Planning and Sustainability Initiatives Coordinator

Oberlin, City of (OH); Oberlin (OH); On-site; USD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Oberlin City of is seeking a professional planner to guide land use, zoning, and housing strategies in alignment with the Comprehensive Plan and Climate Action Plan. The role collaborates with City departments, Oberlin College, and community partners to advance sustainable development and equitable access to housing and amenities.

The position requires a degree in urban planning (or related field) with related experience; certifications such as AICP/LEED are desirable.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in an urban planning related field and two years of experience; or a master's degree with one year of experience.
• Desirable certifications: AICP, LEED, CEM, BEP or related.
• Knowledge of plans, zoning, housing, sustainability and municipal processes.

Responsibilities

• Perform professional planning work related to land use, zoning, housing, transportation, and environmental protection.
• Coordinate planning initiatives with the city plans and climate action programs.
• Review proposals and provide analyses and recommendations.
• Support sustainability programs including energy efficiency and resilience.
• Assist with community engagement, public meetings and grants research.
• Provide staff support to Planning Commission and City Council.

Skills

Urban planning

Community planning

Land use

Zoning

Development review

Housing planning

Transportation planning

Sustainable development

Environmental planning

Climate resiliency

Renewable energy

Energy efficiency

Community development

Data analysis

Municipal government processes

Education

Bachelor's degree in Urban Planning

Master's degree in related field

AICP

LEED

CEM

BEP

Job description

Performs professional planning work with an emphasis on sustainable development, land use, zoning, environmental planning, climate resiliency, housing, and community development. Coordinates planning activities to ensure that development and City initiatives are consistent with and advance the City’s Comprehensive Plan, Social Equity Plan, and Climate Action Plan. The position works collaboratively with City departments, residents, businesses, developers, Oberlin College, community organizations, consultants, and regional partners. The position exercises professional judgment and works with a high degree of independence.

• Performs professional planning work related to land use, zoning, development, redevelopment, housing, transportation, infrastructure, open space, and environmental protection.
• Coordinates implementation of planning initiatives identified in the City’s Comprehensive Plan, Social Equity Plan, and Climate Action Plan, helping ensure that planning, development, and infrastructure decisions reflect the goals of all three plans.
• Reviews development proposals, site plans, subdivisions, zoning applications, and other planning matters and prepares professional analysis and recommendations.
• Supports land-use strategies that encourage compact growth, protect natural resources, reduce sprawl, and promote sustainable development.
• Supports planning initiatives that expand housing opportunities, improve neighborhood conditions, and promote equitable access to housing, transportation, parks, and other community amenities.
• Develops and implements sustainability and climate initiatives, including energy efficiency, renewable energy, greenhouse gas reduction, resource conservation, waste reduction, water conservation, and climate resiliency.
• Coordinates assigned sustainability and planning projects involving multiple City departments, consultants, and community partners.
• Conducts research and analyzes demographic, housing, economic, land‑use, environmental, energy, transportation, and infrastructure data.
• Provides technical and staff support to the Planning Commission, Board of Zoning Appeals, City Council, and other boards and commissions as assigned.
• Prepares staff reports, presentations, maps, studies, grant applications, correspondence, and other planning materials.
• Assists with community engagement, public meetings, educational programs, and stakeholder outreach related to planning and sustainability.
• Research and assists with grants and other funding opportunities supporting planning, housing, sustainability, infrastructure, and community development.
• Responsible for the administration and implementation of assigned sustainability programs, including the Sustainable Reserve Fund.
• Coordinates with other City departments to identify opportunities to better integrate the City’s adopted plans into daily operations and project decisions.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Bachelor’s degree in Urban Planning, City or Regional Planning, Geography, Environmental Studies, Sustainability, Public Administration, Architecture, Landscape Architecture, Civil Engineering, Transportation Planning, or a related field and two years of relevant professional experience; or a master's degree in a related field and one year of relevant professional experience. An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.

Municipal planning, sustainability, environmental planning, or project management experience is desirable. AICP, LEED, CEM, BEP, or related certification is desirable.

Valid Ohio driver's license required.

Knowledge of urban and community planning; land use and zoning; development review; housing and transportation planning; sustainable development; environmental planning; climate action and resiliency; renewable energy and energy efficiency; community development; research and data analysis; and municipal government processes.

Ability to analyze planning and development issues; coordinate projects; interpret regulations and plans; prepare clear reports and presentations; communicate technical information to the public and elected and appointed officials; work effectively with diverse stakeholders; manage multiple priorities; exercise sound professional judgment; and work independently and collaboratively.

Knowledge of environmental sustainability principles and real‑world application of these principles