Senior Planning Associate

Job Description

Job Description

Position Summary:

The Senior Planning Associate leads complex municipal and land use planning projects with an emphasis on regulatory compliance, environmental stewardship, and sustainable development. This position is responsible for managing high-level planning and zoning initiatives, conducting detailed technical and environmental analyses, and guiding applicants and municipalities through regulatory review processes.

The role requires independent judgment, strong project management skills, and frequent interaction with municipal officials, applicants, developers, and the public. The ideal candidate brings significant municipal and/or consulting experience, demonstrates technical expertise in land use and environmental review, and plays a key role in expanding MRB Group’s community planning practice through client development and staff mentorship.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Lead and manage complex land use and development applications, including site plan review, subdivisions, rezonings, variances, and special/conditional use permits.
• Perform detailed technical and regulatory reviews of development applications, plans, and supporting documentation.
• Prepare clear, concise staff reports and present findings and recommendations to Planning Boards, Zoning Boards of Appeals, and other municipal boards.
• Attend and participate in Planning, Zoning, and public meetings, including evening meetings as required.
• Analyze complex zoning, comprehensive planning, and environmental issues and provide strategic guidance to municipal clients.
• Conduct and manage environmental reviews in accordance with local and state requirements and NEPA requirements.
• Facilitate meetings with municipal staff, elected officials, developers, property owners, and community stakeholders.
• Lead, manage, and contribute to zoning code updates, comprehensive plans, and other municipal policy initiatives.
• Mentor and support junior planning staff and collaborate with multidisciplinary project teams across MRB Group.
• Assist in business development efforts, client relationship management, and expansion of the firm’s planning services.