Community & Economic Development Intern
The Office of Community and Economic Development requests one intern for the fall to support FY21 studies and projects. The ideal candidate will demonstrate interest in land use and transportation planning, smart growth planning principles, community and economic development, and real estate development.
- Conducting an inventory of a sample of the region’s retail districts to determine the mix of uses within each district, as well as the degree to which the retail establishments have adapted to the digital economy;
- Researching trends within the retail industry that were either accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic or arose as a result;
- Studying the history of the practice of redlining both nationally and within the region, as well as researching modern-day instances of redlining; and,
- Gathering data from the American Community Survey (ACS) and other publicly available sources to analyze and understand immigration patterns within the region.
Candidates who are detail-oriented with a keen interest in research and data gathering are encouraged to apply, as are candidates who are curious about the retail industry, the impacts of COVID-19 on traditional downtowns and main streets, and the practice of redlining.
Individuals proficient in the use of Microsoft Office (specifically Excel), GIS, and the Adobe Creative Suite are particularly attractive to the department, and those that are familiar with Python and/or R are encouraged to apply.
Responsibilities
- Assist professional staff with research and data collection and management;
- Generate text, tables, and graphics to potentially be used in planning reports and memos; and,
- Conduct field work if and when necessary and appropriate to do so.
Qualifications
- Knowledge of and experience with general regional planning, community and economic development, and smart growth principles.
- Passion for research and data gathering.
- Ability to prioritize, multi-task, and problem solve.
- Experience with Microsoft Office Suite (Excel in particular), GIS, and Adobe Creative Suite preferred.
- Knowledge of ACS and other publicly available data sources.
- Excellent writing, communications, and interpersonal skills.
- Basic knowledge of the Philadelphia region is desired.
- Ability to work independently, including remotely if necessary, as well as in teams.
Availability
Potential candidates should be available for 10 to 15 hours per week. Up to five days per week during the fall period.
Compensation
Salary is commensurate with education and experience. Students with Work-Study funding are encouraged to apply.
Minimum Education and Training
Must have completed at least THREE YEARS of a college/university program or be enrolled in a master's, or an equivalent combination of experience and training, plus substantial experience, interest, or involvement in planning.
To Apply
Please forward cover letter and resume to: resumes@dvrpc.org.