JOB DESCRIPTION

SWIPCO seeks someone passionate about improving the lives of rural Iowans to join our team as a Community Development Specialist - Planner. The ideal candidate must be caring and want to build the future of our region and be an active participant in change. All of the work is done in rural, small town settings and SWIPCO planners are expected to seek out and enjoy connecting with the community. At SWIPCO, planners are doers, and although traditional planning is at the core of the position, there are also many project management opportunities open to this position. From day one the incumbent will be immersed in multiple disciplines from disaster recovery, housing, recreation, to foundational services such as water, sewer, and broadband. This is a permanent, full-time career track position with excellent potential for growth.

SWIPCO is expanding to better serve our core clients, the cities and counties of the SWIPCO region. A background in planning is preferred but other disciplines will be considered, including but not limited to public administration, social work, environmental studies, political science, geography, and business administration. Most important to the position are the abilities to think and act quickly, prioritize work, research thoroughly, write effectively, and present information clearly. Types of work include but are not limited to: grant applications and management for infrastructure and housing projects, hazard mitigation planning, city zoning, comprehensive and strategic planning, and regional transportation planning.

Knowledge of federal funding programs such as FEMA and CDBG is ideal but training will be offered to the right person. The work station is at our Atlantic, Iowa offices and the position involves significant travel throughout the 8 county region. This is an entry level planner position, but experienced applicants would be strongly considered as well, and could be brought into the agency at a higher level. Salary range is $50,000 to $75,000 DOQ with an excellent benefits package including IPERS. If you have questions about the position please contact Executive Director John McCurdy at john.mccurdy@swipco.org.

Potential candidates should visit http://www.swipco.org/career-opportunities-rfp-s/ for more information. To apply submit a cover letter, application, resume, and three references to daurine.petersen@swipco.org. Application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, June 23, 2026.

BENEFITS

Medical, Paid Vacation, IPERS Retirement Employer, and more.