Planning and Sustainability Initiatives Coordinator

Job Title

Sustainable Development Planner

Job Description

Performs professional planning work with an emphasis on sustainable development, land use, zoning, environmental planning, climate resiliency, housing, and community development. Coordinates planning activities to ensure that development and City initiatives are consistent with and advance the City's Comprehensive Plan, Social Equity Plan, and Climate Action Plan. The position works collaboratively with City departments, residents, businesses, developers, Oberlin College, community organizations, consultants, and regional partners. The position exercises professional judgment and works with a high degree of independence.

Primary Job Duties

- Performs professional planning work related to land use, zoning, development, redevelopment, housing, transportation, infrastructure, open space, and environmental protection.

- Coordinates implementation of planning initiatives identified in the City's Comprehensive Plan, Social Equity Plan, and Climate Action Plan, helping ensure that planning, development, and infrastructure decisions reflect the goals of all three plans.

- Reviews development proposals, site plans, subdivisions, zoning applications, and other planning matters and prepares professional analysis and recommendations.

- Supports land-use strategies that encourage compact growth, protect natural resources, reduce sprawl, and promote sustainable development.

- Supports planning initiatives that expand housing opportunities, improve neighborhood conditions, and promote equitable access to housing, transportation, parks, and other community amenities.

- Develops and implements sustainability and climate initiatives, including energy efficiency, renewable energy, greenhouse gas reduction, resource conservation, waste reduction, water conservation, and climate resiliency.

- Coordinates assigned sustainability and planning projects involving multiple City departments, consultants, and community partners.

- Conducts research and analyzes demographic, housing, economic, land-use, environmental, energy, transportation, and infrastructure data.

- Provides technical and staff support to the Planning Commission, Board of Zoning Appeals, City Council, and other boards and commissions as assigned.

- Prepares staff reports, presentations, maps, studies, grant applications, correspondence, and other planning materials.

- Assists with community engagement, public meetings, educational programs, and stakeholder outreach related to planning and sustainability.

- Research and assists with grants and other funding opportunities supporting planning, housing, sustainability, infrastructure, and community development.

- Responsible for the administration and implementation of assigned sustainability programs, including the Sustainable Reserve Fund.

- Coordinates with other City departments to identify opportunities to better integrate the City's adopted plans into daily operations and project decisions.

- Performs other related duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Urban Planning, City or Regional Planning, Geography, Environmental Studies, Sustainability, Public Administration, Architecture, Landscape Architecture, Civil Engineering, Transportation Planning, or a related field and two years of relevant professional experience; or a master's degree in a related field and one year of relevant professional experience. An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.

Municipal planning, sustainability, environmental planning, or project management experience is desirable. AICP, LEED, CEM, BEP, or related certification is desirable.

Valid Ohio driver's license required.

Required Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

Knowledge of urban and community planning; land use and zoning; development review; housing and transportation planning; sustainable development; environmental planning; climate action and resiliency; renewable energy and energy efficiency; community development; research and data analysis; and municipal government processes.

Ability to analyze planning and development issues; coordinate projects; interpret regulations and plans; prepare clear reports and presentations; communicate technical information to the public and elected and appointed officials; work effectively with diverse stakeholders; manage multiple priorities; exercise sound professional judgment; and work independently and collaboratively.

Knowledge of environmental sustainability principles and real-world application of these principles

Benefits

The City of Oberlin offers a comprehensive benefits package to employees.