Economic Development & Long-Term Planner

brooklinema; Brookline (MA); Hybrid; USD 80,000 - 84,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Four weeks vacation

Pension

Health insurance

Hybrid work schedule

Job summary

The Town of Brookline is seeking an entrepreneurial and collaborative Planner to join the Economic Development & Long-Term Planning Division. The role manages a diverse portfolio of complex work advancing Brookline’s economic vitality and long-term sustainability.

Starting salary ranges from $79,894 to $84,236 with excellent benefits, and eligibility for a hybrid work schedule. A Master’s degree is desirable and three years’ experience in economic development or planning are preferred.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in urban planning or related field; a master’s degree is desirable.
• Three years’ experience in economic development or long-term planning, community engagement, real estate development, business advisory services; or equivalent.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to attend evening meetings.
• Read and interpret site plans; proficiency in MS Office and ArcMap.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement programs to support local businesses and enhance district vibrancy.
• Assist owners, developers, property owners, and groups navigating licensing and permitting.
• Collaborate with residents, business groups, and Town departments on planning goals.
• Conduct research, prepare reports, analyses, and planning documents.
• Support advisory boards with professional and administrative tasks, meeting prep.
• Manage communications and outreach, including website content and updates.
• Lead district planning projects and long-term planning initiatives.

Skills

Communication

Editing

Collaboration

Problem-solving

Public engagement

Education

Bachelor's degree in urban planning or related field

Master's degree desirable

Tools

MS Office

ArcMap

Job description

Economic Development & Long-Term Planner
Dept. of Planning and Community Development
Starting Salary Range: $79,894 – $84,236 plus excellent benefits

The Town of Brookline seeks an entrepreneurial and collaborative Planner to join the Economic Development & Long-Term Planning Division. This position manages a diverse portfolio of complex planning and program management work that advances Brookline’s economic vitality and long-term sustainability.

Key Responsibilities:

• Developing and implementing programs to support local businesses, enhance commercial area vibrancy, and encourage commercial real estate investment.
• Assisting business owners, developers, property owners, and community organizations in navigating Town licensing and permitting processes.
• Collaborating with residents, business groups, and Town departments to strengthen Brookline’s commercial districts and advance long-term planning goals.
• Conducting research and preparing reports, data analyses, and written materials related to economic development and planning initiatives.
• Supporting advisory boards and committees through professional and administrative support, meeting preparation, and follow-up.
• Managing communications and outreach related to Division projects, including website content, email updates, and public engagement materials.
• Leading district planning projects and long-term planning initiatives in support of Town-wide goals and objectives.

Qualifications:

Bachelor’s Degree in urban planning or a related field; a master’s degree is desirable; three years’ experience in economic development or long-term planning, community engagement, real estate development, business advisory services; or an equivalent combination of education and experience. A valid driver’s license and evening meeting attendance required.

Must have technical skills in real estate development, business assistance, long-term planning, and/or urban planning; ability to read and interpret site plans; MS Office skills, plus Arc Map products.

The ideal candidate is a dynamic problem-solver who thrives in collaborative environments, demonstrates strong communication and editing skills, and brings creativity to complex planning challenges. Experience working with diverse community and business partners is essential. Chinese or Spanish language skills are desirable.

Why Join Us

Brookline’s Planning & Community Development Department supports a vibrant, inclusive community and a diverse local economy. The Economic Development & Long-Term Planning Division plays a key role in shaping the Town’s commercial areas and advancing its planning priorities through collaboration, creativity, and data-driven decision-making. The role also offers a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package, including four weeks’ vacation, pension, and excellent health insurance coverage. Eligible for hybrid work schedule.

The Town of Brookline is an equal opportunity employer and dedicated to maintaining a diverse workforce.