Regional Planner: Community Development

Planner II - Senior Planner The Regional Commission is seeking a journey-level or advanced planner with experience in 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. Salary Range The salary range for this position is $51,000 to $61,000 based on education and experience. Benefits Flexible schedule, including up to two designated telework days a week, and flexible telework options Professional development and certification support – the Commission covers the cost of achieving and maintaining appropriate certifications such as AICP and GISP; attendance at one major industry conference a year is encouraged, and regular web-based or in-person training and skills-building opportunities are available Potential qualification for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program as a public agency employee On-site indoor bicycle parking and an e-bike available for all active transportation enthusiasts Competitive health insurance through Anthem Blue Cross Blue Matching contributions to a 459 plan that increases with time at the agency Typical Work Tasks Conduct studies related to a broad range of community development planning projects Assist localities and development agencies in determining and activating projects and programs, securing funding and continuing operation and monitoring of programs Provide 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 Research topics related to special planning areas and prepare reports as required Review and analyze program proposals and oversee the administration of grant programs, including grant preparation Prepare program proposals, grant applications and contractual reports Serve as a liaison with state and local offices, providing information and sharing related technical reports and presentations Represent the Regional Commission at various meetings in a professional manner in presentations, meetings, and interactions with the public and elected and appointed officials Work with the Community Development team to identify synergies in programs across planning areas, including environmental and hazard mitigation planning Work with the Director of Community Development to identify opportunities for collaboration with other stakeholders and departments, such as transportation planning Provide technical and management assistance to other agencies involved with planning activities Perform other duties as assigned Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Knowledge of the theories, principals, practices and techniques of planning related to community development and housing Ability to analyze and accurately compile statistical and technical information in a systematic manner 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 Ideal Candidate Will Also Have Knowledge of 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 Preferred Education and Experience Graduation from an accredited college or university with a master’s degree in planning, geography, public administration or a closely related field and a minimum of one to three years of planning experience; or Graduation from an accredited college or university with a bachelor’s degree in any of the aforementioned fields with a minimum of four years of experience in planning; or A high school diploma or GED with a minimum of five years of related professional work experience Continuing Education This is a mid‑to‑high‑level position within the professional development track. Dedication and willingness to continue education through attendance of conferences, participation in professional associations, and/or completion of courses, certificates, seminars, or distance learning modules is encouraged for advancement to subsequent positions of technical expertise and/or responsibility. Physical Demands Physical exertion requirements are classified as light work. Lifting or carrying tasks are not more than 25 pounds. Walking, standing, and field work involving navigating both paved and natural surface trails is common. The job requires normal visual acuity, depth perception and field of vision. Individuals must be able to speak clearly in person and over the phone. Equal Opportunity Employer RVARC is proud to be an equal employment opportunity employer and to provide a work environment that is free of discrimination and harassment. Employment decisions at RVARC are based on agency needs, job requirements, and individual qualifications, without regard to any status protected by law. RVARC may consider an equivalent combination of knowledge, skills, education, and experience to meet minimum qualifications. #J-18808-Ljbffr