Career Pathfinder
What will participants gain?
By participating in the Pathfinder Program, individuals will gain:
- Career Path Options – Identify career paths in public service that align with your academic major or skilled trade.
- Apply What You’ve Learned & Gain Practical Experience – Put academic knowledge or basic trade skills into action.
- Mentorship & Guidance – Learn from experienced professionals who can provide insight and advice.
- Workforce Readiness – Build the foundational skills and confidence needed to enter the public-sector workforce.
Internships
Pathfinder internships bridge academic learning with real-world experience in local government over the course of one semester. Our internships offer students the opportunity to apply their knowledge and skills in a professional setting, gain valuable insight into the functions of local government, and explore public service careers.
Internship opportunities will vary by semester, depending on needs of Frederick County Government and may be paid or for academic credit. Students will need to coordinate with their academic institution to ensure internship alignment and the required number of hours are met.
Minimum Requirements:
- Currently enrolled in an accredited college or university (including community colleges) pursuing a degree, continuing education, or certification.
- Cumulative GPA of 2.7 or higher. Transcripts will be required as proof of GPA.
Application Periods:
- Spring Semester: January to May—Apply November
- Fall Semester: August to December — Apply July
Current Job and Internship Opportunities
Pathfinder opportunities require applicants to submit an application directly through the GovernmentJobs platform. Please note that candidates will only be considered if they apply directly to the posted announcement. Below is a list of all current job openings with Frederick County Government. If an internship is available, it will also appear in this list.
Stay connected with Frederick County Government!
Don't miss a Pathfinder Internship Opportunity!
By filling out our Job Interest Card and selecting the Internship job category option, you will be automatically alerted each time we post an opportunity for up to 1 year.
Job Shadowing
Job shadowing provides career explorers with short-term, observational experience designed to introduce them to specific career fields within Frederick County Government. These experiences allow individuals to visit professionals in the workplace, observe daily operations, and ask questions to gain a deeper understanding of various roles and industries, making it an ideal tool for early career exploration and community outreach. Interested in job shadowing? Please contact recruitment@frederickcountymd.gov with your name and area of interest you would like to explore by job shadowing.
COMING SOON! Registered Apprenticeship- Maryland Apprenticeship and Training Program (MATP)
To strengthen our workforce pipeline, future expansion of this program is anticipated to include registered apprenticeship opportunities through the Maryland Apprenticeship and Training Program (MATP), offering students pathways to careers in public works, facilities maintenance, and technical services, essential roles that keep our community running. Registered Apprenticeships combine paid, hands-on experience with related classroom instruction, providing a proven pathway for skill development and career growth.