Planning Intern

City of Peoria; United States; On-site; USD 17,000 - 25,000; Part time

Job summary

The City of Peoria offers a part-time Planning Internship for students pursuing Urban and Regional Planning or related fields. The role emphasizes research, data collection, and public outreach in city planning projects.

You will assist with maps, reporting, and general plan updates while gaining real-world public sector experience. Applicants should be enrolled in an accredited program and prepared to work up to twenty hours per week.

Qualifications

• Enrollment in a related program and completion of at least one year of coursework.
• Knowledge of land use planning basics and public policy impacts.
• Proficiency with MS Office and GIS software.
• Strong written and oral communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and in a team setting.
• Willingness to work up to 20 hours per week.

Responsibilities

• Provide research, technical assistance, organization, and writing support for projects (code updates, general plan amendments, design guidelines).
• Assist planners in evaluating project designs and technical documents.
• Respond to basic code inquiries or evaluations.
• Assist in preparing maps, graphics, and planning reports.
• Conduct field work and collect parcel data; search land records.

Skills

GIS knowledge

Microsoft Office

Adobe Suite

Land use planning

Analytical skills

Written and oral communication

Research skills

Team collaboration

Education

Urban/Regional Planning coursework

Related field coursework (planning/public admin/architecture/etc.)

Job description

Application Deadline: December 13, 2026

Department: Planning and Community Development

Minimum Requirements

Education: Enrollment at an accredited college or university and have completed at least one year of a curriculum related to Urban and Regional Planning, Real Estate Development, Public Administration, Legal Studies, Architecture, Geography, Landscape Architecture, Sustainable Built Environments, or related field.

Experience: Basic knowledge of land use planning, or development of public policy and knowledge of its impact on citizens. A general knowledge of planning principles and practices, and applicable regulatory practices.

Competency in various computer software programs, such as Microsoft Office, GIS, and Adobe Suite Products.

Strong written and oral communication skills.

Strong research and analytical skills.

Motivated self-starter able to work independently.

Ability to work effectively in a team environment.

Flexibility to work on varying planning projects.

Ability to multi-task and adapt to a changing work environment.

Additional when assigned to Parks & Natural Resources: General interest in parks, cultural, and natural resources.

Licenses and Certifications

Minimum age of 18.

Valid AZ Driver’s License upon hire.

Ability to periodically work outside.

Preferred/Desirable Qualifications

Completion of course related to Comprehensive Planning and Land Use Controls, Zoning Code Regulations, Site Plan Review, or related coursework.

Working knowledge of Geographical Information Systems (GIS) and the ability to use GIS as a tool to create visual aids.

Proficiency in conveying data in a visually appealing way.

Hiring Rate

$15.15/ hour, maximum of 20 hours a week.

Tell me more….. The Planning Internship position will require collaboration, extensive research skills, and offer real-world experience in public sector planning. Career knowledge will be shared and demonstrated, and candidates will be expected to be engaged, active participants in discussions, and plan to present research findings. This position may qualify as college credit for some degree programs; credit opportunities must be coordinated through educational institution as appropriate. This is a part time, non-benefited position up to twenty (20) hours per week.

Responsibilities

• Have the ability to provide research, technical assistance, organization, and professional writing support for various special projects (e.g. code updates, General Plan Amendments, and Design Guidelines).
• Assist planners in the evaluation of project designs, plans, and technical documents.
• Provide technical assistance by responding to basic code requirement inquiries or evaluations.
• Assist planners in preparing maps, graphics, and planning reports.
• Conduct field work, collect parcel data and search land records.
• Assist in facilitation of public meetings and outreach events associated with current and long-range planning projects.
• Research, update inventory, and prepare maps for the City’s open space network, along with path and trail systems.
• Research and provide technical assistance on special studies, and consultant driven projects.
• Conduct field work associated with parks and recreation special projects.

About Peoria

The City of Peoria, AZ is a thriving city in the Northwest Valley that provides excellent municipal services to our community. Recently named by AZ Big Media as the Best Place to Live, Work, and Play, we are committed to maintaining the level of service to our residents to sustain and enhance the lives and culture of Peoria. If you are passionate about providing excellent service through anticipating our community’s needs, creating partnerships, promoting sustainability, and embracing diversity, then #PeoriaisthePlace for you!

Culture of Peoria

Get an inside look at the Culture of Peoria. We are PEORIA! Professional, Ethical, Open, Responsive, Innovative, Accountable.

Values

Our P.E.O.R.I.A. values define how we serve: Professional Ethical Open Responsive Innovative Accountable.

Join Peoria. Serve with purpose and ignite your future.

Equal Employment Opportunity

An Equal Employment Opportunity Agency. Peoria es una Agencia de Igualdad de Oportunidad de Empleo. The City of Peoria is a full-service municipality delivering exceptional services by anticipating needs, building partnerships, promoting sustainability, and embracing diversity. Founded in 1886 and incorporated in 1954, Peoria has grown from a farming town into a thriving city of over 190,000 residents. We’re proud of our history and excited about a future driven by innovation, growth, and connection. Local government is more than a job; it’s a chance to make a difference. Our mission is to foster a culture of productivity, improvement, and excellent service. At Peoria, we value our employees and strive to create a workplace where everyone feels respected, safe, and supported.

Contact

Need Help? Email: [e-mail] Call: 623-773-7100

Explore More: Job Descriptions Benefits City Website The City of Peoria is an Equal Employment Opportunity Agency.