SMU- Life After Ball Internship

The City of University Park offers an exciting opportunity to SMU students looking to grow their professional resume. If you are interested in a rewarding and challenging public service career, this is an excellent opportunity to work in a municipal government atmosphere. The program is designed to attract, develop and retain talented individuals with an interest in a municipal government. This program gives selected participants the opportunity to observe firsthand efforts of a city government with the primary focus of serving the residents of University Park. 

Position Purpose
This internship allows a college student who is currently participating in the Life After Ball program with SMU to attain experience and develop skills in a municipal government and to acquire a working knowledge of standards and procedures for professional growth and development.
    
Internship Focus Areas
Depending on the interest of students and the needs of the City, the primary focus for the Internship may be in the following areas.
•    Parks and Recreation
•    Engineering & Public Works
•    Communications & Marketing
•    Human Resources 
•    Library

Requirements 
Students must be currently enrolled at Southern Methodist University and part of the Life After Ball internship program. The candidate should have the ability to manage time effectively and have strong interpersonal and communication skills. Candidate should possess the ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously. Individuals may also be required to have valid driver’s license and reliable transportation. Eligibility to work in the United States is required.   The City is does not have the ability to sponsor work visas. 

Special Requirements
Meet all college/university requirements
Meet all City of University Park employment eligibility requirements which includes a background check and drug screen.


Interns will have various assignments learning the day to day operations of a department such as Parks and Recreation, Engineering & Public Works, Communications & Marketing, Library or Human Resources and will spend time in other departments assisting/learning how the remainder of the municipality operates. Interns will assist in implementing a special events or projects as seen fit by the Manager/Supervisor. 
 
Examples of Internship responsibilities, depending on assignment:

• Collect, compile and analyze data from various sources for a variety of topics related to assigned projects.
• Assist professional staff with development, implementation, evaluation and improvement of new and existing programs by providing administrative support for completion of special projects.
• May conduct surveys related to assigned area and analyze and prepare data for presentation.
• Attend meetings related to assigned projects which may include City Council meetings, planning sessions, staff meetings, committee meetings to observe the decision-making process in municipal government.
• Prepare reports, presentations or communication materials regarding the status or completion of assigned projects by describing current issues, identifying appropriate method to address issues, researching applicable data, analyzing and interpreting data, and providing recommendations.
• May interact with residents and respond to requests for information electronically or in person.

 
 If assigned to Parks and Recreation, responsibilities also may include:

• Planning, organizing, implementing, and follow-up of a special project or event that is unique to each intern that benefits the Parks and Recreation Department.
• Assists with the promotion of programs and activities to inform the community of available recreational resources and maximize participation.
• Provides information to participants, and the public regarding the various functions of the department including the variety of programs and classes offered for the benefit of the community.
• Determines types of programs to offer, target groups, and resources required by using written and electronic surveys to ensure the needs of citizens are met.
• Serves as liaison to community, educational, and civic groups, and social service agencies by attending meetings and coordinating collaborative events and activities to promote programs and allow for cooperative efforts.

 
If assigned to Engineering & Public Works, responsibilities also may include:

• Participates in field site visits for inspection of construction projects, installation of City infrastructure and/or data gathering.
• Assists in construction plan review for Capital Improvements Projects.
• Provides support to staff in construction management activities, including shop drawing review and contractor requests for information.
• Assists in data gathering and data entry for asset management and GIS purposes.
• Prepares exhibits, drawings, maps, and notes for presentations.
• Implements project documentation and filing strategies.

 
General Expectations

• Adhere to policies and rules of both the school and the agency
• Complete school and agency assignments on time
• Dress appropriately and professionally for work assignments
• Attend all required meetings and at least one staff, board, and City Council meeting
• Meet with agency supervisor weekly to discuss progress
• Be proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, Publisher, etc. as well as other software including but not limited to photo editing and website management 
• Regular, consistent in-person attendance for the assigned work schedule is required 
• Depending on assignment, may be required to lift at least 50 pounds and carry at least 30 yards 
• Depending on assignment, may be required to work in a variety of weather conditions which will include extreme heat for an extended period of time, rain, and high humidity levels
• Ability to effectively communicate verbally and in writing with supervisors, staff and customers
• Ability to work effectively individually or as part of a team

Salary : $25