Community Planning Intern


Employer
Douglas County
Douglasville, Georgia

Description
This position will be working in the Planning and Zoning Department. The successful candidate will undertake areas of research and policy development that support the recommendations of the County’s Comprehensive Plan and align with the priorities of the County’s Strategic Plan. The following four areas will be the focus of the internship. Based on the skills and interest of the successful candidate, the county is flexible to allow them to make a deep dive into one or two focus areas, or to explore all focus areas as a part of their professional development.

The Community Planning Intern will undertake areas of research and policy development that support the recommendations of the Comprehensive Plan. The following four areas will be the focus of the internship.

  • Economic and Workforce Development -This will include a review of policies and ordinances of the Planning & Zoning/ Occupational Tax Departments to identify opportunities to align the delivery of business licenses and other permits.
  • Greenspace and Trails -The Comprehensive Plan Update will identify opportunities to connect local greenspaces through a network of trails and other modes. This will include opportunities to identify natural and cultural landmarks within greenspaces and along trails that provide scenic and educational experiences to potential users, as well as historic and cultural elements that lend themselves to a narrative storytelling experience which enhances the development of the greenspace and trail network beyond its use for transportation and recreation.
  • Arts and Creative Placemaking – This will include a research initiative to identify policies and programs that will further arts, culture and creative placemaking for Douglas County.
  • Housing – Douglas County is undertaking a community wide housing survey as a part of the Comprehensive Plan Update. Based on the findings of the housing survey, the county will compare results with the 2017 Housing Study and the Metro Atlanta Housing Strategy to determine where improvement is needed in the delivery of housing.

Based on the skills and interest of the successful candidate, the county is flexible to allow them to make a deep dive into one or two focus areas, or to explore all focus areas as a part of their professional development

Through day-to-day assignments and by shadowing team members, the intern will be exposed to a wide range of activities within both the public and private sectors related to planning, zoning, ordinances, policies, site plan review, code enforcement, short- and long-range planning and demographic and statistical compilation.

Job Requirements

  • Strong computer and internet skills (Microsoft Office, internet research, email, social media etc.)
  • Experience with Adobe In Design or ArcGIS is a plus, but not required
  • Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality work product
  • A well-developed interest and/or passion for government or politics
  • Professional comportment appropriate to an office setting is expected; this position may regularly interact with members of the public and should be able to satisfy basic customer service expectations
  • Recent college graduates may be selected for an internship provided they can provide proof that their graduation was within six months of the start date of the internship; High school students who are dually enrolled in a college program and are 16 years of age or older may also participate
  • Available to intern 15 – 20 hours per week
  • Possess and maintain a valid Georgia Driver’s License (Class C) and a satisfactory motor vehicle record (MVR) and the ability and willingness to drive a county vehicle; if assigned job duties require the use of a vehicle

Salary & Benefits
Temporary, Part Time (20 – 28 hours per week, 200 hours total)

Work hours Monday – Friday during normal business hours. You may serve as a Summer Intern for no longer than a two year period.

$15.00 Hourly; no benefits

How to Apply

Apply Online

Resumes may be attached, but a resume without a completed application will not be considered.

The recruitment, selection, appointment and promotion of employees shall be in such a manner as to promote equal employment for all persons without regard to race, age, color, creed, religion, ancestry, sex, national origin, physical handicap or political affiliation.