Planning Intern

Orange County Water District•Fountain Valley, CA

16h•Onsite

About The Position

Under supervision, the Planning Intern will support the Planning Department with a primary emphasis on evaluating emerging technologies relevant to environmental and watershed planning, and on reviewing and summarizing watershed studies, technical reports, and regulatory documents. Under the mentorship of senior Planning Staff and supervision of the Executive Director of Planning and Natural Resources, the intern will contribute to research initiatives, assist with environmental compliance tasks, and help streamline the department's knowledge management and document systems. This position offers hands-on experience applying academic training in a professional public-sector environment, with meaningful exposure to water resource planning, environmental policy, and planning technology tools.

Requirements

Current enrollment in a bachelor's or graduate degree program in Urban Planning, Environmental Studies, Geology, Hydrogeology, GIS, Biology or a related physical science field.
Preference will be given to graduate-level students; however, undergraduates who have completed significant relevant coursework are strongly encouraged to apply.
Ability to read, interpret, and summarize complex technical documents such as environmental permits, technical reports, and monitoring data
Strong analytical skills with attention to detail in synthesizing large volumes of information
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) required; GIS or other planning software experience is a plus
Effective verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to convey technical content to diverse audiences
Self-motivated and organized, with strong time-management skills in a multi-task environment
Interns must be currently enrolled full time in an accredited bachelor or graduate program related to this field.
Interns must have at least one year or more remaining in school.
Interns must submit proof of full-time enrollment, class schedules, and grades each semester/quarter.
A valid California Class “C” Driver’s License and proof of automobile insurance are required.

Nice To Haves

Watershed management, hydrology, stormwater planning, or water quality policy
CEQA, NEPA, environmental impact assessment, or environmental permitting
GIS, spatial data analysis, or remote sensing applications
Planning principles, land use policy, or natural resource management
Technical writing, research methods, or policy analysis

Responsibilities

Review, summarize, and track watershed studies, technical reports, and regulatory documents to support planning and compliance activities.
Assist with research and analysis related to water resources, environmental policy, and regional planning initiatives.
Research, evaluate, and monitor emerging planning technologies, tools, and digital workflows, summarizing findings and recommendations for department use.
Help organize and maintain planning records in accordance with document retention policies.
Under supervision, attend and host meetings; prepare presentations, notes and follow-up materials as needed.