What are the responsibilities and job description for the Planner position at Maine Association of Planners?
North Country Council
Littleton, NH United States
Planner
About Us
The North Country Council is a dynamic, community-focused organization dedicated to improving the quality of life for Coös, Grafton, and Carroll Counties residents. As a Regional Planning Commission and Economic Development District, The Council works collaboratively with municipalities, businesses, and community stakeholders to drive sustainable growth, economic development, and rural planning across the North Country region. We are committed to addressing the region's challenges and leveraging opportunities to foster lasting, community-driven change.
Our forward-thinking team works across various sectors, delivering innovative solutions that promote sustainable growth, enhance community livability, and support economic vitality. By focusing on rural development, transportation, and regional planning, we aim to shape a prosperous future for the communities we serve. The North Country Council's dedicated professionals are passionate about positively impacting and creating a stronger, more vibrant region.
The Planner will be an integral part of our team, supporting local and regional planning efforts across key areas such as community development, economic development, environmental planning, and resource protection. This full-time role involves developing and implementing planning projects, conducting thorough research, engaging with the public, and assisting local officials. The Planner will play a crucial role in shaping the region’s growth and ensuring sustainable development by balancing community needs with effective planning strategies.
Role Overview
The Planner will be responsible for supporting local and regional planning efforts across various areas, including community development, economic development, environmental planning, and resource protection. This full-time role involves developing and implementing planning projects, conducting research, engaging with the public, and assisting local officials in understanding and using land use plans and regulations.
Key Responsibilities
- Perform a variety of professional planning tasks, including the development of local and regional planning projects.
- Prepare and implement planning studies, research, and reports, ensuring compliance with funding and contracting requirements.
- Conduct research, analysis, and writing tasks to support local, state, and federal-funded planning initiatives, including fieldwork as necessary.
- Identify and apply for funding opportunities to support planning projects.
- Coordinate and facilitate public meetings, hearings, and workshops, engaging community stakeholders.
- Assist local officials in understanding land use plans, zoning ordinances, subdivision regulations, and site plan review processes.
- Collect, analyze, and interpret data, summarizing findings with charts, graphs, and maps.
- Lead project teams when assigned and ensure the successful completion of planning initiatives.
- Perform related work as assigned by the supervisor.
Key Skills & Experience
- Knowledge of municipal planning practices, land use, community development, and affordable housing.
- Experience facilitating public meetings, open forums, and group discussions.
- Proficiency in data collection, research methods, and data visualization techniques.
- Grant writing and administration skills, with the ability to assist in securing funding for planning projects.
- Strong organizational skills, with the ability to juggle multiple tasks and deadlines.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and the Microsoft 365 environment.
- Effective communication skills to engage with diverse stakeholders, including community groups, developers, and government officials.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Land Use Planning, Landscape Architecture, Geography, Public Administration, or a related field.
- Two to four years of experience in municipal planning, community development, or related areas.
- Experience with project management, including planning, budgeting, and working within established timelines.
- Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation for regional travel.
- A willingness to learn and a passion for community-focused planning.
Why Join Us?
At the North Country Council, you’ll be part of a passionate and close-knit team that values creativity, collaboration, and community engagement. Your work will have a lasting impact on the North Country region, as you’ll help shape the planning and development processes that affect real communities.
We offer a dynamic and varied work environment with opportunities for professional development, as well as a chance to contribute to the sustainability and long-term growth of one of New Hampshire's most beautiful and vibrant regions.
In addition to working on exciting planning projects, we offer a competitive salary range of $55,000 to $72,000 depending on experience and a comprehensive benefits package that includes:
- Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance—with generous employer contributions.
- Life Insurance and Short-Term/Long-Term Disability Insurance at no cost to you.
- Paid Time Off, including holidays, sick days, and vacation time that increases with tenure.
- Opportunities for professional development and continuing education.
Location and Travel:
The role is based in Littleton, NH, with travel required throughout the three counties (Coös, Grafton, and Carroll) and occasional trips further south. You must be flexible; some evening and weekend work will be required to attend meetings or facilitate events. Working remotely is an option, with some days being in office days.
How to Apply:
If you are excited about the opportunity to make a tangible impact on the future of the North Country region, we would love to hear from you.
To apply, please send your resume and a cover letter detailing your qualifications and interest in the position to Michelle Moren-Grey, Executive Director, at mmoren@nccouncil.org. Please use the subject line “Planner”.
This position is open until filled, and we encourage you to apply as soon as possible. The North Country Council is an equal-opportunity employer, and we welcome applications from all qualified candidates.
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Salary : $55,000 - $72,000