City Manager Intern At — City of Vista
Gain hands-on experience in local government with the City of Vista’s City Manager’s Office. Students will support projects that serve the community while learning how city departments collaborate, develop programs, and carry out City Council priorities. Responsibilities may include researching municipal programs, organizing and analyzing information, preparing written materials, supporting community outreach, and assisting with administrative projects. Assignments will reflect current department needs and, when possible, the student’s academic interests. This opportunity is ideal for students interested in public administration, political science, communications, business, or a career in public service.
Students will develop an understanding of municipal government operations and the role of the City Manager’s Office. Through supervised assignments, students will strengthen their research, professional writing, communication, organization, and problem-solving skills. They will gain experience compiling information, maintaining spreadsheets, preparing summaries, and supporting projects involving multiple departments. Students will also practice workplace professionalism, time management, attention to detail, and appropriate handling of sensitive information. By the end of the opportunity, students should be better prepared to connect classroom learning with public-sector work and identify potential career paths in local government.
Students will receive an initial orientation during their first week covering City operations, department responsibilities, workplace expectations, confidentiality, technology use, and site safety. Approximately two to four hours will be dedicated to initial orientation, followed by task-specific instruction, staff demonstrations, and guided practice throughout the internship. Staff will provide examples, templates, and feedback before students complete assignments independently.
Prepare a résumé and a brief statement describing your interest in local government, relevant coursework or experience, and learning goals. Submit these materials to [approved application email or application link]. If applying by email, use the subject line “CSUSM Internship Application – City Manager’s Office.” Include your academic program, anticipated semester of participation, required internship hours, and general weekly availability. Selected applicants will be contacted for an interview. Before beginning internship hours, complete all required City onboarding and CSUSM placement documentation.
| Hours | Duration |
|---|---|
| 90 | hours per placement |