Community Planner II

County of Chester; West Goshen (Chester County); Hybrid; USD 45,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Community Planner to enhance innovative planning efforts throughout the region. This entry-level position offers the opportunity to engage in writing comprehensive plans, zoning ordinances, and special studies aimed at improving community quality of life. You will collaborate with municipal officials and stakeholders while monitoring grant programs and attending various meetings. This role operates in a hybrid environment, allowing for flexibility in work arrangements. If you are passionate about community planning and eager to make a difference, this is the perfect opportunity for you.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in planning or related field required.
• Strong research, analytical, and communication skills emphasized.

Responsibilities

• Assist in writing comprehensive plans and zoning ordinances.
• Conduct data collection and analysis for planning information.
• Collaborate with municipal officials and stakeholders.

Skills

Research Skills

Analytical Skills

Verbal Communication

Written Communication

Organizational Skills

Time Management

Problem-Solving Skills

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Planning or Related Field

Master's Degree in Planning or Related Field

Tools

Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)

GIS Software

ArcView Software

Job description

The Chester County Planning Commission seeks a Community Planner to assist in advancing sound and innovative planning efforts throughout Chester County. Responsibilities of this entry level position include assisting with writing comprehensive plans, zoning ordinances, subdivision and land development ordinances, and special planning studies for townships, boroughs, and other clients in an effort to improve quality-of-life and implement the county’s long-range plan, Landscapes3. The position also provides support in the monitoring grant programs, attends evening meetings, and collaborates with municipal officials, community stakeholders, local planning partners, and internal project teams.

The Chester County Planning Commission is committed to engaging with communities and our planning partners as we continue to balance preservation and growth in the county. The Planning Commission operates in a hybrid work environment.

Core Duties

1. Undertake data collection, analysis and report preparation on planning and demographic information.
2. Research planning topics, prepare technical reports, and review and analyze data.
3. Attend municipal and planning partner meetings.
4. Provide technical assistance to municipalities.
5. Address questions from the general public.
6. Work on special projects as needed.
7. Attend professional conferences and seminars and review professional literature to remain up-to-date on current planning issues.
8. Attend evening meetings, as required.
9. Assist in preparing or presenting materials to municipalities or planning seminars.
10. Coordinate with regional organizations on issues of interest to Chester County.

Community Planner

1. Assist with research and writing of municipal comprehensive plans, zoning ordinances, subdivision and land development ordinances, and special planning studies.
2. Monitor Vision Partnership Program contracts to ensure municipalities are meeting grant program requirements and are consistent with the County’s policies.
3. Attend municipal public meetings and hearings as needed.

Qualifications / Requirements:

1. Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in planning or a related field.
2. A minimum of one year of job-related experience.
3. Strong research and analytical skills.
4. Strong verbal and written communication skills.
5. Ability to accurately carry out verbal and written instructions.
6. Strong organizational and time management skills.
7. Ability to establish priorities and carry tasks to completion.
8. Ability to perform accurate and detail oriented work.
9. Ability to work independently and as a team member.
10. Experience collaborating with planning partners.
11. Computer skills as described below.
12. A valid driver’s license is required.

Preferred Skills, Knowledge & Experience:

1. Master’s degree from an accredited college or university in planning or a related field.
2. Two to three years of job-related experience.
3. Understanding of the Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning Code (Act 247) and local government structure in Pennsylvania.
4. Strong public speaking skills.
5. Strong consensus-building skills.
6. Project management skills and experience.
7. Self-initiative in undertaking projects and research.
8. Flexibility in handling changing demands and priorities.
9. Ability to handle and resolve problems.
10. General understanding of state and federal programs, regulations, review processes, and funding sources related to the specific planning position.
11. Accreditation or affiliation with applicable professional associations (e.g., AICP, APA, ITE) is a plus.

Relevant background checks, clearances, physicals, drug tests, and any other assessments or evaluations will be conducted after an offer of employment is given per County policy.

Computer Skills:

To perform this job successfully, an individual should have:

1. Intermediate Microsoft Office skills, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
2. Basic to Intermediate Outlook skills (Email and Calendar)
3. Intermediate Internet research skills.
4. Working knowledge to intermediate skill level in the use of GIS and ArcView software (Intermediate required for GIS planner).