Community Development Intern

Principal Duties

• Develop and complete an independent community development research project on a topic approved by Community Development staff.
• Conduct qualitative and quantitative research related to the selected project.
• Collect information through field observations, interviews, surveys, public records, and other research methods.
• Conduct in-person, telephone, and electronic outreach to community members, stakeholders, organizations, and professionals as appropriate.
• Analyze and interpret research findings and develop conclusions based on collected data.
• Prepare written reports, presentations, policy summaries, or other deliverables related to the selected project.
• Deliver periodic presentations to staff regarding project progress, research findings, and lessons learned.
• Participate in meetings, site visits, and professional development opportunities with Community Development staff and other City departments.
• Meet with local government professionals and subject matter experts to gain exposure to various career paths and areas of municipal service.
• Perform other learning and professional development activities as assigned.

Learning Objectives

• Develop and strengthen technical skills in 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, and project planning and management.
• Develop and strengthen professional and soft skills in 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.

Qualifications

• 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 and Experience

• 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.

Supplemental Information

COMPENSATION: Unpaid
DATES: Fall Semester
HOURS: 20 hours/week
An Equal Opportunity and Military Friendly Employer