Planning Intern
US$26 / hr base salary
Posted 1 Oct 2026
Advertised as “Planning Intern, Fall 2026 - Spring 2027”
BranchFactor Summary
The original posting with the fluff stripped out
- Management level
- Individual contributor
- Employment
- Hybrid
- Contract
- Internship
| Base salary | US$26 / hr |
|---|
Field of studyGeography, Landscape Architecture, Urban Design, Urban Planning (or related)
Study levelBachelor's or higher
What We're Looking For
Michael Baker International is seeking a detail-oriented Planning Intern to support our Santa Ana, California Planning Department. This position will assist multidisciplinary teams with a variety of planning projects, including long-range planning efforts throughout California and other regions of the country.
The internship is anticipated to run from October 2026 through Spring 2027 and will require approximately 4 to 16 hours per week. Work schedules and internship start and end dates are flexible and will be coordinated with the selected candidate.
What You'll Do
- Assist in preparing long-range planning documents, including General Plan Updates, Specific Plans, Objective Design Standards, Parks and Recreation Master Plans, and Urban Design Master Plans.
- Analyze quantitative and qualitative data to support planning studies and reports.
- Conduct policy research and evaluate planning best practices, regulations, and standards.
- Prepare clear, concise technical writing for both professional and public audiences.
- Develop maps, graphics, presentations, and visual communication materials.
- Assist with modeling in a variety of modeling programs.
- Support community outreach, stakeholder engagement, workshops, and public meetings.
- Conduct field observations and site visits.
What You Need to Succeed
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Currently enrolled, in good academic standing, at an accredited college or university.
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Pursuing a bachelor’s or master’s degree in Urban Planning, Landscape Architecture, Urban Design, Geography, or a related field.
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Strong analytical, research, and problem-solving skills.
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Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
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Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, and PowerPoint).
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Experience with GIS and Adobe Creative Suite is preferred.
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Experience with 3D modeling and visualization software, such as SketchUp, Rhino, AutoCAD, Lumion, and Enscape, is preferred.
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Strong information design and data visualization skills, with the ability to translate technical concepts into accessible content.
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Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team.