The Regional Planning Commission of Greater Birmingham (RPCGB) is one of 12 regional councils throughout the State of Alabama. The agency provides technical assistance and planning services to Blount, Chilton, Jefferson, Shelby, St. Clair, and Walker counties, as well as the municipalities within those counties. Services cover a wide range of areas, including community and transportation planning, GIS mapping, data procurement and analysis, grant application assistance, and specialized market studies development.
The RPCGB’s Economic Development Department is responsible for assisting local communities within the six-county region identify their project priorities and equip leaders with the necessary information they need to apply for and obtain grant funds to complete projects and expand their potential. The ED Department consults with municipalities about available state and federal grant opportunities and assists them with the application and submission process. In addition, staff monitors economic conditions of the region, conducts specialized market studies, and coordinates EDA and ARC programs for the region. Please visit the RPCGB website atwww.rpcgb.org for more information.
Role Description:
The RPCGB is seeking dynamic and self-motivated Economic Development Intern to assist the Economic Development Department prepare for the full five-year update of the region’s Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS). In addition, the intern will be tasked with completing an independent project related to the objectives of the department. The scope and details of the project will be decided between the intern and the economic development team and will be based on the selected candidate’s specific skillset and interest. This position is viable for a 10-to-12-week term during the summer, from May to August 2021.
A successful candidate must pass the organization’s background screening process and possess a valid state driver’s license. Travel throughout six-county region may be required. Though RPCGB employees are currently working remotely, it is preferable the candidate live within the Greater Birmingham area, as there are expected to be some in-person meetings (with safety protocols from the CDC in place), during the tenure of the summer.
Anticipated Responsibilities:
- Provide analytical and technical support as part of the economic development team in the planning and preparation of the CEDS revision process
- Assist with program-specific projects through data collection and analysis and report generation
- Work with supervisor to develop goals and desired outcomes for internship
- Assist with the development/creation of reports and/or promotional or informative materials, including flyers and brochures for CEDS process and public engagement materials
- Assist with researching and compiling funding opportunities and other resource tools for local governments
- Provide support for Economic Development Department
- Other duties as assigned
Education:
A senior undergraduate student pursuing a bachelor’s degree in political science, public administration, economics, or a related field, or a graduate student seeking a master’s degree in public administration or related field. An equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities may be considered.
Relevant Skills and Experience:
· Proactive and self-motivated worker who takes initiative; a self-starter
· Ability to balance various assignments, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines
· Ability to interact professionally with staff and associates
· Strong analytical, critical thinking, and communication skills
· Strong research skills; has experience analyzing data and drawing conclusions
· Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite programs, specifically Excel and Word
· Good time management and organizational skills
· Ability to think and problem solve creatively and independently
· Experience with Adobe products, such as Acrobat or InDesign, is preferred but not required
Compensation:
This position will be paid $10 to $12 an hour based on experience, with an expected work week consisting of 30 hours.
Application Instructions:
Applicants should send a cover letter expressing interest and reasons for applying, a detailed résumé, and two references to Jesslan Wilson, Economic Development Specialist, at jwilson@rpcgb.org. Position will remain open until filled. Interested applicants are encouraged to apply early.
If you have any questions regarding this application announcement, please email Marley Hicks, Economic Recovery Coordinator, atmhicks@rpcgb.org.