Community Planning Intern

Location: Flexible within Maine | Time Commitment: 16–20 hours / week | Pay: $20 / hour

Are you passionate about land use, economic and community development, and the future of Maine’s towns and cities? Join a small but mighty planning consultancy making a big impact across the state.

We’re seeking a Community Planning Intern to support a wide range of projects focused on shaping vibrant, future-ready communities throughout Maine. You’ll gain hands-on experience in all aspects of planning by working directly with the Owner + Principal Planner, local governments, and community members from tight-knit rural villages and large college towns.

What You’ll Do

• Assist in research, data collection, and analysis for planning projects statewide

• Prepare maps, graphics, and written content for reports and public presentations

• Attend client meetings and public workshops (in-person, about once per month or more, depending on the intern’s interest and availability)

• Contribute to community engagement strategies, including surveys and public outreach

• Compile potential funding sources for identified community projects

• Collaborate on innovative solutions to real-world planning challenges

What We’re Looking For

• Current student or recent graduate in urban planning, environmental science, geography, public policy, economics, political science, or a related field. Any undergraduate or graduate student with an understanding of planning principles is encouraged to apply! 

• Strong written, verbal, and graphic communication skills

• Curious, collaborative, and ready to roll up your sleeves

• Passion for Maine communities and interest in working across diverse geographies with vastly differing population needs

• Experience with ArcGIS, Canva, Adobe Creative Suite, and/or data visualization tools is a plus

Details

• Flexible schedule (16–20 hours/week, depending on availability)

• Remote work is the norm, with occasional travel for in-person meetings and events (given the need for occasional in-person attendance, interns should reside in Maine for the fall semester)

• Start date: September 2nd, 2025

• Paid internship for the entirety of the fall semester, with potential for extension of internship or future employment

About IOV Community Planning + Consulting

IOV Community Planning + Consulting was formed in 2022 out of a passion for providing high-quality planning assistance to Maine’s towns and cities. The approach blends values-based public engagement with data-driven technical expertise. Since then, IOV has expanded to provide general community development consulting services (including grant-writing, strategic economic development, historic preservation, and design guidance). More information, including a sampling of past projects, is available at iovplanning.com 

This intern will be the first formal hire at our growing firm – this is a rare opportunity to help shape the direction of a small, dynamic company doing meaningful work across Maine.

To Apply

Send a cover letter and resume in PDF format to isabelle@iovplanning.com with “Fall Internship Application” in the subject line. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted promptly for a preliminary Zoom interview.