Public Utilities – Asset Management Division (FOG & Backflow) - On-Site Summer 2026 Internship

Intern Sarasota County is proud to be #VaultRanked as one of the Top 150 Internships for 2026!

Department:

Public Utilities

About Our Job

Sarasota County’s Public Utilities Department is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented college intern to support the FOG (Fats, Oils, and Grease) and Backflow Prevention programs within the Asset Management Division. This internship offers a unique opportunity for students pursuing degrees in Environmental Science, Engineering, Public Health, or related fields to gain hands-on experience in municipal utility operations and regulatory compliance.

Job Description:

Are you interested in getting hands-on experience in your chosen field? Do you want to make a difference in your community?

Intern Sarasota County dedicated to providing students with an unsurpassed learning experience and insight into the dynamic world of public sector employment.

Develop new skills you can apply in the workplace. Gain skills that will enhance your resume and increase your career options while exploring public service! Observe and participate in tasks and responsibilities performed daily by skilled professionals. Experience workplace culture, office dynamics, and business etiquette.

Your internship will include impactful hands-on work within a department, networking, professional development, and building long lasting connections with other interns, mentors, and Sarasota County team members.

Department Responsibilities:

• Conduct field inspections of commercial and residential properties for FOG and backflow compliance.
• Assist with residential field surveys to gather data on existing plumbing, backflow devices, and FOG disposal practices.
• Support the issuance of notices of violation for non-compliant residential and commercial properties, following internal protocols.
• Enter inspection data into the County’s asset management software and assist with report generation.
• Participate in public education and outreach efforts to promote best practices for FOG disposal and backflow prevention.
• Generate innovative ideas and strategies to improve public communication and awareness regarding backflow prevention requirements.
• Work alongside asset management staff to review and update records and documentation.
• Answer calls from residents/businesses who have been put on notice and/or have questions.
• Shadow field crews to learn about inspection procedures, equipment usage, and compliance monitoring.

Internship Program Responsibilities:

• A presentation to the County Administrator and other County Leadership staff is required at the close of the internship program on Friday, August 7, 2026.
• Participate in all organized intern events and trainings.

Your Internship Includes: 

• In-person, on-site work!
• Competitive wage 
• Hands-on work experience
• Professional headshot
• 1-1 mentoring with county staff
• Professional Development Events:
  • Civics 101 & Facility Tour
  • Own Your Career
  • Business Etiquette & Professional Networking
  • Philanthropy & Your Career
  • Board of County Commission Public Hearing Session
  • Speaking for Success
• Opportunity to job shadow in other departments

Location: Sarasota Operations Center, 1001 Sarasota Center Boulevard

Learn more about the internship program at: scgov.net/intern

About You

Minimum Qualifications:

• Ages 16-17 with parental consent, or 18 and above.
• Eligible to work in the United States – we love local, national, and international students!
• Active, enrolled student.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Pursuing a degree in Environmental Science, Engineering, Public Health, Communications, or a related field.
• Interest in water/wastewater utilities, public service, or environmental compliance.

About Everything Else

• Program Dates: The 2026 internship program will begin on May 18, 2026 and end on August 7, 2026.  
• Internship Hours: 40 hours/week, Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.; some departments vary. 
• Pay Range: $15 per hour (high school student) up to $20 per hour (Grad/Masters student), based on your credit hours earned.