Planning Intern

The City of Takoma Park is looking for a Planning Intern seeking experience in community planning, transportation planning, GIS-mapping, public outreach, and more.

The City of Takoma Park is a small jurisdiction in Montgomery County, Maryland bordering the District of Columbia and Prince George’s County. Inhabited by a diverse and politically active citizenry, Takoma Park is known for its progressive housing and environmental policies, historic, tree-lined neighborhoods, independent businesses, and rich arts community.Our planning staff is small and interns play an important role in the City’s efforts to improve the quality of life for its residents and take the lead on projects. City government offices are located in the Takoma Park Community Center, at 7500 Maple Avenue – a ten-minute walk from the Takoma Metro Station, on multiple bus lines, and accessible by bike and Capital Bikeshare.

The Planning Internship opportunity is open for qualified candidates, 30-40 hours/week, up to 12 months. Pay is $18-$20 per hour. The City telework policy allows for pre-approved remote work up to 60% time.

Minimum Qualifications

* Graduated with a master’s degree within the past two years, or currently enrolled in a graduate program in urban and regional planning, community planning, architecture, urban design, urban studies, economics, real estate development, geography, or another related field; or comparable work experience;

* A strong interest in active transportation, equitable community development, smart growth, or inclusive public space planning;

* Flexibility and desire to work on a wide range of planning projects, as needed;

* Experience interfacing with public constituents in diverse communities;

* Basic proficiency with data management software such as Microsoft Office, Google Suite, or Seamless Docs;

* Proficiency with design software such as Adobe Creative Suite or Canva;

* Proficiency with GIS mapping software such as ArcGIS Pro, ArcGIS Online, or R;

* Strong writing, digital communication, and interpersonal skills;

* Self-motivated, problem solver, organized, and able to work with minimal supervision.

Preferred Additional Skills

* Foreign language proficiency (especially Spanish, Amharic, or French);

* Demonstrated knowledge of equitable outreach and engagement principles and practices;

* Advanced proficiency with design software such as Adobe Creative Suite or Canva;

* Advanced proficiency with GIS mapping software such as ArcGIS Pro, ArcGIS Online, or R;

* Valid U.S. driver’s license (and comfort driving a municipal vehicle).

Please include the following with your submission:

* Cover Letter

* Resume

* University transcript (an unofficial transcript is acceptable)

* Two-page writing sample (may include excerpts written in different styles)

* Sample of GIS work

Upload under “Documents.” Submissions without these documents will not be considered. Additional documents (design portfolio, map products, etc.) may also be submitted.

The City of Takoma Park is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We strive to be a diverse workforce that is representative of the residents we serve and the area in which we live. We are dedicated to creating an inclusive environment where employees of diverse backgrounds can thrive and make a positive impact in the services we provide.