Park Planning & Design Intern

About the role#

The Office of Park Planning and Design (OPPD) within the City of Atlanta Department of Parks and Recreation is seeking a design intern. This role involves full integration into project teams, supporting the oversight of the citywide park system, facility planning, land acquisition, and capital improvement projects. The internship lasts between 3 and 12 months.

What you'll do#

• Assist in the completion, planning, and design of park projects.
• Collaborate with designers and project managers on project outreach and community engagement efforts.
• Conduct inventory, assessment, and analysis of existing parks and facilities.
• Assist in the planning, scoping, and budgeting of design concepts.
• Draft and render design concepts using industry-standard software.
• Collect data and metrics for park projects and contribute to design discussions.
• Attend departmental and project meetings, serving as a department representative when interacting with partners, community members, and contractors.

What you'll need#

• A Bachelor’s Degree in City Planning, Architecture, Landscape Architecture, Urban Design, Engineering, or Construction Management. Candidates currently pursuing a master’s degree in a related field are preferred.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, and project management software like Procore, Bluebeam, or Monday.
• Proficiency in drafting and rendering tools such as Adobe Creative Suite, ArcGIS, AutoCAD, Lumion, and 3D modeling software like Rhino or SketchUp.
• Ability to perform physical tasks, including lifting, driving, and walking park trails with varying topography.
• A cover letter detailing your career goals and your relationship with public parks.
• Ability to pass criminal and child protective background checks and a drug screening.

Location & details#

• Location: Atlanta, Georgia.
• Work Modality: On-site (60% office, 40% outdoor field work).
• Term: Summer 2026.
• Status: Full-time and paid.