Land Use Planner II – Growth, Zoning & Environment

PLANNER I STARTING SALARY: $74,350 /annum

PLANNER I SALARY RANGE: $74,350 - $85,405 (contract currently in negotiation)

PLANNER II STARTING SALARY: $80,480 / annum

PLANNER II SALARY RANGE: $80,480 - $92,445 (contract currently in negotiation)

* The Town is seeking candidates at the Planner II experience and credentialed level, but reserves the right to fill the position at the Planner I level where appropriate.*

Planner I – Land Use performs professional planning work in land use, housing, transportation, zoning, and environmental management. Working under standard departmental procedures, this role analyzes economic and physical data, reviews residential and commercial development applications, and helps update the Town Plan of Conservation and Development. Key duties include administering land use regulations, preparing complex statistical reports, and providing technical support to Town Boards and Commissions.

The Planner I collaborates with public officials, developers, attorneys, and inter-governmental agencies, and is responsible for grant administration, public presentations, and attending required evening meetings.

Planner II – Land Use performs professional planning services focused in the functional areas of land use, zoning, conservation, environment, housing, transportation, and related planning areas. Working under standard departmental procedures, this role organizes priorities, manages assigned projects, and compiles economic, social, and spatial data affecting land use and growth. Key responsibilities include coordinating with regional, state, and federal agencies; conferring with developers, attorneys, and the public;

and reviewing site plans, subdivisions, and development proposals. The position provides technical support to Town Boards and Commissions, prepares reports and policy recommendations, administers zoning codes, and contributes to updates of the Town’s Plan of Conservation and Development. The Planner II collaborates with public officials, developers, attorneys, and inter-governmental agencies and is responsible for grant administration, public presentation, and attending required evening meetings.

The successful candidate brings deep expertise in environmental and land use planning, with a strong background in permit application review and site inspections. Essential qualifications include clear written and verbal communication skills for delivering board presentations and technical reports. The candidate must demonstrate firm, tactful, and impartial regulatory enforcement, alongside a proven ability to build collaborative relationships with developers, attorneys, town officials, and the public.

This role also requires leading community outreach, drafting and administering intergovernmental grants, and attending required evening meetings.

• Planner I - The skills and knowledge required would usually be acquired with a Bachelor’s Degree in Planning, Public Administration, or a closely related field; and two years’ experience in municipal planning.
• Planner II - The skills and knowledge required would usually be acquired with a Master’s Degree in Planning or a closely related field; with a minimum of four years’ experience in planning dealing with land use and zoning issues.

Planner I & II are required to possess and maintain a valid Motor Vehicle Operator's License. Certification as a Planner by the American Institute of Certified Planners desirable.

Individuals with disabilities who will need reasonable accommodation to complete the selection process should inform the Human Resources Department on or before the Final date to receive applications. Documentation supporting the need for this accommodation may be required. Criminal background, drug testing, and driving record checks required prior to employment.

Review of applications/resumes with best qualified candidates eligible for oral board interview(s).

The Town of Groton is an Equal Opportunity Employer and values diversity at all levels; it is committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees, and encourages all individuals to apply.