Watershed and Development Research Intern

Company Description

A best-in-class city that attracts best-in-class talent, Philadelphia is an incredible place to build a career. From our thriving arts scene and rich history to our culture of passion and grit, there are countless reasons to love living and working here. With a workforce of over 30,000 people, and more than 1,000 different job categories, the City of Philadelphia offers boundless opportunities to make an impact.

As an employer, the City of Philadelphia values inclusion, integrity, innovation, empowerment, and hard work above all else. We offer a vibrant work environment, comprehensive health care and benefits, and the experience you need to grow and excel. If you’re interested in working with a passionate team of people who care about the future of Philadelphia, start here.

What we offer

• Impact - The work you do here matters to millions. 
• Growth - Philadelphia is growing, why not grow with it? 
• Diversity & Inclusion - Find a career in a place where everyone belongs.
• Benefits - We care about your well-being.

Agency Description

The Department of Planning and Development works in collaboration with communities to promote, plan, preserve, and develop successful neighborhoods for all. Reaching these goals requires city agencies to work together with residents, businesses, developers, advocates, funders, and each other. Planning and Development has a team of agencies that do just that. Our agencies include:

• Philadelphia Art Commission
• Philadelphia City Planning Commission
• Division of Development Services
• Division of Housing and Community Development
• Philadelphia Historical Commission
• Zoning Board of Adjustment
• We also partner with the PHDC

Job Description

Position Summary
The Environmental Stewardship Unit of the City Planning Commission seeks a planning research intern to support watershed administration, planning, and policy work. The incumbent will help organize, scan, and analyze the Commission's historical records related to the Wissahickon Watershed. Developing this database will underpin the Commission's work to protect Philadelphia's creeks through thoughtful land use policy.

Essential Functions
Working under supervision of City Planners, the intern will systematically scan plans and other documents in the Commission's records; enter key information in a database or GIS system; perform basic data analysis tasks; and field-check certain key sites as needed to verify outcomes of past PCPC decisions.

Competencies, Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
Hard-working student with strong research and writing skills, experience with statistical research and analysis, and knowledge of MS Office software. Above all else, the successful candidate will demonstrate a high degree of organization and attention to detail. Other helpful skills are the ability to stay focused and perform consistently at sometimes repetitive tasks and willingness to perform field work under supervision. The minimum qualification for this internship is an interest in land use and environmental planning.

Qualifications

• At least one year of coursework at the undergraduate level in land use planning, environmental science/studies, or civil engineering, geography, urban planning/studies
• Familiarity with the Wissahickon Creek and adjacent neighborhoods
• Ability to perform basic data analysis tasks with Microsoft excel
• Some experience with ESRI products

Additional Information

TO APPLY: Interested candidates must submit a cover letter, resume, and reference.

Hourly Rate: $16.35

Discover the Perks of Being a City of Philadelphia Employee:

• Transportation: City employees get unlimited FREE public transportation all year long through SEPTA’s Key Advantage program. Employees can ride on SEPTA buses, subways, trolleys, and regional rail for their daily commute and more.
• Parental Benefits: The City offers its employees 8 weeks of paid parental leave.
• We offer Comprehensive health coverage for employees and their eligible dependents.
• Our wellness program offers eligibility into the discounted medical plan
• Employees receive paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays
• Generous retirement savings options are available
• Pay off your student loans faster - As a qualifying employer, City of Philadelphia employees are eligible to participate in the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program. Join the ranks of hundreds of employees who have already benefited from this program and achieved student loan forgiveness.
• Unlock Tuition Discounts and Scholarships - The City of Philadelphia has forged partnerships with over a dozen esteemed colleges and universities in the area, ensuring that our employees have access to a wide range of tuition discounts and scholarships. Experience savings of 10% to 40% on your educational expenses, extending not only to City employees but in some cases, spouse and dependents too!

Join the City of Philadelphia team today and seize these incredible benefits designed to enhance your financial well-being and personal growth!

*The successful candidate must be a city of Philadelphia resident within six months of hire

Effective May 22, 2023, vaccinations are no longer required for new employees that work in non-medical, non-emergency or patient facing positions with the City of Philadelphia. As a result, only employees in positions providing services that  are patient-facing medical care (ex: Nurses, doctors, emergency medical personnel), must be fully vaccinated.

The City of Philadelphia is an Equal Opportunity employer and does not permit discrimination based on race, ethnicity, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, marital status, source of income, familial status, genetic information or domestic or sexual violence victim status. If you believe you were discriminated against, call the Philadelphia Commission on Human Relations at 215-686-4670 or send an email to faqpchr@phila.gov.

For more information, go to: Human Relations Website: http://www.phila.gov/humanrelations/Pages/default.aspx