Location
Description
City of Half Moon Bay
Intern – Public Works / Engineering Department
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 40 full-time employees in the following departments: City Manager’s Office, Administrative Services and Finance, Community Development, Public Works, and Communications/ City Clerk. 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 Position
The Public Works Department is seeking a motivated and enthusiastic intern with an interest in engineering, project management, and public service. This internship provides an excellent opportunity to gain experience in local government operations and civil engineering under general supervision and mentorship from professional staff.
The selected intern will assist with a variety of projects and ongoing assignments, which may include but are not limited to:
Assisting with Capital Improvement Program (CIP) projects, including design and construction
Supporting engineering project managers with clerical, administrative, and technical tasks
Researching and analyzing programs and initiatives
Updating internal procedures and policies
Creating and editing CAD maps, designs, and standards (AutoCAD)
Participating in field data collection, investigations, and analysis
Researching development, zoning, and land use-related issues
Performing engineering support services
Drafting and editing reports
Providing customer service
Attending departmental and community meetings
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
Some completed coursework toward an undergraduate degree in Civil Engineering or a related field is desired but not required.
Knowledge of:
Microsoft Office (Excel, Outlook, Word, PowerPoint)
Adobe software (Acrobat, InDesign, Photoshop)
AutoCAD
Local government operations (preferred)
Ability to:
Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing
Work cooperatively with City staff
Perform analytical work and prepare clear, concise reports
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
Why Apply?
Growth: Build skills in writing, research, analysis, presentation, and critical thinking
Training: Gain real-world experience supporting public infrastructure and services
Mentorship: Receive guidance from experienced City staff
Networking: Connect with professionals in local government
Ideal Candidate
The ideal candidate is a motivated and dependable student with a strong interest in public works, engineering, and local government. They are eager to learn, detail-oriented, and able to work both independently and as part of a team. The successful candidate demonstrates strong communication skills, professionalism, and a willingness to take initiative on a variety of tasks and projects. They are comfortable using Microsoft Office and related software, able to learn new systems quickly, and committed to providing high-quality service to the community. An interest in civil engineering, infrastructure, or public service is highly desirable.
Benefits
Temporary Position - No Benefits
Special Instructions
Temporary, seasonal position
No benefits
Interviews anticipated late March / early April