Operations Student Intern (9025)

About the role

The Southwest Florida Water Management District (District) seeks an enthusiastic and team-oriented student intern to join the District’s Vegetation Management Section. The District serves a population of nearly 6 million people in west-central Florida and is committed to protecting water resources, minimizing flood risks, and ensuring public water needs are met.

Responsibilities

• Perform field work (surveys and herbicide applications) to assist staff with the management of invasive plant populations on District conservation lands, habitat restoration sites, lakes, rivers, and flood control projects.
• Absorb and apply knowledge about invasive species and available control methods.
• Assist with data management, monitoring, and performance metric programs including GPS, ArcExplorer, ArcMap, Survey 123 mobile application, and other data management programs.
• Function in an office environment and operate equipment such as a personnel computer with standard software programs (Outlook, Word, Excel), copier, etc.
• Operate a four-wheel drive truck and load and operate an ATV and watercraft.
• Bend, reach above shoulder level, and lift up to 30 pounds while hiking long distances through the woods.

Requirements

• High School Diploma (or equivalency)
• Currently enrolled in an accredited college, university, or other recognized educational or vocational program
• Maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5 for undergraduate students or minimum GPA of 3.0 for graduate students
• Valid driver’s license

Qualifications

• Outdoor work experience
• GPS/GIS experience
• Knowledge of invasive species and available control methods
• Excel and technical report writing skills

Skills

• Attention to detail
• Strong organizational skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team

Benefits

• Training and Development: On-site trainings are provided to help staff develop additional skill sets.
• Employee Assistance Program: Confidential assistance and support in various areas of personal and professional well-being.
• Wellness Program: Encourages employees to engage in healthier lifestyle behaviors through various activities and resources.

Pay

$16.00 hourly

Schedule

This position is typically scheduled to work no more than 25 hours per week, two 10-hour days, between Monday to Thursday, from 6:00 AM to 4:30 PM, out of the Brooksville, FL office. Schedule is contingent upon the decision of the hiring manager and the successful candidate.

Additional Details

This position is not eligible for insured medical benefits. Travel is required some travel, using a District vehicle, within the District's coverage area. Applications accepted until August 6, 2026 at 4:00 PM.

About Us

The District is responsible for managing the water resources for west central Florida which includes approximately 10,000 square miles of territory spanning 16 counties and serving more than 6 million residents. Established in 1961 as a flood-protection agency, our objective is to meet the needs of current and future water users, protect and preserve our water resources, manage the water supply, protect water quality, and preserve water-related functions.

Apply Now

Start and grow your career with the District! The District prides itself on providing a positive work environment that engages and supports our employees through flexible and remote work schedules. We provide and support learning and development for staff at all levels including conferences, association memberships, and formal education. Click on the link to apply.