Comprehensive Planning Intern

Comprehensive Planning Intern

The Comprehensive Planning Intern works in the City of Raleigh Planning and Development Department. The Intern is a temporary hourly employee of the City of Raleigh. This is a term position without benefits. This is a temporary summer internship designed to provide hands-on, experiential learning through meaningful exposure to departmental operations and opportunities to build professional skills in a public-sector setting. The internship runs from May 18 through August 7, 2026. Interns will work 20–30 hours per week in a hybrid environment, combining virtual work with in-person engagement.

The City of Raleigh Planning and Development Department supports the city’s growth and development through planning, zoning, building safety, urban projects, and business strategy. 

Hiring Range:

$17.85 per hour (undergraduate students)

$21.00 per hour (graduate students)

Duties and Responsibilities

The intent of this job description is to provide a representative summary of the major duties and responsibilities performed by employees in this job. Employees may be requested to perform job-related tasks other than those specifically presented in this description.

 

The Comprehensive Planning Intern will primarily support the development of Raleigh’s Next Comprehensive Plan. There will also be opportunities to work on special projects to support the public engagement and research work of the division. Specific tasks include:

Contributing to policy development by helping convene and facilitate working groups of subject matter experts to develop policies in key areas of the next comprehensive plan.

Supporting public engagement by developing surveys and other engagement tools.

Researching best practices and innovative strategies for capital needs planning, sustainable growth management, and stabilization planning. Supporting implementation of the city’s BRT system through planning projects and city initiated rezoning initiatives.

Through a combination of workshops, mentorship, hands-on projects, and networking opportunities, the intern will develop the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in various roles within the public sector. Students will work closely with experienced municipal government professionals, contribute to important projects and develop valuable skills in public administration. The intern experience includes a staff mentor and broad exposure to a wide range of public planning-related processes, including governing body, board/commission, and internal departmental meetings.

Typical Qualifications

Must be enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate program and a student in good academic standing. Preference for students enrolled in a program leading to a degree in City and Regional Planning, Urban Design, Public Policy, Public Administration, or Communications. No previous office experience required. To perform this job successfully, an individual should have a strong working knowledge of Office Suite software. Knowledge of GIS/Arcview and/or Adobe Creative Suite helpful but not required.

Additional Information

Knowledge of:

Basic understanding of urban planning, public policy, geography, or a related field through academic coursework

General awareness of community planning concepts such as land use, transportation, housing, or environmental planning (introductory level)

Familiarity with how local government departments support community growth and development

Skill in:

Research and analytical skills, including the ability to collect, review, and summarize data or planning-related information

Written and verbal communication skills for preparing reports, memos, or presentation materials

Organizational skills and attention to detail when managing multiple tasks, documents, or project materials

Using Microsoft Office and other standard digital tools effectively

Ability to:

Learn and apply new concepts, tools, and processes with guidance

Manage multiple assignments and meet deadlines in a project-based environment

Work collaboratively with staff, project teams, and community stakeholders

Adapt to changing priorities and contribute positively to a learning-focused work environment