Intern application packages will be accepted until 4:00 pm on January 27, 2012. Packages received after this will not be accepted.  

You MUST include the following documents in their application package (incomplete packages cannot be considered). Scroll down the page for more details on each document.

• Cover letter;
• Resume;
• Summary of how candidate matches the intern position profile;
• Transcripts from post-secondary institutions attended (photocopies are acceptable);
• Host preferences list; and
• Three letters of reference (e.g. character, work/volunteer, educational). One of each is not necessary.

Cover letter

Provides you with an opportunity to state why you should be considered as an intern. It also allows you to explain you desire to become a municipal planner. You are encouraged to discuss your career aspirations and life goals. The letters can be either addressed to "Dear Recruiter" or "To the Selection Committee."  If you wish, you may submit a customized letter for each host organization you have selected on your host preferences list.

Resume

Your resume should contain such information as educational background, work experience, relevant skills and attributes, and any other information that may be of interest to a potential host organization.  Ensure your resume contains your current contact information, including mailing address, phone number, and email address.

Intern position profile

Your profile should briefly, but thoroughly, outline how you meet each of the areas outlined in the intern position profile. Your profile can be written in any format you choose. This is your opportunity to tell the host organizations why you think you should be selected as an intern.  Please keep your profile to two pages or less.

Host Preference List

Your Host Preferences List indicates which host organizations you would like your application sent to (i.e. where you are interested in being an intern). Ensure you have signed the release on the bottom of the page.

Transcripts

Are intended to provide potential employers not only with your course marks, but also with the types of courses you have taken. Official transcripts are preferred, though unofficial transcripts may also be accepted.

Three letters of reference

Should be fairly current and can be from any source. Reference letters provide an additional way for potential employers to verify and assess your skills and personal qualities. Depending on the preference of the referee, the letters can either be directly sent to Municipal Affairs, by mail or by email, or be included in your application package. Originals are preferred. The letters can be either addressed to “Dear Recruiter” or “To the Selection Committee”.

• Use spell check!
• Space your cover letter equally on the page. (i.e., it should not just be printed in the top 1/3 of the page).
• Do not forget to sign your cover letter.
• Limit your resume to 1-2 pages of the most important information about you.
• Use spell check!
• Ensure your name and contact information is on every page of your cover letter and resume.
• Double-check to ensure that you have all of the documents you need in your application package.
• Use your cover letter to highlight or paraphrase key items that are listed in your resume.
• Keep it simple to make it easy to read. Do not use fancy graphics, fonts, formatting, or lots of colour.
• Keep your cover letter to one page in length; preferably three paragraphs.
• Keep your resume focused, but include enough details for the employer.
• Keep your application concise and professional.
• If pieces of your application are to be sent separately, please indicate that somewhere in your application package.
• Use spell check!
• Do not use abbreviations.
• Have someone proofread all your documents.
• Use the Internet to search for more resume and cover letter tips.
• Remember, you are competing for a job and need to convince a potential employer to grant you an interview.

Applications should be sent by mail, courier or email to:

Melanie Wood
Municipal Internship Program for Land Use Planners
Alberta Municipal Affairs
17th Floor, Commerce Place
10155 - 102 Street
Edmonton, Alberta
T5J 4L4

Email: melanie.wood@gov.ab.ca
Phone: 780-427-2225
Toll Free Service Alberta: 780-310-0000 [and dial 780-427-2225]