Associate Planner

Southeast Alabama Regional Planning and Development Commission

Planner – Dothan, AL

Under direction, works with the Economic Development Director on providing technical assistance to local governments with issues related to land use and transportation planning assistance, grant development and implementation, geospatial/GIS solutions, hazard mitigation programs, and other duties as assigned.

Essential Job Functions

• Prepares comprehensive planning documents for communities throughout the region.
• Assists communities in updating or developing zoning ordinances, land use maps, and subdivision regulations.
• Assists in writing and administering grants to appropriate agencies.
• Attends city council, county commission, and other public meetings to gather information or present data.
• Plans, compiles, and drafts base maps, land use maps, graphs, charts, plot plans, and other illustrations.
• Confers with Economic Development Director to determine which project(s) to undertake and to plan focus for research.
• Conducts personal interviews with area residents and organizational leaders regarding such planning issues as land use, zoning, utilities, transportation, recreational facilities, and community services.
• Consults with engineers, system operators, and other experts regarding possible systems upgrades.
• Provides communities with a broad picture of their facilities/systems—strengths, weaknesses, and areas which may need attention.
• Attends professional meetings, workshops, or classes in area of specialty.
• Performs other duties related to project or as requested by Economic Development Director.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities. Knowledge of the operations of local, state, and federal governments. Knowledge of cartographic skills. Capabilities in computer usage to include ArcGIS software. Writing skills to develop planning documents, project proposals, and related documents. Verbal communication skills to deliver presentations, issue instructions, answer questions, and respond to a variety of people. Comprehension skills to understand and respond to present and emerging policy issues. Analysis and planning skills to develop proposals, budgets, strategies, and various types of plans. Ability to communicate with co-workers and support staff. Ability to relate productively to external groups including business/community groups, state and local officials, and the public in general.

Credentials and Experience. Bachelor's degree in planning, geography, public administration, or closely related area. Master’s degree preferred or at least 2-3 years’ experience in planning related work OR appropriate combination of education and experience.

Special Requirements. Possess valid driver's license and be willing to drive to on-site locations and community meetings. Be willing to travel to professional meetings/workshops. Be willing to work irregular hours as duties demand.

Who we Are

The Southeast Alabama Regional Planning and Development Commission (SEARP&DC) was created in 1969 under legislation passed by the Alabama State Legislature. The Commission is administered and governed by a group of 35 individuals from the seven member counties. These individuals act as liaisons for the citizens in their counties. The needs of the citizens are given to SEARP&DC and goals are established. The staff of SEARP&DC are constantly striving to make Southeast Alabama a better place to live.

Our Mission

To Improve the Quality of Life for the Citizens of Barbour, Coffee, Covington, Dale, Geneva, Henry and Houston Counties. The Southeast Alabama Regional Planning and Development Commission was formed to assist communities with a number of services. A number of departments fall under the umbrella of SEARP&DC. These include Community and Economic Development, Head Start, Senior Aides, and Wiregrass Transit.

Benefits you will receive:

Share in our Organization's success - Competitive base salary, eligibility for annual pay increases

Find your work/life balance with our generous paid leave program to include annual and sick leave, twelve (12) paid Holidays off, Weekday work schedules with no nights or weekends, flexible work schedules, health insurance with wellness plans, dental and vision insurance options.

Plan for your future with Alabama State Retirement, Optional 401K plan, Employer paid life insurance, short-term disability insurance and optional LTD insurance.

Further your career with our tuition assistance program, education development assistance, and numerous training opportunities.

TO APPLY: Please visit the employment page at www.searpdc.org for REQUIRED application or call 334-794-4093 ext. 1415 for more information.

EOE/E-verify

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From $22.31 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• AD&D insurance
• Dental insurance
• Flexible schedule
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Loan forgiveness
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance
• Work from home

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Day shift
• Monday to Friday

Work Location: In person

Salary : $22