Strategic Conservation & Land Use Planner

Maine Association of Planners; Newmarket (NH); On-site; USD 55,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Town of Newmarket in Newmarket, NH is seeking a Conservation Planner / Land Use Administrator to support the Conservation Commission and oversee land use planning, permits, and stewardship.

The role combines 60% conservation planning with 40% land use administration, including grants, GIS, and public engagement. Requires knowledge of environmental planning, zoning, and state statutes, with strong communication and organizational skills.

Qualifications

• Educational background, working knowledge or a combination thereof related to land stewardship, conservation management or environmental science and planning.
• Knowledge or the ability to develop a working knowledge of state land use statutes, including but not limited to building code, land use, zoning, and conservation.
• Knowledge of Zoning Board of Adjustment and Planning Board procedures.
• Knowledge of ESRI or other Geographic Information System mapping programs.
• Ability to maintain filing systems.
• Ability to utilize technology including computer and cloud-based applications.
• Ability to create and maintain spreadsheets for tracking permit applications and other land use data.
• Ability to create and deliver clear and concise written communications.

Responsibilities

• Provides staff support for the Conservation Commission by attending their meetings, taking meeting minutes, creating meeting agendas, and posting public notices as needed.
• Assists the Commission with review sign-off and comment for NH Department of Environmental Services wetland permits.
• Assists in review of site plan and subdivision applications as they relate to Conservation Commission, Special Permit and State Wetlands laws.
• Coordinates and conducts site visits and assessments associated with conservation related violations and assists with related site visits.
• Assists in implementing the goals and action items of Town’s Master Plan.
• Leads planning and facilitation of long-term conservation and land use goals.
• Leads and manages the conservation easement monitoring program.
• Writes and administers grants for land purchases, conservation management projects, and stewardship projects.
• Coordinates stewardship of Town conservation areas and updates stewardship plans.
• Researches and develops zoning and development standards relating to conservation.
• Promotes Commission activities through website, social media and community platforms.
• Responds to landowner and resident inquiries related to conservation issues.
• Manages records of the Commission and communications; manages GIS data and mapping.

Job description

Town of Newmarket in Newmarket, NH is seeking a Conservation Planner / Land Use Administrator to support the Conservation Commission and oversee land use planning, permits, and stewardship.

The role combines 60% conservation planning with 40% land use administration, including grants, GIS, and public engagement. Requires knowledge of environmental planning, zoning, and state statutes, with strong communication and organizational skills.