Planning Student or Recent Graduate

Urban Systems•Kelowna, BC

1d•$24 - $27•Hybrid

About The Position

We are looking to add an enthusiastic Planning Student from a Canadian Institute of Planners accredited undergraduate or graduate program, or related program, for a 4 or 8 month work term starting in September 2026! At Urban Systems, we understand your need to have meaningful experiences during your education. We strive to provide opportunities for you to apply your skills to exciting, challenging, and rewarding projects, gaining exposure to diverse aspects of planning—both in the office and in the field. Our goal for you is to come away with new points of view, an enhanced skillset, a feeling of success, and long-lasting connections that will serve you well in your future as a professional. Our commitment to creating an impact runs deep. We care – about each other, about the work we do and about the clients and communities we work with. Our people and teams embrace a growth mindset to build a culture where everyone can grow and develop over time. This is a place where you can build meaningful relationships and explore your potential. Join us for a work term where you will hone your knowledge and increase your understanding of industry best practices in a practical and supportive setting. Working alongside seasoned planners and recent graduates alike, you may be engaged in projects related to land use planning, housing, public engagement, municipal community planning, infrastructure planning, governance, and Indigenous specific planning. You will have the opportunity to work with a wide range of clients and communities, such as municipal government, Indigenous communities, and non-profit organizations. As a student, you will have the opportunity to work on a wide variety of projects; however, the type of work will depend on active projects.

Requirements

Currently enrolled in, or recently graduated from, a planning program accredited by the Canadian Institute of Planners or a relevant undergraduate or graduate program.
Motivated – You are excited to broaden your expertise and understanding by gaining experience in the following areas: land use planning, transportation planning, housing, public engagement, municipal/development finance, infrastructure planning, governance, urban design, and development approvals.
Curious – you are eager to learn, ask questions, and listen deeply. You know, being present and listening to people to understand their needs and experiences. is integral to being in service of others.
Detail-Oriented – You pay close attention to detail and quality control and verify the accuracy of your production work at all stages of a project.
Relationships Focused – You aim to build relationships, develop a sense of community, and work with diverse groups to tackle complex challenges faced by communities.
Communication – you are a skilled communicator, both verbal and written, and are able to share complicated information in a way that is easy to understand.
Research—You are comfortable conducting research, including collecting and analyzing qualitative and/or quantitative data.
Problem-solving – you approach problems creatively and with critical thinking and are able to work with others to brainstorm solutions for your work.

Nice To Haves

Strong candidates from other backgrounds, such as urban studies, Indigenous studies, urban development, urban design, economics, and environmental studies.
Related experience will be beneficial but not required.

Responsibilities

Providing planning support on a broad range of community planning projects (including but not limited to land use planning, parks and recreation, economic development, tourism, transportation, and community governance).
Conducting research, preparing background reports, and supporting projects for municipal government, First Nations communities, and non-profit clients. Some examples include land use reports, conceptual plans, studies, and bylaws.
Assisting in the preparation of proposals, reports, and presentations for clients and public meetings.
Collaborating with the existing team to develop public engagement materials such as open house panels, newsletters, brochures, and community surveys.
Attending and supporting site visits, public meetings, engagements, workshops, and open houses as required.