Community​/Land Use Planner

Community / Land Use Planner

Location: Fairfield, ME, with frequent time spent out of office and work from home flexibility available.

Classification: Full time, permanent (dependent on future funding)

Kennebec Valley Council of Governments (KVCOG) is a community nonprofit organization that provides planning and economic development assistance to the towns in Kennebec, Somerset, and part of Waldo County. KVCOG is accepting applications for a Community/Land Use Planner to join our team. We will consider applications from all experience levels.

The Community/Land Use Planner works closely and collaboratively with KVCOG’s current planning staff. The position is responsible for providing technical and administrative support to municipal and regional entities on a broad array of topics relating to land use planning, community development, zoning administration, as well as environmental and infrastructure topics. This position works with the planning team on research, data analysis, public engagement, and preparation of planning documents.

The Community/Land Use Planner works independently and interacts regularly with the other planning staff, municipal boards and officials, the public, and partner entities. The Community/Land Use Planner will oversee and administer assigned projects and programs, including responsibilities related to contracts, budgeting, monitoring, review, and reporting, as directed by the Executive Director. GIS experience is desirable but not required. The position operates under the general supervision of the Senior Planner and Executive Director.

Work is evaluated through observation, regular staff discussions, review of reports, and assessment of outcomes.

• Provide technical community and land use planning assistance to municipal officials by phone, in writing, and in person.
• Draft and update comprehensive plan chapters, municipal ordinances, and related planning documents.
• Conduct research and analyze demographic, economic, environmental, and land use data.
• Prepare reports, presentations, and other materials using GIS and standard office software.
• Stay informed on new legislation and maintain up-to-date training relevant to planning and land use.

• Host and participate in public meetings, workshops, and community engagement activities, including evening meetings.
• Deliver education and training to local officials through workshops, direct assistance, and written materials.
• Communicate effectively with other KVCOG staff, municipal officials, the public, and stakeholder groups.

• Collaborate and coordinate with KVCOG staff, municipal officials, local boards and committees, regional partners, and state agencies.

• Perform related duties and additional tasks as assigned.

• A minimum of a four-year college degree is required, preferably in Planning, Geography, Environmental Studies, Public Policy, or a related field. Considerable experience in planning and development is desirable, but the right candidate can be trained.

• Strong oral and written communication skills, including the ability to clearly and effectively present technical information and planning concepts to diverse audiences.
• Strong presentation, public speaking, and facilitation skills, with the ability to lead group and committee discussions to achieve well-defined, productive outcomes.
• Skilled at establishing and maintaining productive professional relationships with officials and colleagues across public and private agencies.

• Working knowledge of research methods and strong analytical skills, including the ability to conduct projects involving demographic, economic, and other analyses using Census and related data sources.

• Strong organizational skills with the ability to prioritize and manage multiple projects efficiently under tight deadlines.
• Ability to coordinate multiple tasks and meet deadlines.

• Willingness…