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Planning Internships Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Interwest Group

Assistant Planner

Oakland, CA · On-site

$30 - $45/hr

Bachelor's degree in urban planning, architecture, geography, or a related field * 1-3 years of experience in public or private sector planning (internships count) * Strong written, verbal, and ...

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Planning Internships information

What is a planning internship?

Planning internships are temporary positions that provide students or recent graduates with practical experience in the field of urban, regional, or city planning. These internships allow individuals to work alongside professional planners on projects related to community development, land use, transportation, environmental planning, and policy analysis. Interns gain valuable hands-on skills, insights into planning processes, and exposure to real-world challenges and solutions in the public or private sector. Planning internships are an essential step for those considering a career in planning and are often required or highly recommended for planning degree programs.

What types of projects and responsibilities can I expect during a planning internship?

As a planning intern, you'll typically assist with a variety of tasks such as conducting site analyses, preparing maps and reports, assisting with community outreach, and supporting senior planners in meetings and presentations. You'll often work on real projects that may involve urban development, transportation planning, or environmental assessment, depending on the organization's focus. Collaboration is common, as you'll likely interact with other interns, planners, engineers, and sometimes local government representatives. This hands-on experience provides valuable exposure to the planning process and helps build your professional portfolio.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a planning intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Planning Intern, you typically need coursework in urban planning, geography, or a related field, along with strong research and analytical skills. Familiarity with GIS software, Microsoft Office Suite, and data visualization tools is often expected. Strong communication, teamwork, and organizational abilities set outstanding interns apart in collaborative environments. These skills ensure effective project support, clear communication of ideas, and successful contributions to planning initiatives.

What is the difference between Planning Internships vs Urban Planning Assistant?

AspectPlanning InternshipsUrban Planning Assistant
Required CredentialsTypically pursuing or recent graduate in urban planning, geography, or related fieldsUsually holds a bachelor's or master's degree in urban planning or related disciplines
Work EnvironmentInternship programs, often in government agencies, consulting firms, or non-profitsFull-time support role within urban planning departments or firms
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in government, private consulting, and non-profit sectorsPrimarily in municipal, regional, or private urban planning organizations
Common Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

Planning Internships are entry-level positions for students or recent graduates gaining experience in urban planning. Urban Planning Assistants are more experienced support staff with completed degrees, performing more advanced tasks. Internships often serve as a stepping stone to full-time roles like Urban Planning Assistant.

What are popular job titles related to Planning Internships jobs in California?

For Planning Internships jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Planning Internships jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Planning Internships jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Planning Internships jobs?

Cities in California with the most Planning Internships job openings:

Planning Internships jobs near you

Assistant Planner

Interwest Consulting Group

Irvine, CA

$30 - $45/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

Assistant Planner - Orange County, CA
Interwest is looking for an Assistant Planner who’s excited to learn, contribute, and grow alongside a team of experienced professionals shaping California communities every day.
At Interwest, you’ll gain hands-on experience supporting local governments with a wide range of planning projects—from zoning and design review to comprehensive plan updates. You’ll be mentored by planners with decades of experience and supported by a company that believes your professional growth is key to our shared success. We are accepting applications for both full-time and part-time positions.

Assistant Planner duties and responsibilities include but are not limited to the following:
  • Assist city and county planning departments with current and long-range planning tasks
  • Review site plans, zoning requests, and administrative applications
  • Provide public counter services and respond to community inquiries
  • Conduct research for comprehensive plan and code updates
  • Prepare and present staff reports and recommendations to boards and commissions
  • Build collaborative relationships with municipal staff and colleagues

We are looking for individuals who:
For any position at Interwest, a positive outlook and commitment to great customer service are mandatory. Experience working in California public agency planning departments is required.
Education and Experience:
  • Bachelor’s degree in urban planning, architecture, geography, or a related field
  • 1–3 years of experience in public or private sector planning (internships count)
  • Strong written, verbal, and visual communication skills
  • Curiosity, initiative, and a genuine interest in community development
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office and Adobe Suite; familiarity with GIS or electronic permitting is a plus
  • A team-oriented mindset and commitment to excellent customer service
  • Proficiency in a second language is a plus
Salary Range: $30.00 - $45.00 per hour
Benefits include health, dental, vision, life, and disability insurances, paid holidays, paid time off, matching 401K Plans, wellness programs and more. SAFEbuilt is committed to Career Progression through paid training and step increases for additional certifications and licenses.
More about Interwest: https://interwestgrp.com/  
Interwest Consulting Group is a municipal consulting firm focused on providing thoughtful, tailored solutions that build thriving communities. Founded in 2002, Interwest provides City Engineering, Building Code Compliance, City Planning, Traffic Engineering, Capital Project Delivery and Real Estate Acquisition throughout CA and NV.  Interwest joined the SAFEbuilt family in 2020.
More About SAFEbuilt: http://safebuilt.com/ 
SAFEbuilt has the technical expertise to provide Community Development services, but the reason for our success is our people. Over 1600 experts make up our team from across the country, with experience in a full range of services and skills. Each Team member values integrity, improvement, service, teamwork, and respect. These Core Values are the foundation of positive relationships among coworkers, our clients, residents, and anyone invested in the continued success of their community.
Our employees are our greatest asset, with exceptionally certified individuals in all departments, including Planning amp; Zoning, Code Enforcement, Fire Prevention, and Engineering, as well as full-service and supplemental Building Department services. SAFEbuilt invests in developing our employees, exploring innovative technology, and giving back to our communities.
In partnership with over 1200 communities, our talented experts make a difference in the cities and towns where we live and work. Through quality people and consistent service, SAFEbuilt plays an important role in continually improving lives by developing safe, thriving communities.
SAFEbuilt is an equal opportunity employer and considers qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender identity, gender expression, age, disability, veteran status or any other protected factor. 
If you need assistance or accommodation due to a disability, please contact us at jobs@safebuilt.com or you may call us directly on 970-292-2200.  

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