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City of Half Moon Bay
Intern – Public Works / Engineering Department

Hourly Pay: $23.15 - $25.53
 

About the City

The City of Half Moon Bay is a Bay Area coastal community of approximately 12,500 residents and is located 25 miles south of San Francisco. The City is governed by a five-member elected City Council and utilizes the council-manager form of government. The City Council appoints a City Manager who is responsible for the oversight of daily operations and provides leadership for the City’s programs. The City currently employs 40 full-time employees in the following departments: City Manager’s Office, Administrative Services and Finance, Community Development, Public Works, and Communications/ City Clerk. The City also contracts Public Safety with San Mateo County Sheriff's Department.

The City and surrounding Coastside are a thriving agricultural, fishing, tourism, and recreational destination. There is a rich culture of diverse traditions and multi-generational families who have lived in Half Moon Bay for well over 100 years. In any given neighborhood you will find farmers, high-tech entrepreneurs, and artists living together.

About the Position

The Public Works Department is seeking a motivated and enthusiastic intern with an interest in engineering, project management, and public service. This internship provides an excellent opportunity to gain experience in local government operations and civil engineering under general supervision and mentorship from professional staff.

The selected intern will assist with a variety of projects and ongoing assignments, which may include but are not limited to:

• Assisting with Capital Improvement Program (CIP) projects, including design and construction

• Supporting engineering project managers with clerical, administrative, and technical tasks

• Researching and analyzing programs and initiatives

• Updating internal procedures and policies

• Creating and editing CAD maps, designs, and standards (AutoCAD)

• Participating in field data collection, investigations, and analysis

• Researching development, zoning, and land use-related issues

• Performing engineering support services

• Drafting and editing reports

• Providing customer service

• Attending departmental and community meetings

• Opportunity to present a report to the City Council

Minimum Qualifications

Any combination of education and experience that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying.

Education & Experience

• Some completed coursework toward an undergraduate degree in Civil Engineering or a related field is desired but not required.

Knowledge of:

• Microsoft Office (Excel, Outlook, Word, PowerPoint)

• Adobe software (Acrobat, InDesign, Photoshop)

• AutoCAD

• Local government operations (preferred)

Ability to:

• Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing

• Work cooperatively with City staff

• Perform analytical work and prepare clear, concise reports

• Use tact and discretion in public and professional interactions

• Plan, organize, and complete projects on time

• Interpret and apply administrative and departmental policies

• Uphold the City’s organizational mission

• Conduct oneself professionally at all times

Why Apply?

• Growth: Build skills in writing, research, analysis, presentation, and critical thinking

• Training: Gain real-world experience supporting public infrastructure and services

• Mentorship: Receive guidance from experienced City staff

• Networking: Connect with professionals in local government

Summer 2026 Internship Program

Position Type: Part-Time, Seasonal
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Hourly Rate: $20.00
Hours: Up to 25 hours per week
Duration: Approximately June 15 – August 14, 2026

About the City of Pacifica

The City of Pacifica operates under the Council–Manager form of government and provides a full range of municipal services to its residents. With an operating budget of approximately $47.3 million and a workforce of over 180 full-time employees, Pacifica is committed to responsive governance and community engagement.

Are you interested in gaining meaningful, hands-on experience in local government?

The City of Pacifica is excited to host approximately seven (7) Summer Interns across multiple departments. This program is designed to provide students with substantive project experience, professional mentorship, and exposure to the inner workings of municipal government. Unlike a general internship pool, each department will recruit for a specific opportunity aligned with its operational needs and professional focus. 

About the Program

The Summer Internship Program was developed in collaboration with the Next Generation Committee, sponsored by the City/County Managers Associations of San Mateo and Santa Clara Counties. The program supports the development of emerging professionals and promotes careers in local government.

The Summer Internship Program is tentatively scheduled to run from June 15, 2026 through August 14, 2026 (8 weeks). End date may be adjusted based on the intern's schedule and availability.

Selected applicants will be invited to interview during a tentative window of March 23 – April 3, 2026, with flexibility as needed.

The City anticipates finalizing offers by April 24, 2026 to allow adequate time for summer scheduling and coordination. Internships are part-time (up to 25 hours per week), seasonal, at-will, and non-benefited positions.

Why Apply?

• Meaningful Work: Interns contribute to real projects that impact the Pacifica community.
• Professional Development: Strengthen your research, writing, presentation, and analytical skills in a public sector setting.
• Mentorship & Networking: Work closely with City leadership and staff while building connections across departments.
• Career Exploration: Gain exposure to the breadth of career paths within local government.

About the City Manager's Office/City Clerk Summer Intern Opportunity

The City Manager’s Office and City Clerk’s Office internship provides an excellent opportunity for individuals interested in local government administration, public records management, and customer service. Under general supervision and mentorship, the intern will gain hands-on experience supporting executive-level operations while serving as a key point of contact for the public. This internship is ideal for a motivated and detail-oriented student who is interested in developing practical skills in municipal administration and public service. Interns will contribute to meaningful projects that support City Council priorities and enhance service delivery to the community.

Responsibilities May Include (but Are Not Limited To):

• Serving as first point of contact at the public counter and providing phone support
• Managing file inventory and assisting with public records requests
• Updating and organizing internal procedures and policy documentation
• Drafting and editing reports, correspondence, and promotional materials
• Assisting with implementation and tracking of City Council priorities
• Attending departmental, commission, and community meetings
• Researching, analyzing, and compiling best practices related to policies and programs

Education & Experience:

• Current undergraduate student majoring in Public Administration, Business Administration, History, Records Management, Political Science, or a related field preferred
• Completion of some college-level coursework required
• Interest in local government operations and public service
• Prior administrative or customer service experience is desirable but not required

Preferred Skills & Knowledge:

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Outlook, Word, PowerPoint)
• Familiarity with Adobe software (Acrobat, InDesign, Photoshop)
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Interest in public records management and municipal administration
• Ability to work independently while maintaining attention to detail
• Professional and courteous customer service skills

How to Apply: Candidates interested in applying for the position may submit their online application, cover letter and resume by March 15, 2026 at 11:59 PM PST. Candidates must submit a completed online application and upload a current resume through CalOpps. Applications that are incomplete or missing required materials will not be considered.

Equal Opportunity Employer: The City of Pacifica is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, medical condition, genetic information, pregnancy, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.

A Unique Opportunity

Known for its outstanding quality of life and small-town setting, the Town of Los Altos Hills is seeking an accomplished executive to become its new City Manager. The City Council is looking for a candidate who would be a good fit for the community, a strong leader for Town staff, and a successful partner with City Council. This top professional is expected to have strong leadership skills, effective interpersonal and communication skills, and a strong passion for public service. The selected City Manager will also need to have an inclusive management style combined with a hands-on approach to day-to-day operations. A thorough understanding of municipal finance, community planning, and public works is of high importance to the City Council.

This leader will thrive in an environment that embraces an entrepreneurial spirit and approach to local government, sets high expectations, and demands a high level of customer service and responsiveness. Additionally, this top executive will be a collaborative leader with exceptional interpersonal and communication skills. Known as a “people person,” this individual will value collaboration and strive for best practices in the delivery of services, while at the same time, invite and encourage community engagement. An open and approachable leadership style is strongly desired in order to relate well to a broad spectrum of stakeholders including elected officials, town commissions and committees, and an active community. This leader will welcome input and value contributions from all sources yet be able to guide the policymakers with a strong sense of purpose.

Summer 2026 Internship Program

Position Type: Part-Time, Seasonal
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Hourly Rate: $20.00
Hours: Up to 25 hours per week
Duration: Approximately June 15 – August 14, 2026

About the City of Pacifica

The City of Pacifica operates under the Council–Manager form of government and provides a full range of municipal services to its residents. With an operating budget of approximately $47.3 million and a workforce of over 180 full-time employees, Pacifica is committed to responsive governance and community engagement.

Are you interested in gaining meaningful, hands-on experience in local government?

The City of Pacifica is excited to host approximately seven (7) Summer Interns across multiple departments. This program is designed to provide students with substantive project experience, professional mentorship, and exposure to the inner workings of municipal government. Unlike a general internship pool, each department will recruit for a specific opportunity aligned with its operational needs and professional focus. 

About the Program

The Summer Internship Program was developed in collaboration with the Next Generation Committee, sponsored by the City/County Managers Associations of San Mateo and Santa Clara Counties. The program supports the development of emerging professionals and promotes careers in local government.

The Summer Internship Program is tentatively scheduled to run from June 15, 2026 through August 14, 2026 (8 weeks). End date may be adjusted based on the intern's schedule and availability.

Selected applicants will be invited to interview during a tentative window of March 23 – April 3, 2026, with flexibility as needed.

The City anticipates finalizing offers by April 24, 2026 to allow adequate time for summer scheduling and coordination. Internships are part-time (up to 25 hours per week), seasonal, at-will, and non-benefited positions.

Why Apply?

• Meaningful Work: Interns contribute to real projects that impact the Pacifica community.
• Professional Development: Strengthen your research, writing, presentation, and analytical skills in a public sector setting.
• Mentorship & Networking: Work closely with City leadership and staff while building connections across departments.
• Career Exploration: Gain exposure to the breadth of career paths within local government.

About the Administrative Services (ASD) Intern Opportunity

The Administrative Services Department (ASD) includes the City’s Finance, Information Technology (IT), and Human Resources (HR) divisions. Together, these divisions support the City’s internal operations by ensuring fiscal accountability, technological functionality, and effective workforce administration.

The ASD Intern will serve in a project management-focused role supporting departmental and cross-divisional initiatives. This internship is designed for a student who brings strong organizational skills, structured thinking, and demonstrated experience managing projects or coordinating complex assignments. The selected intern will assist with planning, tracking, documenting, and supporting implementation of strategic initiatives across ASD. This is an excellent opportunity for a candidate seeking hands-on exposure to project coordination within a public sector environment.

Responsibilities May Include (but Are Not Limited To):

• Assisting with development and tracking of project plans, timelines, milestones, and deliverables
• Monitoring progress of departmental and cross-divisional initiatives and preparing status updates
• Coordinating documentation, research, and follow-through related to strategic projects
• Supporting elements of the annual operating and capital budget processes through organized tracking and reporting
• Assisting with process improvement initiatives and workflow documentation
• Preparing reports, presentations, and briefing materials related to active projects
• Conducting research and analysis to support project-based decision-making
• Participating in meetings to observe and support project planning and implementation efforts

Education & Experience:

• Current undergraduate majoring in Public Administration, Business Administration, Finance, Accounting, Economics, or a related field
• Coursework in project management, budgeting, accounting, public finance, organizational leadership, or operations management preferred
• Demonstrated project management experience is strongly desired, including coordinating timelines, leading academic or team projects, tracking deliverables, or managing multi-step assignments
• Strong interest in local government operations and municipal finance

Preferred Skills & Knowledge:

• Familiarity with project management principles (ie: planning, milestone tracking, documentation, deliverable management)
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Ability to manage multiple projects or assignments simultaneously
• Analytical thinking and structured problem-solving skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel proficiency strongly preferred)
• Ability to synthesize complex information into clear written and visual formats
• Professional communication skills and ability to collaborate across divisions

How to Apply: Candidates interested in applying for the position may submit their online application, cover letter and resume by March 15, 2026 at 11:59 PM PST. Candidates must submit a completed online application and upload a current resume through CalOpps. Applications that are incomplete or missing required materials will not be considered.

Equal Opportunity Employer: The City of Pacifica is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, medical condition, genetic information, pregnancy, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.

City of San Mateo, Finance Department

Financial Analyst Summer Intern

The City of San Mateo Finance Department is looking for a Financial Analyst Summer Intern

THE POSITION:

The Finance Department has an opportunity for a Financial Analyst intern. The Department is responsible for the overall financial management of the City. Our team of 18 employees provides services in the areas of Accounting and Financial Reporting, Budget, Treasury, Purchasing, and Payroll. The intern will work directly with the Deputy Director of Finance and have an opportunity to assist with different areas of Finance in support of the City's 11 Departments as well as the San Mateo Consolidated Fire Department.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:  

• BA/BS Candidate 
• Strong analytical and quantitative skills; effective written and oral communication
• Experience conducting research and data analyses and experience with Excel
• Able to work independently with direction from supervisor
• Interest in learning more about a career in local government

DUTIES: The primary projects will most likely include the following: 

• Compile and analyze statistical data. Review data on Citywide revenues and expenses and make recommendations.
• Complete analysis on performance measures. Research performance measures best practices and work with staff to develop consistent and relevant performance measures for Department.
• Review and monitor contracts. Review Finance Department contracts and develop systems for tracking and monitoring contract compliance.
• In addition, the intern may work on a variety of other projects depending upon their time and interests.

Interview Process:

All applications will be reviewed for minimum qualifications. Highly qualified candidates will be contacted for an interview.

HOW TO APPLY:

Interested candidates should submit an official City of San Mateo employment application and supplemental questionnaire by March 16, 2026 on-line at www.calopps.org, or

 
Submit an official City of San Mateo application and supplemental questionnaire by March 16, 2026  to the City of San Mateo Human Resources Department, 330 W. 20th Avenue, San Mateo, CA 94403
 

Applications are being accepted for the position of Environmental Compliance Inspector I with the City of South San Francisco in the Public Works Department. 

APPLICATION DEADLINE:  FRIDAY, MARCH 13, 2026 AT 5:00 P.M. OR UPON RECEIPT OF THE FIRST 100 ONLINE APPLICATIONS, WHICHEVER OCCURS FIRST.

THE CITY OFFERS AN ATTRACTIVE BENEFIT PACKAGE, AS WELL AS CALPERS RETIREMENT PLAN AND SOCIAL SECURITY PARTICIPATION.

The Department:

The Water Quality Control Plant (WQCP) processes wastewater discharge for the cities of South San Francisco, San Bruno and the Town of Colma. The Water Quality Control Plant is a division of the Public Works Department staffed by 38 employees including: Plant Superintendent and Assistant Plant Superintendent of WQCP; Maintenance, Laboratory and Environment Compliance Supervisors; Senior Chemist; Chemist; Lead Plant Mechanics; Plant Mechanics; Lead Plant Operators; Plant Operators; Electricians; Senior Environmental Compliance Inspector; Environmental Compliance Inspectors, Utility Workers, and two Administrative Assistants.

Summer 2026 Internship Program

Position Type: Part-Time, Seasonal
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Hourly Rate: $20.00
Hours: Up to 25 hours per week
Duration: Approximately June 15 – August 14, 2026

About the City of Pacifica

The City of Pacifica operates under the Council–Manager form of government and provides a full range of municipal services to its residents. With an operating budget of approximately $47.3 million and a workforce of over 180 full-time employees, Pacifica is committed to responsive governance and community engagement.

Are you interested in gaining meaningful, hands-on experience in local government?

The City of Pacifica is excited to host approximately seven (7) Summer Interns across multiple departments. This program is designed to provide students with substantive project experience, professional mentorship, and exposure to the inner workings of municipal government. Unlike a general internship pool, each department will recruit for a specific opportunity aligned with its operational needs and professional focus. 

About the Program

The Summer Internship Program was developed in collaboration with the Next Generation Committee, sponsored by the City/County Managers Associations of San Mateo and Santa Clara Counties. The program supports the development of emerging professionals and promotes careers in local government.

The Summer Internship Program is tentatively scheduled to run from June 15, 2026 through August 14, 2026 (8 weeks). End date may be adjusted based on the intern's schedule and availability.

Selected applicants will be invited to interview during a tentative window of March 23 – April 3, 2026, with flexibility as needed.

The City anticipates finalizing offers by April 24, 2026 to allow adequate time for summer scheduling and coordination. Internships are part-time (up to 25 hours per week), seasonal, at-will, and non-benefited positions.

Why Apply?

• Meaningful Work: Interns contribute to real projects that impact the Pacifica community.
• Professional Development: Strengthen your research, writing, presentation, and analytical skills in a public sector setting.
• Mentorship & Networking: Work closely with City leadership and staff while building connections across departments.
• Career Exploration: Gain exposure to the breadth of career paths within local government.

About the IT Summer Intern Opportunity

The Information Technology (IT) Division supports the City’s technology infrastructure, cybersecurity practices, and digital service delivery across all departments. The IT Intern will gain hands-on experience in municipal technology operations, including systems support, hardware and software deployment, troubleshooting, and project-based technology initiatives. This internship is ideal for a student interested in pursuing a career in information systems, cybersecurity, network administration, or public sector technology. The intern will contribute to meaningful projects that enhance operational efficiency and service delivery throughout the organization.

Responsibilities May Include (but Are Not Limited To):

• Assisting with end-user technical support and help desk requests
• Supporting hardware and software installation, configuration, and maintenance
• Assisting with inventory management of IT equipment and assets
• Supporting cybersecurity best practices and internal compliance efforts
• Participating in system upgrades, testing, or implementation projects
• Assisting with documentation of IT procedures and workflows
• Supporting audio/visual setup for meetings and City events, as needed

Education & Experience:

• Current undergraduate student majoring in Information Technology, Computer Science, Information Systems, Cybersecurity, or a related field
• Coursework in networking, systems administration, cybersecurity, database management, or related areas preferred
• Prior technical support or internship experience is desirable but not required

Preferred Skills & Knowledge:

• Basic understanding of computer hardware, operating systems, and networking concepts
• Familiarity with Microsoft Windows environments and Office 365
• Interest in cybersecurity and data protection practices
• Strong troubleshooting and problem solving skills
• Ability to communicate technical concepts clearly to non technical users
• Organizational skills and attention to detail
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team

How to Apply: Candidates interested in applying for the position may submit their online application, cover letter and resume by March 15, 2026 at 11:59 PM PST. Candidates must submit a completed online application and upload a current resume through CalOpps. Applications that are incomplete or missing required materials will not be considered.

Equal Opportunity Employer: The City of Pacifica is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, medical condition, genetic information, pregnancy, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.

Summer 2026 Internship Program

Position Type: Part-Time, Seasonal
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Hourly Rate: $20.00
Hours: Up to 25 hours per week
Duration: Approximately June 15 – August 14, 2026

About the City of Pacifica

The City of Pacifica operates under the Council–Manager form of government and provides a full range of municipal services to its residents. With an operating budget of approximately $47.3 million and a workforce of over 180 full-time employees, Pacifica is committed to responsive governance and community engagement.

Are you interested in gaining meaningful, hands-on experience in local government?

The City of Pacifica is excited to host approximately seven (7) Summer Interns across multiple departments. This program is designed to provide students with substantive project experience, professional mentorship, and exposure to the inner workings of municipal government. Unlike a general internship pool, each department will recruit for a specific opportunity aligned with its operational needs and professional focus. 

About the Program

The Summer Internship Program was developed in collaboration with the Next Generation Committee, sponsored by the City/County Managers Associations of San Mateo and Santa Clara Counties. The program supports the development of emerging professionals and promotes careers in local government.

The Summer Internship Program is tentatively scheduled to run from June 15, 2026 through August 14, 2026 (8 weeks). End date may be adjusted based on the intern's schedule and availability.

Selected applicants will be invited to interview during a tentative window of March 23 – April 3, 2026, with flexibility as needed.

The City anticipates finalizing offers by April 24, 2026 to allow adequate time for summer scheduling and coordination. Internships are part-time (up to 25 hours per week), seasonal, at-will, and non-benefited positions.

Why Apply?

• Meaningful Work: Interns contribute to real projects that impact the Pacifica community.
• Professional Development: Strengthen your research, writing, presentation, and analytical skills in a public sector setting.
• Mentorship & Networking: Work closely with City leadership and staff while building connections across departments.
• Career Exploration: Gain exposure to the breadth of career paths within local government.

About the Community Development/Planning Summer Intern Opportunity

The Community Development Department fosters a vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable community through thoughtful planning, innovative development, and responsive public service. The department supports balanced growth, preservation of natural and cultural resources, and equitable access to housing, transportation, and economic opportunity. 

Comprised of the Building, Code Enforcement, and Planning Divisions – Community Development plays a central role in shaping Pacifica’s built environment and long-term vision. This internship is ideal for a student interested in urban planning, land use, sustainability, housing policy, or local government operations. Interns will gain hands-on experience supporting projects that directly influence how the community grows and evolves.

Responsibilities May Include (but Are Not Limited To):

• Assisting with research and analysis related to land use, zoning, and development projects
• Supporting review of planning applications and preparation of staff reports
• Assisting with data collection and documentation for housing, transportation, or sustainability initiatives
• Supporting Building Division efforts related to permit tracking, documentation, and public inquiries
• Assisting Code Enforcement staff with administrative case tracking and research
• Preparing public-facing materials related to development projects or community initiatives
• Attending Planning Commission or related public meetings to observe the local decision-making process
• Conducting research on best practices in planning, housing policy, or environmental sustainability

Education & Experience:

• Current undergraduate majoring in Urban Planning, Public Administration, Environmental Studies, Geography, Political Science, Architecture, Civil Engineering, or a related field
• Coursework in land use planning, sustainability, housing policy, public policy, or community development preferred
• Strong interest in local government and community planning
• Prior research, internship, or project experience related to planning, development, or public policy is desirable but not required

Preferred Skills & Knowledge:

• Understanding of basic land use and zoning concepts
• Strong research and analytical skills
• Ability to interpret and summarize technical information clearly
• Professional written and verbal communication skills
• Organizational skills and attention to detail
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite; familiarity with GIS or planning software is a plus

How to Apply: Candidates interested in applying for the position may submit their online application, cover letter and resume by March 15, 2026 at 11:59 PM PST. Candidates must submit a completed online application and upload a current resume through CalOpps. Applications that are incomplete or missing required materials will not be considered.

Equal Opportunity Employer: The City of Pacifica is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, medical condition, genetic information, pregnancy, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.

Summer 2026 Internship Program

Position Type: Part-Time, Seasonal
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Hourly Rate: $20.00
Hours: Up to 25 hours per week
Duration: Approximately June 15 – August 14, 2026

About the City of Pacifica

The City of Pacifica operates under the Council–Manager form of government and provides a full range of municipal services to its residents. With an operating budget of approximately $47.3 million and a workforce of over 180 full-time employees, Pacifica is committed to responsive governance and community engagement.

Are you interested in gaining meaningful, hands-on experience in local government?

The City of Pacifica is excited to host approximately seven (7) Summer Interns across multiple departments. This program is designed to provide students with substantive project experience, professional mentorship, and exposure to the inner workings of municipal government. Unlike a general internship pool, each department will recruit for a specific opportunity aligned with its operational needs and professional focus. 

About the Program

The Summer Internship Program was developed in collaboration with the Next Generation Committee, sponsored by the City/County Managers Associations of San Mateo and Santa Clara Counties. The program supports the development of emerging professionals and promotes careers in local government.

The Summer Internship Program is tentatively scheduled to run from June 15, 2026 through August 14, 2026 (8 weeks). End date may be adjusted based on the intern's schedule and availability.

Selected applicants will be invited to interview during a tentative window of March 23 – April 3, 2026, with flexibility as needed.

The City anticipates finalizing offers by April 24, 2026 to allow adequate time for summer scheduling and coordination. Internships are part-time (up to 25 hours per week), seasonal, at-will, and non-benefited positions.

Why Apply?

• Meaningful Work: Interns contribute to real projects that impact the Pacifica community.
• Professional Development: Strengthen your research, writing, presentation, and analytical skills in a public sector setting.
• Mentorship & Networking: Work closely with City leadership and staff while building connections across departments.
• Career Exploration: Gain exposure to the breadth of career paths within local government.

About the Economic & Housing Development Summer Intern Opportunity

The Economic & Housing Development Division advances initiatives that support fiscal sustainability, business vitality, housing production, and long-term community resilience. The Economic Development Intern will gain hands-on experience supporting business attraction and retention, marketing and tourism initiatives, special events, and strategic planning efforts aligned with the City’s adopted Economic Development Work Plan. This internship is ideal for a student interested in economic development, public policy, urban planning, communications, or community development. The intern will contribute to projects that directly support local businesses and enhance Pacifica’s commercial districts.

Responsibilities May Include (but Are Not Limited To):

• Assisting with creation of marketing and promotional materials to support local businesses and tourism efforts
• Supporting event planning and coordination for business-focused and community events
• Researching and identifying grant opportunities related to economic development, mobility, and placemaking initiatives
• Assisting with preparation of grant applications and supporting documentation
• Developing one-page informational materials for public distribution (ie: permitting guides, business resources, development summaries)
• Supporting social media and digital communications related to economic development initiatives
• Assisting with business visitation outreach and communication efforts
• Conducting research related to bike, pedestrian, and scooter mobility initiatives that support commercial districts
• Supporting data collection and analysis related to commercial vacancy, business trends, and district activation efforts

Education & Experience:

• Current undergraduate student majoring in Economics, Urban Planning, Public Administration, Business, Communications, Political Science, Marketing, or a related field
• Coursework in economic development, public policy, urban studies, marketing, transportation planning, or community development preferred
• Interest in municipal government and local economic sustainability
• Prior internship or project experience in communications, research, event coordination, or community engagement is desirable but not required

Preferred Skills & Knowledge:

• Strong written and visual communication skills
• Ability to translate complex policy or technical information into clear, public-facing materials
• Interest in small business support, placemaking, and commercial district vitality
• Research and analytical skills
• Experience or interest in social media and digital outreach
• Organizational skills and attention to detail
• Ability to work independently while collaborating across departments

How to Apply: Candidates interested in applying for the position may submit their online application, cover letter and resume by March 15, 2026 at 11:59 PM PST. Candidates must submit a completed online application and upload a current resume through CalOpps. Applications that are incomplete or missing required materials will not be considered.

Equal Opportunity Employer: The City of Pacifica is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, medical condition, genetic information, pregnancy, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.

City of San Mateo, Community Development Department, Planning Division

Planning Intern

The City of San Mateo Community Development Department is looking for a Planning Intern

The Department

The City of San Mateo is a progressive City that encourages staff and community engagement to develop positive solutions that meet the current and future needs of our community. You’ll be joining a talented team in a fast-paced, dynamic work environment dedicated to serving the San Mateo community. The Community Development Department’s core function is to ensure a quality commercial and residential environment, healthy neighborhoods, and a strong economic base that aligns with community objectives.

The Community Development Department’s Planning Division provides a broad range of services, including review of applications for current ­­­development and long-range planning.

The intern must have an interest in pursuing planning as a career and will gain practical experience to be competitive in the job market. Enthusiasm, respect, accountability, collaboration, critical thinking, willingness to learn are attributes we are seeking in the candidates.

This paid internship will involve supporting research regarding a variety of activities, and assignments performing duties and responsibilities related to the daily functions of Planning Division as required.

*Please visit our What’s Happening in Development page to review some of the exciting projects happening in San Mateo.
 

The Position

The Planning Intern will support the Community Development Department - Planning Division with research-based projects and assist staff with minor permit review. This internship is designed to provide hands-on experience in municipal planning, exposure to development review processes, and an understanding of how planning policies are implemented at the local level. The intern will work closely with planning staff and gain practical insight into zoning, land use regulations, and public-sector planning operations.

Duties: The primary projects will most likely include the following:

•    Conduct research related to land use planning, zoning regulations, and special planning initiatives
•    Assist planning staff with minor permit review
•    Help organize and analyze planning data, maps, and project materials
•    Prepare summaries and other written materials to support planning projects
•    Assist with updating planning documents, handouts, and internal resources
•    Participate in staff meetings and observe planning processes, as appropriate
•    Provide general administrative support to planning staff as needed

Minimum Qualifications

•    BA/BS Candidate in City Planning, Architecture, Public Policy or a similar discipline
•    Strong analytical, writing and verbal skills; effective written and oral communication
•    Interest in municipal planning and public-sector work
•    Familiarity with land use planning concepts or zoning regulations
•    Strong attention to detail and willingness to learn
 

Time Commitment

Flexible Schedule, up to 40 hours a week. Each intern is able to work a maximum of 1,000 hours per fiscal year.

Interview Process

All applications will be reviewed for minimum qualifications. Qualified candidates will be contacted for a virtual interview.

Compensation

$25.08 – 30.02 per hour