Zoning Coordinator/Planner

Town of Brookline; New York (NY); On-site; Full time

Job summary

The Town of Brookline seeks a detail-oriented Zoning Coordinator/Planner to manage zoning functions and support community development. This role demands strong organizational skills and knowledge of Massachusetts zoning laws, offering a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits.

Benefits

Municipal pension

Health insurance

Generous paid time off

Professional development opportunities

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required, Master’s preferred.
• Two+ years in land use planning or zoning experience.
• Excellent communication and organizational skills.

Responsibilities

• Manage zoning functions and support Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA).
• Coordinate scheduling and staffing of ZBA meetings.
• Review zoning applications for completeness and compliance.

Skills

Organizational skills

Communication

Interpersonal skills

Knowledge of Massachusetts zoning laws

Education

Bachelor’s degree in urban planning

Master’s degree preferred

Tools

Microsoft Word

Microsoft Excel

Permitting software (Accela)

Job description

Career Opportunities with Town of Brookline

Location: 333 Washington Street
Brookline, MA, 02445

Support Smart Growth and Zoning Compliance in a Dynamic Community

The Town of Brookline is seeking a detail-oriented, organized, and collaborative Zoning Coordinator/Planner to support the Planning and Community Development and Building Departments. Reporting to the Regulatory Planning Director, this role is critical in managing zoning functions, supporting the Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA), and ensuring adherence to Massachusetts zoning laws and local regulations.

If you have a background in land use planning or zoning administration, enjoy coordinating complex regulatory processes, and want to contribute to thoughtful community development, this is an excellent opportunity to make a meaningful impact in a progressive municipality.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide professional and administrative support to the Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA), ensuring statutory timelines and requirements under MGL Chapters 40A and 40B are met
• Coordinate scheduling, noticing, and staffing of weekly evening ZBA meetings, including preparing agendas, meeting materials, minutes, and official decisions
• Review zoning applications for completeness, communicate with applicants to address deficiencies, and file final decisions with the Town Clerk
• Maintain and organize ZBA records, track conditions of approval, and coordinate follow-up with Town departments to ensure compliance
• Prepare reports and studies related to zoning, land use, and development proposals
• Conduct site visits as needed to understand project details and zoning impacts
• Advise applicants, residents, and staff on zoning requirements and processes
• Support other Planning Department initiatives and interdepartmental reviews as assigned

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in urban planning, public administration, or related field (Master’s preferred)
• Two or more years of professional experience in land use planning, zoning, or related regulatory work, or equivalent combination of education and experience
• Knowledge of Massachusetts zoning laws (Chapters 40A and 40B) strongly preferred
• Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel; experience or willingness to learn permitting software such as Accela
• Valid Massachusetts Class D driver’s license

Why Work for Brookline?
Brookline is a forward-thinking municipality committed to responsible land use, community engagement, and high-quality public service. Salary is $39.16 - $41.13 hourly. We offer a comprehensive benefits package including a municipal pension, health insurance, generous paid time off, and professional development opportunities.

How to Apply
Help shape Brookline’s future through smart zoning and land use planning. Submit your letter of interest and resume to be considered for this key Planning Department role. This position is open until filled and applications received by July 8, 2025 will be prioritized for consideration.

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