The Metropolitan Area Planning Council seeks candidates for the position of Regional Land Use Planner who will serve the Land Use Department. This individual will work on a variety of projects, including, but not limited to, undertaking local visioning and land use planning, assisting in housing and economic development planning, open space planning and/or writing bylaws or ordinances. The primary goal of this work will be to encourage sustainable patterns of development and preservation consistent with MetroFuture, most frequently by working with municipalities to modernize land use
regulations and policies.
The Metropolitan Area Planning Council is a regional planning agency serving the people who live and work in Metropolitan Boston. Our mission is to promote smart growth and regional collaboration, which includes protecting the environment, encouraging sustainable land use, improving mobility, advancing public health and safety, advancing equity and opportunity among people of all backgrounds, and fostering collaboration among municipalities.
Our work is guided by our regional vision, “MetroFuture: Making a Greater Boston Region.”(See www.MetroFuture.com.) Our Council members and staff work to advance this plan through technical assistance to cities and towns, data analysis and mapping, research, collective purchasing, public engagement, and advocacy for public policies that advance our mission. We welcome to our staff team intelligent, thoughtful and entrepreneurial professionals who are committed to improving the quality of life in Metro Boston.
Examples of Duties:
The responsibilities of the Planner will include activities such as: assisting municipalities to develop and implement plans and strategies; researching and preparing reports, studies, testimony, and presentations; advising various levels of government on policies and best practices; organizing workshops and educational events for the public; making public presentations and facilitating public discussions; remaining informed about current planning issues, resources, and programs; reviewing legislation and regulatory changes at the state and federal levels; drafting plans and policies, including zoning bylaws; advocating for public policies and actions; and interacting with environmental, economic development, transportation, housing and community development organizations, state agencies, and the public.
Typical Qualifications:
Candidate should have expertise in one or more of the following: federal, state and local land use policy issues, laws, and regulations; current best planning practices related to master planning; land use, economic development, open space and housing planning; and familiarity with state programs such as Expedited Permitting, Smart Growth Zoning, Compact Neighborhoods, etc.;experience in bylaw/ordinance preparation to promote smart growth, including land use, as well open space; experience in undertaking or preparing of master plans, housing/economic development analyses or land use plans at the local and regional level; and engineering and/or urban design skills are a plus;
In addition, the candidate should possess all of the following strong research, writing, and communication skills, including ability to utilize data and GIS effectively; strong organizational skills and ability to work effectively with community groups and government officials; and strong public process and facilitation skills, flexibility, and
collaboration skills.
Supplemental Information:
Successful candidate will possess either a Bachelor’s Degree in urban/regional planning, public policy/management, urban design/architecture or closely related field and at least four years relevant job experience, or a Masters’ Degree in a relevant field with at least two years relevant professional experience. Masters Degree, AICP Certification and additional job experience preferred. Responsibilities will include meetings with elected officials and boards, often requiring local travel and occurring in the evening; a valid Massachusetts driver’s license is required and/or the ability to arrange transportation to different parts of the region. Legal authorization (citizenship or visa) to work in the USA is also required. Excellent state employee benefits package. Salary dependent upon qualifications (anticipated starting salary range $55,000 – $65,000 per year). Position open until filled. Review of applications to begin immediately. MAPC is an EOE/ AA employer. We are committed to creating a diverse workforce and encourage applications from minority group members, women, persons with disabilities, veterans, and others who may contribute to the agency’s diversity. This position is exempt from the provisions of the federal Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA).
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