Intern, Planning & Analysis

Job Description

College Intern – Planning & Analysis

Under direct supervision, the College Intern supports OCTA’s transportation planning initiatives by assisting with research, document review, and project coordination. This internship provides valuable hands-on experience working with planning professionals on transportation studies, environmental documentation, and planning projects that shape mobility across Orange County.

You will perform a variety of professional entry-level duties related to your major field of study and the sponsoring department's current business operations. As a College Intern, you will be exposed to OCTA's career opportunities in the transportation industry. You will gain deeper awareness of transportation's many facets through your OCTA orientation, projects and teams, and internal networking.

OCTA's College Intern Program is a year-round paid student/intern program. You will gain real world work experience on meaningful projects under the guidance of a transportation professional. You will have the opportunity to use problem solving, communication and decision-making skills as you gain valuable work experience. You will also work with a mentor and benefit from career counseling.

The pay range is from $19.00 - $22.00 per hour depending on your education level. This position is not eligible for employee benefits. The work schedule will consist of approximately 20 hours a week, not to exceed 1,000 hours within a continuous 12 month period.

This posting will remain open until filled.

What You’ll Do

• Support ongoing multimodal transportation planning projects, including long-range planning, and corridor studies
• Review environmental documents, technical studies, and planning reports; summarize key findings, identify potential issues, and assist in coordinating internal comments.
• Assist with data collection, research, and analysis related to transportation trends, land use, safety, sustainability, and mobility.
• Assist with gathering and evaluation of bicycle, e-bicycle and pedestrian regulations, ordinances, and other legislation.
• Assist in active transportation studies including corridor studies, regional plans, NEPA and CEQA documentation, and feasibility studies.
• Assists in development of education, outreach and engagement activities related to Safe Routes to School, bicycles, pedestrians, micro-mobility, and e-bikes.
• Contribute to preparation of maps, graphics, and presentation materials for internal meetings, public workshops, and stakeholder engagement efforts.
• Draft and edit memoranda, letters, briefing materials, and sections of technical reports.
• Attend meetings, workshops, and committee presentations to gain exposure to agency planning processes and interagency coordination.
• Proactively communicate with staff to stay informed on ongoing planning activities and identify opportunities to contribute meaningfully to team projects.

What We’re Looking For

• Currently enrolled full-time college student (Freshman, Sophomore, Junior, or Senior) at an accredited two- or four-year college or university
• Pursuing an undergraduate or graduate degree in Transportation Planning, Urban Planning, Public Administration, Engineering, Public Policy, Finance, or a related field
• Minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher
• Strong analytical and organizational skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication abilities
• Ability to manage multiple assignments in a fast-paced environment

Why You’ll Love It Here

• Gain real-world experience in transportation planning and policy
• Work on projects that influence mobility and infrastructure development
• Collaborate with experienced planners and transportation professionals
• Build valuable research, writing, and analytical skills
• Explore career opportunities in transportation and public service
• Build a strong foundation for a career in public service or infrastructure development

Join a team where innovation, integrity, and strategic thinking are valued.
Apply now to gain meaningful experience and help shape the future of transportation funding and capital programming at OCTA.

OCTA is an equal employment opportunity employer that recruits, hires, and promotes qualified people without regard to race, color, religion, creed, ancestry, national origin, age, sex, pregnancy, gender, gender identity and/or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, medical condition, disability, genetic information, military and veteran status, or any other legally protected status.