Transportation Systems Intern

Process & Timeline Applications will be accepted until 11:59 PM, March 29, 2026

Application Review & Selection Process:

April - May 2026 Internship start date is Monday, June 15, 2026. Internship end date is Friday, August, 21, 2026. Application Limit To ensure a timely and thorough review process, this posting will close after the first 50 applications received, or on the posted closing date of March 29th, whichever occurs first. Applicants are encouraged to apply early, as the posting may close without notice once the cap is reached. Compensation — Varies based on education level Enrolled as a freshman or sophomore in a college or university: $19.57/hour Enrolled as a junior or senior in a college or university: $21.17/hour Enrolled in a graduate program: $24.77/hour About This Opportunity Are you curious about how technology, data, and innovative thinking can transform the way people move through a city? The City of Hillsboro Transportation Systems Division is offering a unique summer internship opportunity for a motivated student interested in the future of transportation. This internship provides the opportunity to support three innovative transportation research and development initiatives currently underway in Hillsboro. You will gain hands-on experience analyzing transportation data, collaborating with regional partners, and contributing to projects that explore emerging technologies, travel behavior, and community-focused transportation planning. What You Will Be Doing The City's Transportation Systems Division is currently working on three unique research and development projects and we need your help!

The projects are:

Smart 185th . The City, along with our partners at Washington County and TriMet, are currently designing an intelligent AI-powered interconnected traffic and rail controller system for the intersection of SW 185th Avenue and W Baseline Road. The system will be the first of its kind in Oregon and this position will play a key role in the system's initial programming and development. Hillsboro Commuter Transportation Needs Assessment. The City, along with our partners at the Westside Transportation Alliance and Washington County, are currently conducted a multi-year transportation needs assessment and travel market survey for people who either live and work in Hillsboro or travel to Hillsboro to work. The goal of the study is to identify historically underserved communities, their travel patterns and propensity to use alternate modes. Hillsboro Summer Parkways. Three City Departments (Community Development, Public Works and Parks and Recreation) are currently evaluating the possibility of holding a community summer bike riding event similar to Portland's Summer Parkways. The goal of this effort is to develop the plans and specifications needed to hold the event in late summer 2026. For full job classification details, click here: Intern Key Responsibilities This internship is research-focused and will involve a combination of data analysis, field observation, and collaboration with project partners.

Typical responsibilities may include:

Evaluate video and traffic count data collected in the field; Find and report on the root causes of travel delay in a corridor; Attend meetings of multi-agency project leaders and take notes; Use GPS-based evaluation tools (like Placer AI) to identify travel markets and commuter travel patterns; Assist in planning and developing the required information and requirements for a community-wide bike riding event; Perform additional field work or survey work as required; and Prepare a summary report and write recommendations for each of the projects above. Ideal Candidate The ideal candidate is curious, analytical, and excited about exploring the future of transportation systems and technology.

Successful candidates will demonstrate:

Interest or curiosity in artificial intelligence, machine learning, traffic signals, remote sensing, computer programming, AI and its implementation. Strong interest and curiosity in analyzing in Big Data and distilling a large volume of information down into manageable pieces. Enthusiasm for working on innovative transportation research projects in collaboration with our partners at Washington County, TriMet, and the Westside Transportation Alliance Experience using spreadsheets and basic data analysis tools; familiarity with video editing is a plus Interest in promoting alternative modes and working with local community-based non-profit organizations. Minimum Requirements Current enrollment in an undergraduate or graduate program in Traffic Engineering, Transportation Planning, Community Development, Geography, Public Administration , or a related field Valid driver's license and safe driving record Ability to successfully complete a criminal background check Must have basic computer skills; experience with traffic simulation software desired but not required. Commitment to Equity Hiring a workforce that reflects the diverse community we serve is essential to delivering exceptional City services and programs. The City of Hillsboro is committed to creating and supporting an inclusive and welcoming environment where employees can thrive and contribute their unique perspectives. Application Guidelines To ensure full consideration, complete all sections of the online application thoroughly. Resumes and cover letters will not be accepted in place of the application. Include detailed information about your work experience, education, and qualifications directly in the application. Answer all supplemental questions thoughtfully and completely, as they help the hiring manager evaluate how your background aligns with the position. Incomplete applications will not be accepted. Only Veterans' Preference documents or position specific documents (if applicable) will be reviewed as attachments.