Join Ferguson Township as a full-Time Community Planner and be part of a dynamic team dedicated to shaping the future of our community. This role offers an exciting opportunity for municipal planners and GIS professionals to apply their expertise in a collaborative environment. You will work onsite, allowing for immediate impact and engagement with stakeholders and community members.

In addition to top-notch benefit offerings, the position offers a competitive salary ranging from $66,000 to $97,000 per year, reflecting your experience and contribution to enhancing the Township's infrastructure and services. This is a chance to develop your skills further, especially if you aspire to obtain your AICP credential.

FERGUSON TOWNSHIP: Our Mission

Ferguson Township, nestled in the scenic heart of Centre County, Pennsylvania, offers an exceptional blend of rural charm and urban convenience-making it an ideal place to live and work. Home to approximately 19,000 residents, the township boasts a strong sense of community, safe neighborhoods, and a commitment to preserving its natural beauty through extensive farmland conservation efforts. Residents enjoy access to top-rated public schools within the State College Area School District, numerous parks and recreational amenities, and a bike-friendly environment recognized by the League of American Bicyclists. With its proximity to downtown State College and Penn State University, Ferguson Township provides ample opportunities for cultural experiences, dining, and entertainment, all while maintaining the tranquility of its pastoral landscapes. Whether you're seeking a vibrant community or a peaceful retreat, Ferguson Township offers the best of both worlds.

We strive to maintain a professional, energetic, helpful, and knowledgeable team of individuals. Together we work to make Ferguson Township a better place to live, work, and play. Come join us!

What would you do as a Community Planner

The Community Planner at Ferguson Township plays a vital role in supporting the Planning & Zoning Department. The Community Planner will assist with both current and long-term planning and is primarily responsible for coordinating the plan review process, including review, tracking, distribution, communication, and organization. This position ensures that the zoning and subdivision and land development processes are consistent with the Comprehensive Plan and are compatible with corresponding sections of the Township code as well as the Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning Code. The Community Planner will endeavor to anticipate future trends based upon current and future demographics of the municipality and region.

What you need to be successful

To excel as a Community Planner at Ferguson Township, candidates should possess strong analytical skills to assess and interpret data related to current and future demographics. Effective communication skills are essential for liaising with stakeholders, coordinating plan reviews, and presenting findings clearly. Additionally, organizational skills are critical for managing multiple projects and ensuring the timely distribution of planning documents.

A creative problem-solving mindset is necessary to address community needs and anticipate future trends. Familiarity with zoning regulations and land development practices will enhance the planner's ability to ensure compliance with the Comprehensive Plan and relevant codes. Finally, a collaborative spirit and the ability to work effectively with the Planning & Zoning team will contribute to the overall success of projects and initiatives in the Township.

Please see the full job description for the full list of education and experience requirements.

Join our team today!

If you believe that this position matches your requirements and credentials, applying for it is easy! Just complete the fields to the right and upload your resume and we'll take it from there!

What employees are saying about working at Ferguson Township

Question: How would you describe the work environment and work culture at Ferguson Township? Response: "Very healthy, inclusive and employee focused.

"Everybody is incredibly friendly and helpful, which I appreciate. It makes everyone's job easier and more pleasant."

"The physical environment is quite satisfactory - very nice accommodations, and any issues that arise are addressed quickly. Fellow department and township employees are friendly and helpful."

"I think that Ferguson provides an inclusive environment and a positive work culture where employees are free to feel like individuals. The employee engagement events are a great way to help reinforce this, and provide employees from different departments to interact with each other which I really like."

"A great culture of professionalism and friendliness to support the work being done."

"Yes, [I feel comfortable asking questions and seeking help from colleagues] and I am encouraged to get to know more about what my colleagues do so we can collaborate."

"My position is fortunate because there is no micro-managing, and yet there's almost always a supervisor available should I need guidance or assistance. Having management have confidence in me that I will complete my job duties well and on-time and that I will seek them out when necessary is much appreciated."

"I enjoyed all of the employee engagement activities that I participated in! I felt there was a good mix of activities and there was always something to look forward to."

"What do I like most about working here? I enjoy my coworkers and working with the community/public."

Ferguson Township is proud to be an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. We seek to recruit and retain the most talented people from a diverse candidate pool and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees regardless of race, color, national origin, religion, pregnancy, parental status, sex (including gender, gender identity or expression, or sexual orientation), disability, marital status, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, past or present military service, or other non-merit factor.

Candidates for this position are subject to a background check and drug and alcohol screening as a condition of hire.