Summary 

The Planning Intern will support the work of the Community Planning and Development (CPD) Department by performing research on policies, programs and assisting in the implementation of projects. Individuals in this position should have a strong interest and/or experience in urban planning and a desire to learn more about local government general functions.

The City is in the process of a periodic update for the comprehensive plan and is initiating work to update housing and transportation regulations to help streamline affordable housing. The individual in this position will provide input and support for these projects. In addition, individuals may be asked to perform additional analysis and general support of ongoing department projects including, but not limited to: development review, housing policies and regulations, light rail planning , comprehensive plan and land use code updates, and impact and mitigation fee updates.

Position Details

The Planning Intern will be part of the Long Range Planning Division and will report to the Long Range Planning Manager. On occasion, the individual in this position will receive direction from Senior Planners or Associate Planners to support various department projects or the development review process.

This is a hybrid position which will allow work to be performed remotely with regular in-person meetings with staff, evening meetings, public engagement events and other activities as determined by the Long Range Planning Manager. During the academic year, it is desired the planning intern work approximately 15-20 hours per week. During the summer months, there may be a possibility of working more than 20 hours per week. This is a part-time, one-year long internship, with the potential to extend pending budget.

2024 Undergraduate-Level Intern pay range: $20 – $23 / hr.

2024 Graduate-Level Intern pay range: $24 – $25 / hr.

Equity Statement

The City of Issaquah strives to be a diverse workforce that is representative of the community we serve. We value a variety of perspectives and life experiences and encourage people of all backgrounds to apply. Applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, color, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, religion, national origin, marital status, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other protected status under federal, state and local laws. We believe diversity and inclusion among our teammates is critical to the success of our City operations.

• Conduct program and project research. Research policy and operational issues, identify best practices, compile, and prepare reports and make recommendations.

• Support the development review process with occasional review of land use applications and draft policy and code amendments.

• Coordinate and implement outreach and education materials and campaigns. Conduct outreach virtually and/or at community events and other public venues if conditions allow.

• Support program logistics and performs administrative duties to support the Planning Policy Commission and the Development Commission.

• Provide information and education/technical assistance to other City departments, businesses, community members or agencies upon request from supervisor.

• May perform tasks in long range planning, current planning, or both as assigned.

• Must have a passion for urban planning and an interest in exploring innovative practices for transportation, land use, and housing.

• Currently enrolled or recent graduate of an accredited college undergraduate or post-baccalaureate degree program with a focus on planning and urban studies, geography, civil engineering, public administration, or a related field.

• Must be residing in Washington State during the time of the internship.

• Ability to communicate clearly, both verbally and in writing.

• Ability to work with diverse populations in a positive, professional and courteous manner.

• Ability to work independently and remotely as well as support a collaborative team environment with common goals.

• Desire to engage community members and explore studies, plans and other related projects.

• Outstanding organizational skills, including ability to outline and schedule tasks, set deadlines, anticipate issues and needs, work in a timely fashion, communicate regularly and track progress.

• Knowledge of common office equipment and computer software applications e.g., Microsoft suite: Word, Excel, and Outlook and the ability to learn new software for various projects.

• Familiarity with GIS software, database design, and data editing.

• Ability to lift 30 pounds and work in outdoor environment involving tables, tents, chairs and stairs.