Be part of The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce team; join our multifaceted organization as we touch nearly every aspect of our community.  Focused on attracting, growing, and sustaining businesses, The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce is the largest business network in northeastern Pennsylvania!

In addition to traditional Chamber services, such as networking, referrals, and cost-saving programs, we support economic development and guide workforce development initiatives in the Greater Scranton area.  We are an organization dedicated to making Lackawanna County a unique and successful place to work, live, invest, and play!  Your internship will focus on initiatives that are innovative and will help Lackawanna County continue to grow as the hotspot of Northeastern Pennsylvania.  Working in partnership with property owners, businesses, other non-profits, and government leaders, you will play hands-on- role in identifying needs, developing strategies, shaping public policy, and implementing programs to strengthen the economic vitality of Lackawanna County!

The purpose of the Economic Development Intern position is to encourage and promote interest in local community development by providing the individual with learning opportunities and practical experience.  The Intern will gain experience in local economic development, as well as play a role in managing significant projects.

Logistics:

• Starting Date: Option to start immediately during the spring semester or at the start of summer (May/June)
• Duration: Through Summer (August 2023)
• Hours: Flexible – 9am to 4pm (with a 1 hour lunch) or 8am to 3pm (with a 1-hour lunch)
  • *Schedule will be flexible with the student’s schedule during the Spring semester
• Pay: $12.50/hr
• Location: 222 Mulberry Street Scranton, PA 18501

Position Description – What You Will Learn

The Economic Development Internship is structured to provide the Intern with substantial – and transferrable – skills and experience to progress professionally and personally.  The Intern will be involved in priority initiatives and gain experience working with a diverse set of stakeholders across multiple sectors (city government, public-private partnerships, private business, and community organizations).  Working alongside the Director of Facilities & Asset Management, Director of Economic Development, and Economic Development Specialist, the Intern will develop essential skills and experiences as they work on the planning, development, and implementation of projects identified in the Strategic Plan.

The Intern will also gain professional and personal experience while engaging in the community at large.  They will attend meetings with the Economic Development team, professional networking events, and informal social opportunities in the Greater Scranton area.  The goal is for the Intern to gain a comprehensive and authentic experience working for and serving a diverse community. 

The Economic Development Internship is ideal for undergraduate students seeking careers in economic & community development, urban development, policy & politics, or real estate.  The program is designed for ambitious individuals seeking not only to build a strong resume but also to make an impact on the community as they further develop important skills critical to a successful career.

Scope of Work – What You Will Actually Do

The Economic Development Intern will work with the Economic Development team to conduct research and develop initiatives with diverse stakeholders in support of The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce’s economic development efforts.  Additionally, the Economic Development Intern will gain an understanding of real estate management and construction, in support of initiatives led by the Director of Facilities & Asset Management.

Workplace Experience

• Accompany Economic Development team in meetings, activities, and programs related to The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce’s economic development initiatives;
• Accompany Economic Development team in prospect meetings, site tours, and business outreach activities;
• The Intern will make a substantial contribution to successfully carrying out The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce’s Economic Development Plan;
• Support the Director of Facilities & Asset Management with day-to-day operations of Chamber-owned buildings and land.

Research and Data Compilation

• Assist the Economic Development team in updating our database of properties and associated databases;
• The intern will be tasked with projects including inventory and inventory management.
  
  

Preferred Qualifications

• Undergraduate students currently enrolled or recently graduated from an accredited, 4-year undergraduate institution and major/concentration in Economics, Business Administration, Political Science, Planning/Urban Studies, Community/Regional Planning, Entrepreneurship, Marketing, Social Science, Political Science, Public Administration, Government/Law, or the like.
• Strong interests in cities and community development, urban development, real estate, business, public policy or economics.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Word and Excel.
• Ability to work cooperatively, performing duties with tact, diplomacy, and discretion.
• Have strong interpersonal and written communication skills
• Must strive to promote a cooperative atmosphere and exhibit a proactive and positive attitude
• Be an ambitious, self-starter seeking to use the opportunity to develop both personally and professionally, gain new perspectives and experiences, and make a lasting impact on the community in which they are living.
• Passionate about the future growth and success of Northeastern Pennsylvania and the Greater Scranton area!

 The Economic Development team operates as a highly interactive, collaborative department.  The ideal candidate enjoys working in a dynamic, fast-paced, team environment. The Intern is welcomed as an integral member of the team while remaining independently productive on projects and initiatives.  The Intern is expected to demonstrate a high level of professionalism and dedication to projects and initiatives.