City of Half Moon Bay
Economic and Community Vitality Division Internship
Part - Time
Hourly Pay: $23.15 - $25.53
About the City
The City of Half Moon Bay is a Bay Area coastal community of approximately 12,500 residents and is located 25 miles south of San Francisco. The City is governed by a five-member elected City Council and utilizes the council-manager form of government. The City Council appoints a City Manager who is responsible for the oversight of daily operations and provides leadership for the City’s programs. The City currently employs 37 full-time employees in the following departments: City Manager’s Office, Administrative Services and Finance, Community Development, and Public Works. The City also contracts Public Safety with San Mateo County Sheriff's Department.
The City and surrounding Coastside are a thriving agricultural, fishing, tourism, and recreational destination. There is a rich culture of diverse traditions and multi-generational families who have lived in Half Moon Bay for well over 100 years. In any given neighborhood you will find farmers, high-tech entrepreneurs, and artists living together.
About the Economic and Community Vitality Division
The Economic and Community Vitality Division represents an important evolution of the City's structure to advance strategies that lead to a more equitable, vibrant, and resilient economy and community. This division responds to economic challenges by supporting innovation and job creation, expanding higher education and vocational programs, revitalizing commercial and community spaces, helping small businesses and nonprofits thrive, and using the region's abundance of natural assets (including our agricultural lands) to drive economic growth. The division leads the City's efforts to engage with the community, through programs and initiatives that provide support and information, create connections, promote equity, and enrich lives.
The Economic and Community Vitality Division works with a diverse array of communities and stakeholders, including government, labor, community-based organizations, industry, academia, research institutions, philanthropy, and nonprofits. The division also adheres to values of diversity, equity, and inclusion and ensures the needs of the most vulnerable are addressed including youth, immigrants, farmworkers, low-income residents, seniors, members of the LGBQ community and others.
About the Position
The City is seeking a motivated and community-oriented Intern to support the Economic and Community Vitality Division. This position offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in public service, economic development, and community engagement while contributing to meaningful City initiatives.
The ideal candidate is a self-starter with strong analytical, communication, and organizational skills who is interested in public sector work and making a positive impact in diverse communities.
Under supervision, you may assist with:
Supporting economic development and community service initiatives, including research, planning, and implementation
Conducting research and analysis on programs, policies, and community needs
Collecting, tracking, and analyzing data to support projects and inform decision making
Assisting in the preparation of reports, presentations, and recommendations
Supporting grant related work, including research, tracking, and basic administration
Participating in community engagement and outreach efforts with diverse stakeholders
Assisting with coordination of department projects and events
Attending departmental and community meetings, taking notes, and preparing summaries
Responding to public inquiries and supporting customer service efforts
Collaborating with staff across departments and with external partners
Providing general administrative and project support as needed
Opportunity to present a report to the City Council
Minimum Qualifications
Any combination of education and experience that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying.
Education & Experience
Previous internship, volunteer, academic, or part-time work experience is desirable but not required
Interest or exposure to economic development, community services, public policy, or local government is a plus
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing
Ability to work collaboratively with City staff
Basic research and data analysis skills
Use tact and discretion in public and professional interactions
Plan, organize, and complete projects on time
Interpret and apply administrative and departmental policies
Uphold the City’s organizational mission
Conduct oneself professionally at all times
Proficiency in Microsoft Office or similar tools
Understand diversity, equity, and inclusion principles
Why Apply?
Growth: Build skills in writing, research, analysis, presentation, and critical thinking
Training: Gain real-world experience supporting economic and community challenges
Mentorship: Receive guidance from experienced City staff
Networking: Connect with professionals in local government
