Planning Intern (Part-time, Unpaid)

Planning Intern (Unpaid)

Building and Planning Department Job Type:

At-Will Non-Exempt, Part-time, Seasonal (Summer 2026)

NOTE:

This is a temporary assignment, not to exceed 1,000 hours per fiscal year. First review of applications will take place in two weeks on May 19, 2026. Applications received after this date may still be considered until the position is filled. Under close supervision of the Building and Planning Director, or their designee, the Planning Intern performs entry-level administrative and technical support work in the Building and Planning Department while gaining practical experience in municipal planning functions. Responsibilities may include assisting with planning research, data collection, public counter/customer service, file and records management, and support for housing, code enforcement, and related departmental programs. The Planning Intern may also assist with special projects and other departmental functions as assigned. and performs related duties as required.

SUPERVISION EXERCISED AND RECEIVED

Supervision Received:

Receives general supervision from the Building and Planning Director or designated supervisory staff.

Supervision Exercised:

This position does not exercise formal supervisory responsibilities. As defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act, essential functions may include any of the following representative duties, knowledge, and skills. This is not a comprehensive listing of all functions and duties performed by incumbents of this class; employees may be assigned duties which are not listed below; reasonable accommodation will be made as required. The job description does not constitute an employment agreement and is subject to change at any time by the employer. Essential duties and responsibilities may include, but are not limited to, the following: Assist the public, City staff, and outside agencies by providing basic information related to planning services and assigned program areas; receive office and telephone inquiries and refer complex questions to appropriate staff. Operate standard office equipment including computers, copiers, calculators, and related office technology; utilize planning-related software and applications. Learn the City's development application review process, including application intake procedures and completeness review. Gain familiarity with site plans, topographic maps, landscape plans, architectural drawings, zoning regulations, and City ordinances. Assist planning staff with research activities and the preparation of maps, graphics, and presentation materials. Assist with the preparation of agendas, public notices, and supporting materials for meetings and review boards. Respond to routine public inquiries and assist higher-level planning staff with research related to current and long-range planning activities. Research, collect, compile, and summarize technical data; assist higher level planning staff with projects, including sustainability initiatives such as the Climate Action Plan and preliminary grant research. Assist with Geographic Information System (GIS) activities, including research, data entry, mapping updates, and occasional field/site verification. Assist in maintaining and organizing departmental records and electronic files. Participate in special projects and perform related duties as assigned. The following generally describes the knowledge and ability required to enter the job and/or be learned within a short period of time in order to successfully perform the assigned duties.

Knowledge of:

Modern office practices, procedures, and equipment, including Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint). Basic records management and document organization practices. General customer service and administrative support practices. Basic research methods and information sources related to urban planning and local government operations. Principles of professional communication and public interaction. Basic understanding of planning, zoning, land use, GIS, or public administration concepts is desirable.

Skill in:

Operating standard office equipment such as computers, phones, printers, copiers, and scanners. Communicating effectively and professionally with staff, the public, and outside agencies. Organizing and prioritizing assignments in a fast-paced environment. Preparing and formatting basic correspondence, spreadsheets, reports, and other documents. Maintaining accurate records and organized filing systems, both electronic and physical. Performing detailed work with accuracy and attention to detail. Using basic computer applications and learning new software programs.

Ability to:

Learn and apply planning, zoning, and municipal procedures, policies, and regulations. Read and interpret basic site plans, maps, floor plans, and related planning documents. Conduct research and compile information for reports, presentations, and projects. Establish and maintain effective working relationships with City staff, public officials, consultants, and the general public. Communicate clearly and effectively, both orally and in writing. Manage multiple assignments, adapt to changing priorities, and meet deadlines. Work cooperatively as part of a team and follow direction from supervisory staff. Learn departmental procedures, terminology, and software applications quickly and accurately. Education and Experience Any combination of equivalent education, training and experience that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be: Participation towards an Undergraduate or Graduate Degree, from an accredited College or University, in Urban or Regional Planning, Architecture, Public Administration, Urban/Environmental Studies, or a related field. Prior internship or other relevant experience in a municipal setting is desirable.

Desirable:

Bilingual proficiency in English and Spanish. Frequent standing, sitting, and walking for extended periods. Occasional lifting of items weighing up to 25 pounds. Ability for frequent repetitive motions, including typing and writing. Vision for reading documents and computer screens. Hearing and speaking to interact with others in person and over the phone.