Description
Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) is thrilled to offer a paid internship that provides students and recent graduates with practical work experience in regional planning and the opportunity to build valuable relationships with industry experts, community partners, and colleagues. As an intern at SCAG in the Planning Division, you will be an integral part of our team, supporting our department through various administrative and technical tasks. From conducting in-depth research to crafting compelling reports, supporting participatory community engagement, and delivering impactful presentations, you will have the chance to make a real difference. Join us in a dynamic and engaging environment where you can develop your skills and leave a lasting impact on sustainable and resilient development in the Southern California region.
SCAG is seeking ten interns in the Planning Division to support our Planning Strategy, Mobility Planning & Goods Movement, Modeling & Forecasting, Sustainable & Resilient Development, and Integrated Planning & Programming departments.
Internships will begin approximately mid-July and will be limited to a maximum of 29 hours a week for the duration of the internship (499 hours). Interns are expected to work at least 15 hours per week.
SCAG is deeply committed to embodying the principles of diversity, equity, and inclusion, and advancing racial equity throughout the Southern California region. SCAG encourages applications by members of all underrepresented groups and from a broad range of educational programs and backgrounds.
Planning Strategy Department (3 Internship Positions Available) The intern assigned to the Environmental Analysis unit will actively contribute to the logging, mapping, and reporting of California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) projects and notices prepared by public agencies other than SCAG for the Intergovernmental Review (IGR) Program. Additionally, the intern will play a crucial role in preparing comprehensive draft meeting minutes and providing essential administrative support to the monthly Transportation Conformity Working Group (TCWG) meetings. Furthermore, the intern will be responsible for updating the master list of delay and scope change requests pertaining to committed Transportation Control Measures (TCM) projects as they are approved while also maintaining the business unit's website pages and the air quality and conformity library with utmost attention to detail.
The interns assigned to the Local Information Service unit will play a pivotal role in supporting the Local Information Service Team (LIST) and Regional Data Platform (RDP) by aiding in the preparation of documents, providing valuable technical assistance, and assisting in the seamless coordination, organization, and management of tasks related to various local and regional planning topics. Moreover, the interns will actively contribute to a wide range of responsibilities associated with the engaging Toolbox Tuesday Technical Webinar including quarterly newsletters, catalyst award nominations, tracking system, and participatory survey analysis.
About the Department
The Planning Strategy Department works collaboratively across the Planning Division to produce innovative solutions that improve the quality of life for Southern Californians and provide information and value-added services to enhance member agencies’ planning and operations and promote regional collaboration.
Mobility Planning & Goods Movement Department (3 Internship Positions Available)The intern assigned to the Technology and Innovation unit will provide support in various areas including clean transportation technology, broadband, and smart cities/intelligent transportation systems. They will assist with the development of an official membership process for Clean Cities Coalition, research supporting an electric vehicle incentive program, and coordination of quarterly working groups. The intern will also support the development of the Smart Cities Strategic Plan, assist with broadband studies and stakeholder coordination efforts, help restructure and organize the business units' MS Teams folders, and provide notetaking for meetings, webinars, and others as needed.
The intern assigned to the Multimodal Integration unit will help with various tasks supporting the region’s efforts to build and maintain a more integrated multimodal transportation network. The intern will research and analyze transportation trends and prepare staff reports and presentations for recurring meetings with transit/rail and active transportation stakeholders. The intern will also assist in reviewing deliverables for a variety of projects (e.g., mobility hubs, pedestrian plans, etc.). The intern will also provide administrative support for SCAG’s Active Transportation & Safety Call for Projects.
The intern assigned to the Goods Movement unit will support various duties related to project management, data analysis, and research in the field of goods movement. They will help manage the CoStar vendor subscription service and develop databases related to industrial, manufacturing, and retail goods movement. The intern will conduct supply chain analysis at various levels, research strategies such as freight transportation demand management (TDM) during the Olympics, and provide analytical support and technical writing for numerous plans and efforts. Lastly, they will provide support for the development of SCAG’s freight data hub and analytic platform.
About the Department
The Mobility Planning and Goods Movement department works to improve mobility, optimize the goods movement network, and broaden transportation choices. The Department accomplishes this through demand management, multi-modal system integration, increasing economic efficiency, and safety and air quality improvements supported by technology and innovation. The Department comprises three Business Units: Multimodal Integration, Technology and Innovation, and Goods Movement.
Modeling & Forecasting Department (1 Internship Position Available)The intern assigned to the Data & Visualization unit will assist in the regional geospatial data development, analysis and visualization for SCAG’s various programs and projects, by utilizing Geographic Information System (GIS) technique and skills. This includes collecting, updating and analyzing regional land use dataset, including general plan, specific plan, zoning, and existing land use information at the parcel-level, as well as transportation and environmental dataset. The intern will also assist in developing web GIS applications using Esri ArcGIS Portal and ArcGIS Online tools such as Experience Builder, StoryMap, and Dashboard. In addition, this intern will assist in the fulfillment of data/information requests from SCAG internal staff, SCAG member agencies, other public agencies and general public.
About the Department
The Modeling and Forecasting Department consists of three business units: Modeling, Growth Forecasting, and Data & Visualization (GIS). This department collaborates with local jurisdictions to develop socioeconomic growth forecasts for planning activities and provides modeling services for developing SCAG’s plans, programs, and projects. This department is also responsible for geospatial data development, analysis and visualization functions for SCAG’s innovative planning and data-driven decision-making processes.
Sustainable and Resilient Development Department (1 Internship Position Available)The intern assigned to the Resource Conservation & Resilient Communities unit will work on implementing Connect SoCal’s water resilience strategies, both in helping to determine SCAG’s role in supporting a sustainable water management ecosystem as well as the impact of natural and agricultural lands in groundwater recharge.
About the Department
The Sustainable and Resilient Development Department focuses on advancing and implementing strategies and tools in support of Connect SoCal, the region’s adopted Regional Transportation Plan and Sustainable Communities Strategy. The Department is organized into business units and program areas, with work focused on three areas: Resilient Communities and Resource Conservation, Sustainable and Connected Communities, and Regional Demographics and Growth Vision.
Integrated Planning & Programming Department (2 Internship Positions Available) The intern assigned to the Federal Transportation Improvement Program (FTIP) unit will support SCAG in managing the Surface Transportation Block Grant (STBG), Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality (CMAQ), and Carbon Reduction Program (CRP) funding programs. They will assist in call for projects processes, project tracking, and ensuring alignment with Connect SoCal priorities. Their role will be crucial in framing how SCAG tracks project obligations and delivery, which is important for the region's performance.
The additional intern assigned to the Federal Transportation Improvement Program (FTIP) unit will assist with running reports via the FTIP database and learning to analyze FTIP amendments. They will also assist in mapping FTIP projects for the 2025 FTIP, making them accessible to the public via the FTIP public website and use the information for Equity and Performance Measures analysis. Their work is essential in shaping how SCAG analyzes, accepts, and submits FTIP amendments to state and federal partners.
About the Department
The Integrated Planning & Programming Department is dedicated to ensuring SCAG complies with key obligations as the metropolitan planning organization (MPO) for the region. This includes complying with FTIP requirements and MPO selection of federally funded projects. Additionally, the department supports and coordinates transportation planning activities for the Connect SoCal update, prepares and coordinates transportation revenue and cost estimate, develops and coordinates funding strategies, and leads congestion pricing studies and pilot initiatives. The team prioritizes transportation system preservation activities and supports strategic, integrated transportation planning initiatives.
WHO WE ARE As a mission-driven organization, SCAG is committed to attracting and retaining talent who embody SCAG’s values. SCAG's workforce is passionate and committed to innovation that improves the quality of life for all Southern Californians. When you join SCAG, you can expect a culture where collaboration and teamwork is fostered.
SCAG operates as a hybrid organization because we recognize that work can be successfully performed in various locations. Designing a work environment and culture where SCAG’s mission, effectiveness, and collaboration can be more flexibly served demonstrates our commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB) by supporting work-life balance for our employees, retaining our existing dedicated staff, and increasing access to new talent pools.
As part of our Work@SCAG hybrid approach, employees’ eligibility in the three work models (office, hybrid, remote) will depend on the department, position, responsibilities, and duties at the discretion of management. All work models require employees to work from a location based within the SCAG region. This position is expected to be in the office as needed but encouraged to be in the office one day a week when the relevant business unit meets.
WHAT WE BELIEVEMISSIONTo foster innovative regional solutions that improve the lives of Southern Californians through inclusive collaboration, visionary planning, regional advocacy, information sharing, and promoting best practices.
VISIONSouthern California's Catalyst for a Brighter Future.
SCAG CORE VALUES- Be Open: Be accessible, candid, collaborative and transparent in the work we do.
- Lead by Example: Commit to integrity and equity in working to meet the diverse needs of all people and communities in our region.
- Make an Impact: In all endeavors, effect positive and sustained outcomes that make our region thrive.
- Be Courageous: Have confidence that taking deliberate, bold and purposeful risks can yield new and valuable benefits.
In this role you can expect to
Planning Strategy - Environmental Analysis- Log, map, and report IGR projects.
- Update websites and air quality and conformity fact sheets.
- Track and upload PM Hot Spot Forms.
- Log TCWG meeting minutes and logistics.
- Summarize board meetings of ARB and five air districts in the SCAG region.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Planning Strategy - Local Information Services (Toolbox Tuesday Technical Webinar)- Assist in developing, preparing, and coordinating with internal and external subject matter experts on various planning topics to be featured on the Toolbox Tuesday.
- Assist in the fulfillment of data/information requests from internal staff and external stakeholders relating to Toolbox Tuesday webinars.
- Engage in research activities related to regional/urban planning for potential session topics.
- Assist in the management of Toolbox Tuesday including the internal quarterly newsletters catalyst award nominations, tracking system, and participatory survey.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Planning Strategy - Local Information Services Team (LIST)- Assist in preparing documentation, reports, and data with SCAG subject matter experts on various technical assistance topics.
- Assist in providing technical assistance related to Regional Data Platform (RDP) tools and tabular. and spatial data processing to internal and external stakeholders.
- Assist in coordination, organization, and management of the LIST mailbox providing timely. assistance to local jurisdictions and stakeholders.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Mobility Planning & Goods Movement - Technology and Innovation - Assist with the development of an official membership process for the Clean Cities Coalition.
- Support the development of potential incentives programs (i.e, Electric Vehicles).
- Support the development of the Smart Cities Vision Plan.
- Assist with broadband related coordinated efforts.
- Coordination, notetaking, general research, on an as needed basis.
- General administrative duties.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Mobility Planning & Goods Movement - Multi-Modal Integration- Support transit/rail and active transportation working groups by preparing materials for stakeholders and members of the public and documenting the meetings.
- Assist with the review of mobility hubs deliverables. Specifically, local jurisdiction guidance and design concepts as well as materials for a Toolbox Tuesday training.
- Assist with active transportation projects already underway (e.g., OCTA and LADPH projects). This would include supporting review of deliverables.
- Assist with the active transportation call for projects SCAG administers (SCP-ATS).
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Mobility Planning & Goods Movement - Goods Movement- Utilize data extraction methods (e.g Python, APIs, Microsoft Power BI) to structure databases analyze, and visualization data.
- Support development of the Comprehensive Sustainable Freight Plan (CSFP).
- Support implementation strategies for goods movement steps from Connect SoCal 2024.
- Coordination, note taking, general research related to goods movement meetings, webinars, and other events.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Modeling & Forecasting - Data & Visualization - Assist in collecting, updating and analyzing regional land use dataset, including general plan specific plan, zoning, and existing land use information, as well as transportation and environmental dataset.
- Assist in developing web GIS applications using Esri ArcGIS Portal and ArcGIS Online tools such as Experience Builder, StoryMap, and Dashboard.
- Assist in the GIS modeling and automation workflow enhancement.
- Assist in the fulfillment of data/information requests from SCAG internal staff, SCAG member agencies, other public agencies and general public.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Sustainable and Resilient Development - Resilient Conservation & Resilient Communities- Conduct research and author reports.
- Support engagements with regional stakeholders.
- Assist with implementation of sustainability policies and strategies.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Integrated Planning & Programming - Federal Transportation Improvement Program(2 available positions)- Support regional call for projects processes.
- Support development of call application, participate and support meetings with potential project applicants and county transportation commissions, review applications, and draft memos on recommendations.
- Assist with tracking of selected projects, including programming into the FTIP, federal obligation, and timely use of funds.
- Assist with FTIP Amendment project analysis.
- Assist with the mapping of 2025 FTIP projects in the FTIP database mapping module.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
What you'll bring to this role
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE: An undergraduate or graduate student who is currently enrolled in a university or community college taking classes towards Arts and Culture, Business, Computer Science, Economics, Ethnic Studies, Environmental Science, Digital Arts, Geography, Planning, Public Policy, Public Administration, Social Work degree, or other related fields, or who has graduated within the previous 24 months.
We’ll be a great match if you also have: - Strong research skills, policy, data, and/or statistical analysis and experience extracting data.
- The ability to handle multiple projects, priorities, and deadlines with a successful outcome.
- Knowledge and/or experience with GIS concepts, principles, and/or programs.
- Experience preparing, writing, and presenting reports.
- Knowledge of urban planning theories and principles, local general plan, specific plan, and zoning planning process, demographics and economics, planning analysis, and research methods.
- Great customer service skills with effective clerical and administrative skills.
- Proficient Microsoft Office skills with a strong focus on Word, Excel, Access, and PowerPoint.
- Strong attention to detail and communication skills both verbally and in writing.
- Knowledge of urban planning theories and principles, local general plan, specific plan and zoning planning process, demographics and economics, planning analysis and research methods.
- Strong equity and racial justice analysis.
- Experience with thoughtful relationship building/cultivation with community partners.
- Experience with community engagement and participatory planning processes.
- Strong communication skills in writing and speaking.
Supplemental Information
Important Applicant Information: Please note, this posting will remain open until May 22, 2024, with the first application review taking place on May 8, 2024. Interested applicants are strongly encouraged to apply prior to that date. We anticipate interviews for this position will be held in five weeks.
Transit Reimbursement Program SCAG reimburses up to $230 per month for commute to the office via public transit via bus, rail, or train.Employees must commute a minimum of 8 days per month in order to receive reimbursement for monthly passes.
Flexible Time/Modified Work Week/Telework SCAG offers a flexible work schedule to allow employees some flexibility on daily work hours. SCAG has developed a hybrid workforce program called Work@SCAG to provide three work model options (office, hybrid, and remote) to choose from, based on their position, within the SCAG Region.
Technology Allowance Employees in hybrid and remote work models will receive a one-time stipend of $300 to be used for remote office setup.In addition, all employees receive a $140 monthly technology allowance to cover phone usage for business use and to offset utilities costs while working remotely.
Closing Date/Time: 5/22/2024 5:00 PM Pacific
