Department Goals for Internship:
The San Antonio Parks and Recreation Department has designed and implemented an internship program that provides students with a well-rounded experience which introduces them to all aspects of a diverse and comprehensive parks and recreation program. This provides them with an opportunity to put what they have learned, to work. It is a "hands on" experience that reflects what park and recreation professionals do on the job to ensure the necessary and enhanced services to the community.
Internship Program Goals:
To apply academic and practical experience to a hands-on, real life experience.
To problem solve in a work environment.
To exchange ideas and network with professionals in the field.
To gain pride and appreciation in the field.
To gain competent professional skills.
Guidelines for Internship:
Application:
Please contact the appropriate person listed in the “Contacts” section (bottom of page).
Compensation:
San Antonio Parks and Recreation Department offers paid internships at the rate of $8.75 per hour. We believe that the Department and the student have a partnership. We provide the Intern with the required knowledge and experiences to fulfill the internship standards of the university, while providing a valuable learning experience.
Working Hours:
Interns will be expected to work 35-40 hours per week, which will include evenings and/or weekends.
Dress Code:
Dress will depend on the specific job assignments. When working in the office, professional attire is required. When working in the field, dress will be determined by job duties.
Assignments:
Assignments are based on the Intern's strengths, growth areas and interests. It is the intention of the Intern's supervisor to suggest events that will broaden the learning experience of the Intern. Areas assigned may include the following:
· Administration
· Athletics
· Aquatics
· Recreation Centers
· Cultural Arts
Administration
As a member of Administration, you will provide quality support for all of our programs. Your responsibilities will vary based on the area you are assigned, however, as a member of the team your responsibilities may include:
· Exposure to budget preparations
· Attend departmental meetings
· Research, develop, organize, and implement new programs and/or events
· Review and research policies and procedures
· Market and promote the program and facilities
· Solicit and obtain sponsorships
· Responsible for departmental correspondence
Athletics
The Athletics Section is responsible for the facilitation of more than # softball, basketball, and tennis leagues. Staff members attempt to accommodate the needs of more than # individual user groups. As a member of the Athletics Section your responsibilities may include:
· Create and conduct community needs assessments
· Review, revise, and implement athletic rules and regulations based on current trends
· Monitor and evaluate the operations of adult and youth user groups
· Organize and work tournaments and athletic special events
· Work as a liaison between athletic associations and the department
Aquatics
The Aquatics Section operates 23 outdoor pools and 1 indoor natatorium. As an intern with the Aquatics Section, you will develop an understanding of operating a multi-faceted aquatic section. Your experience may include:
· Exposure to managing pools and an indoor natatorium
· Development of risk management procedures for various facilities
· Plan, fundraise, and implement special events
· Develop and implement public safety programs
· Market and promote programs and facilities
· Obtain and secure sponsorships
· Supervise outdoor pools
· Work six days and weekends during summer months
Recreation Centers/Summer Camp Programming
As a member of the Recreation Centers/Summer Camp Section, you will provide quality programming to youth and adults based on the needs of the community. Your responsibilities will vary based on your location; however, as a member of the section your responsibilities may include:
· Research and develop programs for individuals in surrounding communities
· Exposure to managing a recreation center
· Attend meetings between user groups and the department
· Plan, organize, and implement community programs and/or events
· Learn the concepts of risk management for specified facilities
· Review and research policies and procedures
· Market and promote the program and facilities
· Solicit and secure sponsorships
Intern Responsibilities
The San Antonio Parks and Recreation Department will provide an environment which will give Interns an opportunity to grow as young professionals and learn from other parks and recreation professionals.
The Intern will be responsible to:
· Familiarize them self with the procedures/guidelines for the internship.
· Create goals and objectives for the internship.
· Conduct them self in a professional manner.
· Be timely with all required written communication.
· Communicate effectively with your assigned supervisors.
· Seek opportunities to complement your work and educational experiences.
· Assist parks and recreational staff on projects and assignments.
· Practice excellence in your work.
· Be flexible by working the times and dates assigned to you. You will have to work some evenings and weekends.
· Notify your supervisor in advance of any anticipated absence from work.
· Evaluate each program and meeting you attend and discuss your observations with your supervisor. Be willing to offer new ideas.
· Be appropriately dressed for all assignments.
· Be friendly, courteous and treat everyone in all circumstances with dignity and respect. You are a representative of the City of San Antonio and the Parks and Recreation Department.
· Ask for advice from your supervisor regarding any problems you cannot successfully solve yourself.
· Notify your supervisor of any academic deadlines that must be met, in regards to the internship.
· Become involved in any opportunity presented to you.
· Show initiative and creativity. Offer ideas and suggestions on program improvements.
· Communicate openly, honestly and professionally with all people you come in contact with during your internship.
· When you have free time, use that time to learn more about the operations of the department. Read any manuals, fliers, or brochures that will add to your knowledge of the department.
· Create and implement an administrative project. Discuss your project ideas with both your professor and supervisor to ensure the right direction is taken.
Send comments to kirvin@sanantonio.gov.
For TTY assistance, call 210-207-8480 (V/TTY).