Regional Planner

Job Summary. 

Performs professional work in Region 1 Planning Council’s planning department. Work varies on transportation, land use, comprehensive, environmental, and sustainability projects. Work is performed under the general supervision of the Director of Planning.

Illustrative Essential Duties. The Regional Planner investigates, analyzes, documents, and leads ongoing short- and long-range planning efforts. Must possess strong writing skills, prepare recommendations, and perform research, planning and technical analysis for projects. Planning Responsibilities
 

Develops and leads planning studies and reports in support of new and updated plans, programs, and regulations; including but not limited to transportation working documents, comprehensive plans, and corridor studies.

Collects a variety of statistical data and prepare reports and maps on topics such as census information, land use, tax base data, and occupancy rates.

Utilize geographic information systems (GIS) to analyze data, produce reports and visually display regional demographic, land use, economic, public transit and other transportation infrastructure data.

Communicate and coordinate with state, federal, and local agencies in developing planning documents, funding proposals, and sub-area studies.

Analyze linkages between the transportation system, land use, demographic and economic adjustments; at all times connecting the above planning elements to economic impacts.

Participate on cross-collaborative teams in long-range, corridor, and redevelopment studies.

Maintain knowledge of changes in federal, state, and local planning laws.

Actively consult on transportation, environmental, and comprehensive planning and economic development functions of the R1.

Assist in data collection and analysis for performance-based planning.

Maintain and prepare records and documentation necessary for certifying the planning process for conformance with applicable State, Federal and local guidelines and regulations.

Prepare progress reports and other related status information.
Board and Committee Responsibilities 

 Based on project assignments, serves as staff support interacting with governing board, policy and technical committees, and advisory committees.
 

Other
•Maintains a professional office setting through cleanliness, organization, and demeanor

•Works collaboratively with others to ensure the success and achievement by colleagues in the fulfillment of R1 priorities Supervision Received Work is performed under the general supervision of the Director of Planning. Specific tasks and work direction for planning documents and projects may be assigned through project leads with considerable latitude and independence for carrying out tasks and assignments to completion. Additional guidance is provided through R1 policies and procedures. Work is reviewed through reports and meetings for timely accomplishment of tasks and annually for overall results achieved. Special projects or situations may be reviewed in progress and at conclusion. Supervision Exercised Supervision may be a responsibility of this position, based on performance. Working Conditions and Special Demands Work is performed primarily in an office setting, although work activities require attending meetings or field inspections that involve travel throughout the area. Occasional field inventory and data collection work may be required. 

Success Factors Critical knowledge and fundamental skills required for the position, include:
•Excellent interpersonal and written communication skills

Ability to prepare and present reports and presentations

Exercises initiative to problem-solve, develop plans, and follow-through Ability to appropriately prioritize responsibilities and meet deadlines

Work collaboratively with others to ensure the success and achievement of team members in the fulfillment of R1 priorities and adapt as the organization develops and evolves

Maintains reasonable and predictable attendance

Expert in ESRI ArcGIS, Microsoft Office, including Word, Excel, Outlook, Access, PowerPoint

Education, Training, Experience: 

Assists in the set-up and preparation for meetings.

Master's degree with two years of experience in the planning profession or a bachelor's degree and four years of professional planning experience. 

Exceptions based on performance.

Annual completion of Open Meetings Act and Freedom of Information Act training required.

Necessary Special Requirements

Drug screening and background check

Region 1 Planning Council is an equal opportunity employer.