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. 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. The City telework policy allows remote work up to 60% time.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities required to be successful are:

• 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.

Minimum requirements include:

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.

Preferred candidates may possess the following:

• Foreign language skills (specifically Spanish, French, or Amharic);
• 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).

The hourly wage for this position is expected to be between $17.00 and $19.00 per hour and will be offered at a level consistent with the experience and qualifications of the candidate. The City telework policy allows remote work up to 60% time.

In addition to a resume that includes prior work experience and/or education, please provide a cover letter that includes an explanation of why you are interested in the position, as well as a two-page writing sample, a sample of your GIS work, and your university transcript (an unofficial transcript is acceptable) which can be uploaded under “documents” in the application. Submissions without these documents will not be considered. Additional documents (design portfolio, map products, etc.) may also be submitted.

A first review of applications is expected to begin on May 10, 2023, and job will remain open until filled.

Please note that COVID vaccinations are now mandatory for all City staff, and will be confirmed with other pre-employment screenings once an offer has been extended.

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 population of 17,000 residents, Takoma Park is known for its progressive policies, historic tree-lined neighborhoods, independent businesses, and a rich arts community. We are proud to be a workforce of almost 200 full-time and part-time employees that are as diverse as the community we serve. We strive to maintain excellent customer service and responsiveness to our residents and everyone we work with. It is with this in mind that we seek to improve by championing quality and efficiency through a dedicated workforce and cooperative spirit.

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.