THE TERI VOCATIONAL INTERNSHIP PROGRAM
Our Vocational Internship Program (VIP) is a wonderful opportunity for adults with special needs to acquire the skills needed for a job within the community. Training lasts about 6 months - 1 year and during that time, students work directly with a TERI Job Coach both in the classroom and on-the-job. The result? Marketable skills, independence and empowerment, lifelong friendships, and a thriving future.
Keep in mind, that you must be a Regional Center client to participate in the Internship Program or have the ability to pay for the program fees, and be at least 18 years old.
What training is available?
Currently we offer skills training in our equestrian program, commercial kitchen, agriculture, and as a Direct Support Aide in our adult day program. As the program grows, we continue to add new skills to our list. Please click here to view the job descriptions.
What is the training commitment?
Training is Monday-Friday, 3 hours a day. Mondays, students are in the classroom learning about job related behaviors. The rest of the week, students and their Job Coach will be honing their skills on the job in their chosen business.
Will I get paid while I'm taking my training?
Yes, you’ll receive minimum wage.
Where will training take place?
Classroom training is held at our TERI Campus of Life in San Marcos, CA at the Tom & Mary Tomlinson Vocational Building. Your on-the-job training will be held at a relevant North San Diego County business or at one of TERI’s on campus businesses.
Will you help me get a job when I complete my training?
Your Regional Center case manager will connect you with agencies that can help you get a job. Also, once you complete your training, you’ll receive a TERI Certificate of Completion listing your skills and a letter of recommendation that you can show employers. And that's not all. During the last two months of your internship, we will train you on job search soft skills to successfully look for a job.
Intern Job Descriptions
The Therapeutic Riding Program Assistant
This position is responsible for supporting the Director of the Equestrian Program in providing care and assistance for individuals participating in therapeutic riding lessons. Key responsibilities include maintaining the stables, caring for horses and small animals, and ensuring the overall safety and upkeep of the program facilities. This role involves hands-on work with horses, such as haltering, leading, and administering therapeutic massages to both mini and larger horses. Additional duties include stable management, the use of equipment like the Gator Tractor to maintain the riding arena, and performing routine cleaning and repairs. The assistant will also play a vital role in supporting clients during riding lessons, leading horses and providing side-walking assistance to ensure a safe and supportive environment. Strong communication skills and attention to safety are essential. This position does not involve supervisory responsibilities, but requires a high level of independence and reliability in performing daily tasks.
Urban Farmer Intern
This position is responsible for maintaining and enhancing the health and productivity of TERI's organic Urban Farms and residential gardens. This role ensures the growth of local, organic food for TERI residents and the surrounding community. The intern will collaborate with TERI staff, students from the Center for the Arts and Education (CAAE), and other TERI-related programs to foster a sustainable urban farming system. Key tasks include seeding, planting, harvesting, and distributing produce, as well as supporting the microgreens business through seeding, trimming, packaging, and inventory management. In addition to farm maintenance, the intern will assist with irrigation installation and repair, soil preparation, pest control, composting, and tree care. They will also provide brief demonstrations for public and staff engagement as needed. This position offers a hands-on opportunity to develop sustainable agricultural practices while working alongside a collaborative team. There are no supervisory responsibilities associated with this internship.
Culinary Kitchen Assistant
This position supports the café by preparing baked goods, assisting line cooks with food preparation, and maintaining a well-organized kitchen. This role involves collaborating with kitchen staff to ensure timely food preparation, packaging, and restocking supplies. The assistant will also be responsible for daily baking tasks, delivering food to customers, and safely handling sharp kitchen tools. Strong communication skills and attention to detail are essential for maintaining cleanliness and adhering to food safety standards. Additional duties include washing and storing utensils, managing waste disposal, and properly storing ingredients. The Culinary Kitchen Assistant will receive training to obtain a food handler's license and participate in staff meetings and soft skills training. This internship provides a hands-on opportunity to develop essential kitchen and culinary skills. There are no supervisory responsibilities for this position.
Barista
This position is responsible for delivering excellent customer service while preparing and serving beverages, such as coffee and tea, as well as light food items like sandwiches, muffins, and baked goods. The role includes welcoming customers, providing information on menu items, taking orders and payments, and ensuring timely food and beverage preparation. The intern will also assist in packaging food for sale, grinding and brewing coffee, and preparing blended beverages and smoothies. Additional duties include restocking inventory, cleaning and sanitizing the workspace, and adhering to food safety standards. The intern will gain knowledge of brewing techniques, food preparation, and customer service skills while working as part of a dynamic, high-energy team. No supervisory responsibilities are involved, but the position requires obtaining a California Responsible Beverage Service Training Certificate and a San Diego County Food Handlers Card. Strong communication, basic math skills, and cash-handling accuracy are essential for success in this role.
Facilities Care Intern
This position is responsible for maintaining cleanliness and order in various facilities, including The Center for Arts, Vocational Building, restrooms, and common areas. Key duties include daily cleaning tasks such as sweeping, mopping, dusting, and sanitizing restrooms. The intern will also be responsible for restocking supplies, emptying trash, cleaning windows, and maintaining floors. Additional responsibilities include reporting maintenance needs, assisting with event setup, and ensuring the proper use and upkeep of cleaning equipment. This role requires following safety protocols and handling cleaning chemicals appropriately. There are no supervisory responsibilities for this position.
Center for the Arts Administrative Assistant Intern
This position provides essential support to the office or department by performing a variety of clerical and administrative tasks. Key responsibilities include managing communications, scheduling appointments, handling correspondence, and maintaining organized filing systems. The ideal candidate is organized, detail-oriented, and able to multitask effectively in a fast-paced environment. Duties include scheduling and coordinating meetings, distributing information to staff, greeting and assisting visitors, and managing office supplies. The intern will also handle incoming and outgoing mail, scan documents, perform data entry, and maintain databases. Confidentiality and professionalism are required for handling sensitive information. No supervisory responsibilities are associated with this position. Basic skills in Microsoft Word and Excel are necessary.