JOB DESCRIPTION

Location: Fairfield, ME, with frequent time spent out of office and work from home flexibility available.

Classification: Full time, permanent (dependent on future funding)

Kennebec Valley Council of Governments (KVCOG) is a community nonprofit organization that provides planning and economic development assistance to the towns in Kennebec, Somerset, and part of Waldo County. KVCOG is accepting applications for a Community/Land Use Planner to join our team. We will consider applications from all experience levels.

NATURE AND SCOPE OF WORK:

The Community/Land Use Planner works closely and collaboratively with KVCOG's current planning staff. The position of Community/Land Use Planner is responsible for providing technical and administrative support to municipal and regional entities on a broad array of topics relating to land use planning, community development, zoning administration, as well as environmental and infrastructure topics.

This position works with the planning team on research, data analysis, public engagement, and preparation of planning documents. The Community/Land Use Planner works independently and interacts regularly with the other planning staff, municipal boards and officials, the public, and partner entities.

The Community/Land Use Planner will oversee and administer assigned projects and programs, including responsibilities related to contracts, budgeting, monitoring, review, and reporting, as directed by the Executive Director. GIS experience is desirable but not required.

The position operates under the general supervision of the Senior Planner and Executive Director. Work is evaluated through observation, regular staff discussions, review of reports, and assessment of outcomes.

JOB REQUIREMENTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Planning & Technical Assistance

• Provide technical community and land use planning assistance to municipal officials by phone, in writing, and in person.
• Draft and update comprehensive plan chapters, municipal ordinances, and related planning documents.
• Conduct research and analyze demographic, economic, environmental, and land use data.
• Prepare reports, presentations, and other materials using GIS and standard office software.
• Stay informed on new legislation and maintain up-to-date training relevant to planning and land use.

Community Engagement & Education

• Host and participate in public meetings, workshops, and community engagement activities, including evening meetings.
• Deliver education and training to local officials through workshops, direct assistance, and written materials.
• Communicate effectively with other KVCOG staff, municipal officials, the public, and stakeholder groups.

Project & Program Management

• Collaborate and coordinate with KVCOG staff, municipal officials, local boards and committees, regional partners, and state agencies.

Other Duties

• Perform related duties and additional tasks as assigned.

MANDATORY QUALIFICATIONS:

Education & Experience

• A minimum of a four-year college degree is required, preferably in Planning, Geography, Environmental Studies, Public Policy, or a related field. Considerable experience in planning and development is desirable, but the right candidate can be trained.

Communication & Interpersonal Skills

• Strong oral and written communication skills, including the ability to clearly and effectively present technical information and planning concepts to diverse audiences.
• Strong presentation, public speaking, and facilitation skills, with the ability to lead group and committee discussions to achieve well-defined, productive outcomes.
• Skilled at establishing and maintaining productive professional relationships with officials and colleagues across public and private agencies.

Research & Analytical Skills

• Working knowledge of research methods and strong analytical skills, including the ability to conduct projects involving demographic, economic, and other analyses using Census and related data sources.

Organization & Project Management

• Strong organizational skills with the ability to prioritize and manage multiple projects efficiently under tight deadlines.
• Ability to coordinate multiple tasks and meet deadlines.

Work Conditions & Travel

• Willingness to travel, primarily within central Maine, and attend frequent evening meetings, using a personal vehicle for business travel (mileage reimbursed).

DESIREABLE QUALIFICATIONS:

Technical & Planning Knowledge

• Working knowledge of the principles, practices, and applications of community and regional planning, municipal land use planning, design, development, and related fields.
• Working knowledge of the principles, practices, and applications of transportation planning.
• General familiarity with Federal and State legislation, programs, regulations, and procedures related to planning.
• Proficiency with GIS is desirable but not required.

Experience

• Experience working with municipalities and state agencies is strongly preferred.

This is a full-time, exempt position with a comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, vision and life insurance. Short-term disability, paid time off, 13 paid holidays per year, 403(b) & MainePERS pension plan with agency match, flexible/remote work schedules, and more. Compensation is commensurate with experience. KVCOG is an Equal Opportunity Employer. (Salary range is 58K to 62K based on experience.)

Application should include a cover letter and resume and should emailed to the search committee at info@kvcog.org. Questions may also be emailed to this address.