First round of application review will be on May 17, 2024. The position may close on or after that date.

The Planning Intern will shadow staff at all levels and receive exposure to municipal government projects, programs, and development applications and processes, and gain invaluable experience in zoning compliance, procedures, data gathering, and more as it relates to planning. This position is designed to provide hands on training that cannot be gained from within a traditional classroom setting, previous incumbents have used this experience to advance their careers in City Planning. The ideal candidate is currently enrolled in coursework related to Urban Planning or a related field and has an enthusiasm for learning and being part of a team focused on their personal success and professional growth, as well as those we serve!

Under general supervision, performs entry level professional and technical planning and zoning work in support of the Planning Division and staff, and related projects; and performs other related duties as assigned.

The Planning Intern is a part-time hourly/non-exempt position that performs varied para-professional and administrative functions as part of the learning experience in conjunction with educational coursework leading to an advanced degree related to Planning and Urban Development.

Examples of Duties:

The duties listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to this position.

1. Assists customers at the counter and on the phone with zoning related questions.
2. Helps Planners prepare agenda packets for various Boards, Planning Commission and City Council meetings and presentations.
3. Reviews staff level project documents to ensure that proposed actions comply with City requirements such as patios, pools, decks, and small room additions.
4. Assists staff in collecting and preparing data for various planning projects.
5. Interfaces with other departments and outside agencies in collecting and reporting information for surveys and reports.
6. Prepares maps, graphs, charts and other visual aids to illustrate planning studies.
7. Prepares Zoning Compliance Verification Letters.
8. Reviews and approves Tree Removal Permits given compliance with City standards.
9. Performs data entry, file archiving, and basic office support functions.
10. Utilizes office software for various technical planning projects and studies.
11. Completes field investigations and inspections and writes report findings.

Typical Qualifications:

Knowledge of:

General principles and practices of planning and zoning; general functions, operations, and objectives of municipal government; research methods; correct English usage, spelling, grammar, and punctuation; filing and record keeping procedures.

Ability to:

Conduct research and prepare a variety of statistical, administrative, or operational reports and summaries; establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with City staff and members of the community; communicate clearly and concisely, orally and in writing; organize tasks to meet deadlines; utilize word processing, spreadsheet, GIS, and records management software; operate standard office equipment and computer hardware.

Education/Training/Experience:

Any combination equivalent to experience and education that could likely provide the required knowledge and abilities. A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be:

Education: Equivalent to high school graduation and current enrollment in an academic program leading to the attainment of a Bachelor's degree or Master's degree in Urban Planning, Architecture, Public Policy, Geography, or a related field.

Experience: Prior planning intern work experience is desirable, but not required.

Licenses; Certificates; Special Requirements: Valid Class C California driver's license, acceptable driving record, and proof of insurance in compliance with the City's Vehicle Insurance Policy standards.