This profile provides you with the minimum recruitment criteria for the program. This is a key part of your application package because it is your opportunity to show why you think you should be selected as an intern.

Minimum Recruitment Criteria

• A recently completed (within the last two years) planning degree or a related degree with a minimum of two senior-level planning classes. Individuals graduating in May 2010 are eligible;
• A desire to experience and learn about municipal planning;
• Work or volunteer experience that is related to the skills needed in municipal planning and administration;
• Willingness to relocate to a host municipality, if necessary; and
• Work, character, educational, or volunteer related references.

• Some basic knowledge about local government and land-use planning;
• An interest in pursuing a career in municipal planning;
• Experience working with community groups or involvement with volunteer community organizations;
• A desire to influence public policy and community development through public service;
• Flexibility in terms of hours and job requirements;
• Problem solving ability; and
• Positive public relations skills.

As an intern you will work with the host’s planner(s) and various municipal departments to learn about municipal planning and administration. 
 
You will work collaboratively with your host to determine the most effective method of completing the prepared Workplan. The Workplan is to be used as a guide to allow flexibility in timelines and allow the host to include additional activities as appropriate. It has been designed so that the interns are exposed to core areas of municipal administration in addition to land-use planning.

Professional development is also a key component of this program. The intern will have the opportunity to develop leadership skills by observing, experiencing, and practicing such skills throughout the duration of the internship. Interns will receive a Guidebook that provides information and recommended activities to help develop both leadership and technical planning skills.

Examples of exercises and activities the intern may be involved in include:

• Identifying the roles and responsibilities of council and administration;
• Assisting with overviews of municipal and area structure plans;
• Plan and attend public hearings;
• Interacting with department heads;
• Working with various planning documents ;
• Interacting with various boards and committees;
• Handling public and research inquiries; and
• Researching policy issues.

Challenges