Properties & Planning Intern

Description

Overview:

At Park District of Oak Park, we are dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in our community by providing access to well-maintained parks, green spaces, and recreational opportunities. Our Parks & Property department plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of the district's outdoor spaces, focusing on development, sustainability, and the overall park experience. Join us for a hands-on internship that will provide real-world experience in planning, design, and management of parks and public spaces.

Job Purpose:

The Parks & Planning Intern will work closely with our Parks & Property team to support the planning, development, and management of park spaces and recreational programs. This is a unique opportunity to gain valuable insight into public parks planning, urban design, and sustainability initiatives while contributing to projects that directly impact our community. This internship will be involved in various aspects of the department, including research, site analysis, planning proposals, public engagement, and field assessments.

Essential Functions:

• Assist in the development and updating of master plans, park designs, and feasibility studies.
• Conduct site visits and help evaluate current park facilities and public spaces.
• Research and analyze community needs and trends related to park usage, accessibility, and environmental sustainability.
• Support the planning and coordination of community engagement efforts, including public meetings, surveys, and outreach.
• Assist with the creation of maps, reports, and presentations for internal use and community communication.
• Help track project timelines, budgets, and deliverables.
• Contribute to park maintenance and renovation projects by helping assess needs and recommend improvements.
• Gain in the field experience working alongside Park and Facilities staff engaged in routine day-to-day operations. 
• Collaborate with other departments and stakeholders on park initiatives and events.

Knowledge, Skills, and Work Experience Required:

• Currently, enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate program in Urban Planning, Landscape Architecture, Environmental Studies, Recreation Management, or related field.
• Strong interest in parks, urban planning, community development, and sustainability.
• Basic knowledge of GIS (Geographic Information Systems) and/or design software (AutoCAD, SketchUp, etc.) is a plus.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Attention to detail and ability to manage multiple tasks effectively.
• Experience in park or environmental volunteer work, community engagement, or related activities is desirable.
• Must possess a valid drivers license. Must pass a pre-employment drug test. This position is part of a random drug testing program.
• Certification in advanced Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), First Aid and Automated External Defibrillator (AED) within 1 month of employment and keep certification current. The District provides this training.

Work Environment, Physical Demands and Considerations:

• Frequently sitting, walking, standing, reaching, bending, and typing.
• Occasionally climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, and crawling.
• Must be able to lift up to 35 lbs.
• Normal office conditions for majority of work, may include occasional light and temperature variations.
• Prolonged hours seated at a desk.
• May include prolonged hours of computer use.
• May be exposed to occasional inclement weather as position may require outdoor work.
• Ability to work independently without constant supervision.
• Ability to present written and verbal ideas and recommendations in a concise manner.
• Ability to understand and carry out verbal and/or written instructions efficiently and effectively and to read and understand printed material.
• Ability to operate assigned equipment.
• Ability to effectively interact and communicate well with others.
• Ability to interpret and explain department and District policies and procedures.
• Ability to follow safety guidelines and exercise judgment in all aspects of responsibility.
• Ability to resolve conflict safely, calmly and effectively.

Benefits:

• Gain practical experience in parks planning and management in a dynamic, supportive environment.
• Mentorship and guidance from experienced professionals in the parks and planning fields.
• Opportunity to contribute to meaningful projects that have a direct impact on the community.
• Exposure to a variety of planning and development processes within the public sector.
• Potential for future career opportunities within the park district or related fields.
• Flexible hours based on academic schedule.

This internship job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, functions or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, functions, activities or responsibilities may change at any time with or without notice.

The Park District of Oak Park is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer!

Qualifications

Salary : $15