Regional Planner: Community Development

The Roanoke Valley-Alleghany Regional Commission (RVARC) is a regional planning agency dedicated to fostering collaboration and strategic solutions to enhance economic growth, quality of life, and sustainability in the region. Serving the communities of Alleghany, Botetourt, Craig, Franklin, and Roanoke Counties, as well as the cities of Covington, Roanoke, and Salem, RVARC addresses regional challenges through partnerships and innovative initiatives. Established in 1969, the Commission focuses on areas such as transportation, economic development, and legislative advocacy.

By offering expertise in planning, grants, and project implementation, RVARC supports its members in driving meaningful, positive change across municipal boundaries. Learn more rc.org.

Performs responsible professional work in the area of community development, with specific focus on rural planning and housing in both the Commission’s urban and rural areas. Planning activities can include technical work in mapping and data analysis, stakeholder engagement, presentations to boards and committees, project management, development of studies and plans, and administrative support for relevant subcommittees of the Regional Commission.

A particular emphasis is placed on experience with rural local government.

The salary range for this position is $51,000 to $61,000 based on education and experience.

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• Flexible schedule, including up to two designated telework days a week, and flexible telework options to meet day-to-day family, professional development, and other All employees telework every Friday.
• Professional development and certification 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.
• As a public agency, employment at the Regional Commission may qualify you for student loan forgiveness through the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program.
• For active transportation aficionados, as a Bicycle Friendly Business, the Regional Commission provides on-site indoor bicycle parking and an e-bike is available for all
• Competitive health insurance through Anthem Blue Cross Blue
• Matching contributions to a 459 plan that increases with your time at the

• Conducts studies, relating to a broad range of community development planning projects;
• Assists localities and development agencies in determining and activating projects and programs, securing funding and continuing operation and monitoring of programs;
• Provides 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;
• Researches topics related to special planning areas and prepares reports as required;
• Reviews and analyzes program proposals and may oversee the administration of grant programs, including grant preparation;
• Prepares program proposals, grant applications and contractual reports;
• Serves as a liaison with state and local offices, providing information and sharing related technical reports and presentations;
• Represents the Roanoke Valley-Alleghany Regional Commission at various meetings in a professional manner in presentations, meetings, and interactions with the public and elected and appointed officials;
• Works with the Community Development team to identify synergies in programs across planning areas, including environmental and hazard mitigation planning;
• Works with the Director of Community Development to identify opportunities…