Director of Planning and Community Development

City of Presque Isle; Presque Isle (ME); On-site; USD 57,000 - 63,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive benefits package

Pension plan opportunities

Job summary

The City of Presque Isle is seeking a strategic and experienced professional to lead our Planning and Community Development Department. Reporting to the City Manager, this role is responsible for the leadership, management, and strategic direction of the municipality’s planning, land use, and development functions, playing an integral part in shaping the future growth of our vibrant community.

This role directs planning, land use, and development activities, emphasizing grants, budgeting, and

Qualifications

• Four-year college degree in urban planning or related field.
• Proven experience in municipal planning and land use administration.
• Strong knowledge of grant research, narrative writing, and funding guidelines.

Responsibilities

• Oversee Land Use & Permitting processes; review subdivision and shoreland zoning applications; advise Planning Board and City Council.
• Lead Grant Acquisition efforts; identify, pursue, and draft competitive grants for community and economic development.
• Manage Community & Business Relations; collaborate with regional/state partners and communicate with developers and residents.
• Support Boards & Committees; staff Planning Board, Zoning Board of Appeals, Downtown Revitalization Committee, and Industrial Council.
• Lead Policy & Budgeting; draft planning ordinances, long-range plans, and manage departmental budget.

Skills

Municipal planning experience

Grant writing / research

Community relations

Education

Urban planning degree

Job description

The City of Presque Isle is seeking a strategic and experienced professional to lead our Planning and Community Development Department. Reporting to the City Manager, this role is responsible for the leadership, management, and strategic direction of the municipality’s planning, land use, and development functions, playing an integral part in shaping the future growth of our vibrant community.

Key Responsibilities:

Land Use & Permitting: Reviews subdivision and shoreland zoning applications; collects land use data for the Comprehensive Plan; makes practical recommendations to the Planning Board, City Manager, and City Council.

Grant Acquisition: Identifies, pursues, and drafts competitive grants and alternative funding streams to support community, infrastructure, and economic development goals.

Community & Business Relations: Partners with local, regional, and state organizations; maintains strong communication and responsiveness with developers, businesses, and residents.

Board & Committee Support: Staffs and provides technical assistance to the Planning Board, Zoning Board of Appeals, Downtown Revitalization Committee, and Industrial Council.

Policy & Budgeting: Drafts planning ordinances, prepares long-range plans, and manages the departmental budget

.

Desired Qualifications:

Graduation from a four-year college or university with emphasis on urban planning, engineering, or a related field (advanced degree preferred). Proven experience in municipal planning and land use administration. Strong knowledge of grant research, narrative writing, and funding guidelines.

An equivalent combination of training and experience will be considered.

Compensation & Benefits:

Wage Range: $41.45 to $45.94 per hour, Comprehensive package including employee/family medical, vision, and dental. Choice of 401(a)/457(b) retirement plan or the Maine Public Employees Retirement System (MainePERS).

To Apply:

Submit a letter of interest, application, and resume to:
Human Resource Director4
12 Second Street, Presque Isle, ME 04769
Or email: [e-mail]

Deadline: Applications accepted until Friday, November 27, 2026.
An Equal Opportunity Employer