Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Intern

Job Description

Job Title: Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Intern

Job Req ID: 581

Division: Mapping & IT

Business Area: City Planning

Personnel Area: City Planning

Salary Range: $19.47 to $22.75 per hour

Job Type: Unclassified Internship

Closing Date: 01/22/2026

Position Overview

The Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Intern position within the City Planning Department offers a unique opportunity for students to gain hands-on experience in a dynamic environment. This internship is structured for up to 20 hours per week, totaling up to 800 hours, providing substantial engagement in critical projects. The intern will work under the supervision of a GIS Analyst II, contributing to various initiatives that support and enhance the department’s capabilities.

Key Responsibilities and Project Areas

This internship will involve engagement in a diverse range of projects, including:

• GIS & Data Management:
  • Support data editing and quality control for various planning datasets.
  • Assist with data governance for department-owned spatial datasets.
• GIS Analytics and Reporting:
  • Prepare and process spatial data using geoprocessing tools.
  • Prepare analytical reports or summaries utilizing tools such as Excel, PowerBI, or other relevant platforms.
• Process Improvement & Automation:
  • Contribute to streamlining the Community Plan Amendment process through the development of automation routines.
  • Help improve templates and workflows to ensure consistent and efficient planning deliverables.
• AI & Innovation:
  • Explore the use of generative AI tools (e.g., CoPilot) to enhance various departmental functions, including data processing, map creation, process documentation, and overall process improvements.
• Public Engagement Tools:
  • Assist with developing or enhancing StoryMaps and online viewers specifically for historic preservation initiatives and broader community engagement efforts.
• Professional Development:
  • Gain practical experience with industry-standard tools, including ArcGIS Pro, ArcGIS Online, and related Esri products.
  • Develop skills in working both independently and collaboratively, applying structured problem-solving techniques and demonstrating strong attention to detail.
  • Collaborate and participate in meetings with planners and other professional staff to discuss GIS requirements and deliverables.
  • Present and deliver findings and results to small teams, enhancing communication skills.

Ideal Candidate Profile

The ideal intern candidate will possess:

• Experience or a strong interest in city planning and GIS.
• A strong desire to learn and develop new skills.
• The ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• A keen ability to pay close attention to detail.

General Internship Program Overview – City of San Diego

The City of San Diego comprises more than 30 operational departments, offering project-based internship opportunities as they arise. Under general supervision, an internship provides part-time employment opportunities for students enrolled in a continuing education, traditional education, or training program to gain practical, hands-on experience related to their career interests or area of study.

Example of General Intern Duties (Vary by Department)

Duties and responsibilities assigned to interns will vary depending on the department; however, they may include but are not limited to:

• Assisting with planning events.
• Conducting research.
• Collecting and analyzing data.
• Assisting with various departmental projects.
• Preparing reports and presentations.
• Attending internal and external stakeholders’ meetings.
• Participating in field work.

All work will be project-based, temporary, and structured so as not to compromise the work of a bargaining unit employee.

Minimum Requirements

• Must be 15 ½ years of age or older.
• Must be a United States citizen or possess the current legal right to work in the United States.
• Must be enrolled in a continuing education, traditional education, or training program.
• Specific requirements may vary based on the department and the particular internship role.

Compensation & Benefits

This is a paid internship opportunity, offering an hourly rate consistent with Exhibit C of the Salary Ordinance and commensurate with an applicant’s education level.

Benefits include:

• Participation in the City’s Defined Benefit Plan administered by the San Diego City Employees’ Retirement System (SDCERS).
• Receipt of a free transit pass, valid for MTS Trolley, MTS Bus, and all Rapid and Rapid Express bus services.
• Accrual of paid sick leave while employed (eligible for use after 90 days of employment).

Please note: Interns are not eligible to receive paid vacation leave, paid holidays, and/or any type of City-sponsored insurance.