Planning Intern

Job Description

The City of Belmont Planning & Zoning Department is seeking a part-time intern to support ongoing planning efforts throughout summer 2026. This is a paid, in-person position that will be expected to complete approximately 20-25 hours of work per week over 10-12 weeks (subject to official hire date) through mid-August 2026.

The candidate selected for this role will gain entry-level exposure to various public sector planning disciplines, including current planning and permitting, long-range planning, transportation planning, and community engagement. The intern will support regular administrative functions of the planning department and will also have the opportunity to assist with project-based tasks, tailored to the candidate’s interests as available.

Anticipated Duties & Responsibilities

Based on the individual’s expertise and area(s) of study, intern tasks may include:

• Supporting Planning staff with daily administrative tasks
• Assisting with research related to zoning ordinances, historic preservation, environmental planning, and transportation planning/Vision Zero
• Developing technical and public-facing content to support the Planning Department’s work, including reports, maps, graphics, and social media content
• Participating in and supporting public-facing activities, including Board meetings, public engagement pop-ups, community walk audits, and zoning inspections
• Other duties as assigned

A successful intern will accomplish the following through this experience:

• Develop an understanding of city ordinances and long-range plans and how they are communicated, implemented, and enforced
• Develop an understanding of local government functions and the role planning departments play in serving a community
• Build knowledge in a variety of planning disciplines and understand how each one impacts the planning process
• Craft a portfolio of technical and public-facing planning documents, maps, and other materials to demonstrate their contributions to the city

Qualifications

Required Skills, Education, and Experience

Knowledge, skills, and abilities required for this role include:

• Working knowledge of and demonstrated interest in planning, public administration, geography, or a related field
• Ability to think critically, solve problems independently, and conduct research
• Strong customer service skills
• Strong attention to detail
• Proficient in the use of Microsoft Office products, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook

Minimum qualifications:

• Must possess a high school diploma or equivalent
• Must be enrolled at an institution of higher education pursuing a bachelor’s or master’s degree in planning, public administration, geography, or a related field

Preferred qualifications:

• Possess a bachelor’s degree in planning, public administration, geography, or a related field, OR have prior experience in planning or a related discipline
• Proficient in the use of ESRI products, including ArcGIS Pro and ArcGIS Online
• Proficient in the use of graphic design programs like Canva or Adobe Creative Suite