JOB DESCRIPTION

The Regional Commission is seeking a journey-level or advanced planner with experience in the areas of community development and transportation. Under supervision of the Director of Community Development, the Planner II-Senior Planner will assist in planning activities including the development of studies and plans, grant application and project development, and project management. A particular emphasis is placed on experience with rural local government and housing projects. The successful candidate must exhibit an ability to learn and work within multiple planning areas and work with staff, key stakeholders, and the public.

Typical Work Tasks

• Conducts studies, relating to a broad range of community development planning projects;
• Assists localities and development agencies in determining and activating projects and programs, securing funding and continuing operation and monitoring of programs;
• Provides assistance to the Director of Community Development in the coordination of the regional Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) and implementation of related economic development work;
• Researches topics related to special planning areas and prepares reports as required;
• Reviews and analyzes program proposals and may oversee the administration of grant programs, including grant preparation;
• Prepares program proposals, grant applications and contractual reports;
• Serves as a liaison with state and local offices, providing information and sharing related technical reports and presentations;
• Represents the Roanoke Valley-Alleghany Regional Commission at various meetings in a professional manner in presentations, meetings, and interactions with the public and elected and appointed officials;
• Works with the Community Development team to identify synergies in programs across planning areas, including environmental and hazard mitigation planning;
• Works with the Director of Community Development to identify opportunities for collaboration with other stakeholders and departments, such as transportation planning;
• Provides technical and management assistance to other agencies involved with planning activities;
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

The candidate must have:

• Knowledge of the theories, principals, practices and techniques of planning related to community development and housing;
• Ability to analyze and accurately compile in a systematic manner statistical and technical information;
• Ability to prepare clear, concise, and well-organized technical reports;
• Ability to present technical reports in a way that is accessible to stakeholders;
• Ability to proactively meet internal and external project deadlines;
• Strong written and oral communication skills.

The ideal candidate will also have:

• Knowledge of the current literature and recent developments in the region;
• Familiarity with Federal programs from EDA, ARC, HUD and others;
• Experience with CDBG programs and implementation grants.
• Familiarity with Virginia policies and agencies, including Virginia Housing, DHCD, and others.