City Manager Intern At — City of Vista
The City Manager’s Office Internship offers students a hands-on opportunity to experience local government operations at the executive level. Interns will work closely with professional staff on projects that support citywide initiatives, policy implementation, and community engagement. This opportunity is ideal for students interested in public administration, public policy, communications, economic development, or community services. Interns may assist with research, data analysis, program coordination, meeting preparation, and public-facing communications while gaining exposure to City Council processes and interdepartmental collaboration. Through meaningful assignments and mentorship, interns will gain insight into how municipal decisions are made and how local government directly impacts residents and businesses. This internship provides practical experience, professional development, and a strong foundation for students considering a career in public service.
By the end of the internship, students will develop a strong understanding of municipal government structure, City Manager–Council relationships, and the role of executive leadership in local government. Students will gain skills in policy research and analysis, professional writing, data collection, and report preparation. Interns may also build experience in project management, stakeholder coordination, public communications, and community engagement strategies. Additional skills include exposure to public meeting processes, agenda development, and collaboration across city departments such as public safety, economic development, and recreation and community services. Students will strengthen critical thinking, organizational, and communication skills while gaining practical insight into careers in public administration and public service leadership.
Students will receive an initial onboarding and orientation during their first week, which will include an overview of the City of Vista’s organizational structure, City Manager’s Office functions, workplace expectations, and relevant policies and procedures. Training will also include project-specific instruction such as research methods, data collection, report writing, use of internal systems, and professional communication standards. When applicable, students will receive training on public meeting procedures, agenda preparation, and records management. Training is primarily hands-on and occurs throughout the internship, with ongoing guidance provided as projects evolve.
Submit a current resume and brief cover letter or statement of interest. Email application materials to the contact listed in the internship posting by the stated deadline. Selected applicants may be invited to interview. Final candidates must complete City onboarding paperwork and pass a background check (Live Scan) prior to starting. A start date and schedule will be coordinated upon clearance.
| Hours | Duration |
|---|---|
| 90 | hours per placement |