Community Development Intern

The Community Development Intern is a qualified undergraduate or graduate student currently enrolled in an Urban Planning, Public Administration, or closely related program. The goal of this internship is to provide the student with a meaningful, hands-on learning experience in community development and municipal government while fostering professional growth, technical skill development, and exposure to real-world planning practice. Unlike traditional internships that focus primarily on supporting departmental projects, this internship is designed around the educational and professional interests of the student. The intern will identify and pursue a community development-related research project of their choosing, with guidance and mentorship provided by Community Development staff throughout the semester. The intern will gain practical experience in planning research, data collection, community engagement, policy analysis, professional communication, and project development. A strong emphasis will be placed on real-world information gathering through direct interaction with community members, professionals, stakeholders, and governmental agencies. Research activities may include conducting in-person or telephone interviews, coordinating outreach efforts through email and other communication methods, collecting field observations, facilitating surveys, and analyzing data relevant to the intern's chosen topic. The internship will also provide opportunities to learn about the broader functions of local government through exposure to multiple City departments and professionals. Based on the intern's interests, staff will coordinate opportunities to meet with subject matter experts and observe the work of departments such as Planning and Development Services, Economic Development, Engineering, Public Works, Parks and Recreation, Neighborhood Services, Code Enforcement, and others. The internship is intended to provide a comprehensive introduction to the operations of local government and the many disciplines that contribute to community development. 1.Develop and complete an independent community development research project on a topic approved by Community Development staff. 2.Conduct qualitative and quantitative research related to the selected project. 3.Collect information through field observations, interviews, surveys, public records, and other research methods. 4.Conduct in-person, telephone, and electronic outreach to community members, stakeholders, organizations, and professionals as appropriate. 5.Analyze and interpret research findings and develop conclusions based on collected data. 6.Prepare written reports, presentations, policy summaries, or other deliverables related to the selected project. 7.Deliver periodic presentations to staff regarding project progress, research findings, and lessons learned. 8.Participate in meetings, site visits, and professional development opportunities with Community Development staff and other City departments. 9.Meet with local government professionals and subject matter experts to gain exposure to various career paths and areas of municipal service. 10.Perform other learning and professional development activities as assigned. Learning Objectives Through this internship, the student will have opportunities to develop and strengthen the following skills: Technical Skills Planning and community development research methods Qualitative and quantitative data collection Survey design and administration Interview techniques and stakeholder engagement Data analysis and interpretation Policy research and evaluation Demographic, housing, economic, and community analysis Professional report writing and presentation development Basis project planning and management Professional and Soft Skills Verbal and written communication Public speaking and presentation skills Interpersonal relationship building Professional networking Stakeholder engagement and public outreach Critical thinking and problem-solving Time management and organization Professional etiquette in a government environment Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams Adaptability and independent learning Local Government Knowledge Municipal Planning and community development practices Roles and responsibilities of local government departments Public policy development and implementation Community engagement and public participation processes Interdepartmental collaboration in local government Career pathways within planning, community development, and municipal administration

Required:

Currently enrolled as an undergraduate or graduate student in Urban Planning, Public Administration, or closely related program. Interest in community development, housing, land use planning, public policy, or local government. Strong written and verbal communications skills. Ability to conduct research and synthesize information from multiple sources. Ability to interact professionally with community members, stakeholders, and staff. Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, and Power Point. Ability to work independently while receiving mentorship and guidance. Excellent interpersonal, organizational, and time management skills.

Preferred:

Coursework in community development, housing, land use planning, urban policy, economic development, or public participation. Experience conducting research, surveys, interviews, or data analysis. Familiarity with GIS software (ArcGIS or QGIS). Interest in local government, public service, community engagement, and civic leadership.

COMPENSATION

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Unpaid DATES :

Fall Semester HOURS :

20 hours/week