Planning Intern
City of Golden Valley
Golden Valley, MN United States
Position Overview
This internship presents a unique opportunity for aspiring urban planners to gain hands-on experience in a progressive city renowned for its commitment to innovation and sustainable development. The Community Development Department plays a crucial role in shaping the city's growth while ensuring we maintain our values of environmental stewardship, social equity, and economic vitality. As a Planning Intern, you will work closely with our seasoned planning professionals and engage in a wide range of projects and initiatives.
Expected Hours of Work
Hours are typically Monday-Friday from 8 am to 4:30 pm. In addition to working office hours, staff may be required to work additional events, which may include nights or weekends. Hours during the school year are flexible and may vary based on the needs of the department.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals to perform these essential functions:
1. Assisting in conducting research and data analysis for various planning projects.
2. Supporting the development and implementation of city plans and zoning ordinances.
3. Evaluating new development proposals for compliance with city codes.
4. Assisting in preparing presentations, reports and meeting materials for city officials and stakeholders.
5. Attend meetings and present to City Boards and Commissions, including Board of Zoning Appeals, Planning Commission, and City Council.
6. Conducting occasional field assessments to evaluate urban development proposals and their compliance with regulations.
7. Improving department materials, including standard operating procedures and process checklists for internal and public use.
8. Assists in research, analysis, review and other related activities in the Planning Division.
9. Work with coworkers and community members, responding to requests for information on City land-use regulations, policies, and programs.
Other Duties
Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.
Supervisory Responsibility
This position does not have employee supervisory responsibilities.
Minimum and Desired Qualifications:
Minimum Qualifications
· Enrolled in or graduated from a post-secondary program in Urban Planning, Urban Studies, Geography, Public Policy, or a related field.
· Strong passion for urban planning and sustainable development practices.
· Excellent analytical, research, and problem-solving skills.
· Strong writing ability and attention to detail in written materials preparation.
· General knowledge of, and interest in, urban planning issues and practice in transportation, land use, environmental, housing, or community engagement planning.
· A valid driver’s license.
· Ability to complete the essential duties and responsibilities of the position with or without reasonable accommodations.
Desired Qualifications
· Currently enrolled in a graduate program related to urban planning.
· Experience working on municipal planning work.
· Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and other relevant planning tools is a plus.
· Exceptional communication and interpersonal abilities, with a focus on teamwork and collaboration.
· General knowledge of, and interest in, GIS concepts and functions, familiarity with ArcGIS, and experience working with large datasets.
· Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines.