The City of Long Beach Department of Economic Development and Opportunity (EDO) is now accepting applications for its third cohort of the Long Beach Urban Planning and Design Internship Program.
The internship is a paid initiative designed to provide college students with real-world experience in urban planning, design, architecture and civic engagement.
Led by EDO’s Long Beach Workforce Innovation Network (LBWIN) Youth Services Center and partnerships with Long Beach Community Design Center and Civic Confidence LLC, the program delivers an eight-month experience designed to cultivate the next generation of civic and community leaders, which brings in hands-on projects, interactive workshops and mentorship opportunities.
“Great cities are shaped by people who bring new ideas, fresh perspectives and a vision for what is possible,” Mayor Rex Richardson said in a public statement. “By welcoming more voices into these conversations today, we are helping build a stronger, more inclusive and sustainable Long Beach for tomorrow.”
The two previous cohorts have had 20 emerging professionals whose work contributed to the City’s planning efforts and several graduates who have transitioned into full-time roles across planning, design, civic engagement and public service.
“Long Beach is investing in the next generation of talent by creating meaningful opportunities for young people to learn, explore and contribute to the future of our city,” said EDO Director Bo Martinez. “Building on the success of our first two cohorts, this Program will offer youth firsthand experience in urban planning and design. We’re excited to continue creating pathways that connect young people to careers where they can make a lasting impact.”
The program is open to those ages 18 to 30 who are currently enrolled in a community college or university program in urban planning, architecture or related fields. Participants will be compensated $22 per hour for a maximum of 500 hours and interns will be placed at worksites such as the City’s Community Development Department, local nonprofits and private firms.
Priority will be given to Long Beach residents and students who reside in low-income or underserved communities.
For additional information about the Program and other youth and adult employment services, you can contact Reza Perl, Youth Programs Specialist, at 562-570-4577 or Reza.Perl@longbeach.gov. To learn more about youth employment services, interested individuals may visit longbeach.gov/youthservices.
Additional eligibility details are available on the Program website.
