Planning Intern

Job Description

About Company

Toole Design is a leading, purpose-driven firm specializing in sustainable multimodal transportation design, dedicated to creating safer, more connected communities where streets move people, not just cars. Recognized as an ENR Top 500 design firm, Toole Design comprises a team of planners, designers, engineers, and landscape architects who believe that streets should work for everyone.

The company fosters a collaborative and inclusive culture where expertise thrives, and the growth and advancement of its team members are actively supported through mentorship by thought leaders and industry experts. Toole Design is committed to undertaking projects that improve lives through safe, inclusive design rooted in ethics, empathy, and equity. The firm proudly maintains one of the lowest turnover rates in the industry.

Toole Design is a woman-owned, equal opportunity employer and strongly encourages a diverse range of applicants, including women and individuals from underrepresented communities (people of color, LGBTQIA+, immigrants, first-generation college students/graduates, those with disabilities, and all intersections in between). The company is proud that 50% of its managers are women, demonstrating a commitment to diverse leadership that mirrors the communities it serves. Their offices are intentionally located to be bikeable, walkable, and transit-friendly, reflecting the infrastructure they help design.

Job Description: Planning Intern (Summer 2026)

Toole Design is seeking a Planning Intern to join its Columbus team for the summer of 2026. This paid internship program is designed to provide real-world experience with meaningful work within a typical schedule of 8-12 weeks.

What You’ll Do:
As an intern, you will be fully embedded in project teams, working alongside planners, engineers, and landscape architects, contributing to active projects from day one. Responsibilities may include:
• Prepping graphics for new intersection designs.
• Analyzing pedestrian survey data.
• Helping to create materials for public meetings.
• Assisting in facilitating public engagement efforts.
Interns work on a diverse range of projects, including:
• Multimodal corridor studies.
• Safe Routes to School initiatives.
• Vision Zero projects.
• Transit planning.
• Wayfinding.
• Developing national guidance for the Federal Highway Administration.

Why You’ll Love Working Here:
• A collaborative, inclusive culture where your growth and advancement are actively supported.
• The chance to explore your interests, share ideas, and learn from experts.
• Working on projects that improve lives through safe, inclusive design rooted in ethics, empathy, and equity.
• Opportunity to join a community of interns across the country, fostering collaboration on shared projects and technical skill development.
• Mentorship from thought leaders and industry experts.

Compensation & Schedule:
• Salary Range: $17.50 to $22 per hour.
• Work Schedule: Generally 40 hours per week, with four days in the office and the option to work from home on Fridays.
• Office Location: Columbus, Ohio (bikeable, walkable, and transit-friendly).

What You Bring (Requirements):
• Education:
• Undergrads: In your third year or higher of an urban planning, landscape architecture, urban design, engineering, public health, or related field.
• Grad Students: Enrolled in an urban planning, landscape architecture, urban design, public health, or related graduate program.
• Recent Grads: A degree in urban planning, landscape architecture, urban design, public health, or a related field.
• Skills:
• Ability to quickly pick up new concepts, skills, and programs.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office suite.
• Experience using spatial data software such as QGIS or ArcGIS.
• Experience in graphic design, layout, and production using InDesign and other programs in the Adobe Creative Suite.
• Passion: A strong passion for active transportation.

Application Details:
• Application Close Date: January 5, 2026.
• Chris Kelleher Memorial Fund: This fund provides housing assistance to interns based on available funds and financial needs. Application information will be provided to all hired interns in the spring.
• Contact: For questions, assistance, or accommodations, please contact HR@tooledesign.com or call 301-927-1900, option 5.