Project Planner

The Town of Kittery Department of Planning and Development is hiring a Project Planner to support Town staff and committees as assigned.  This is a part-time position that offers a varied and flexible schedule averaging 20 hours per week between Mondays and Thursdays, and pay rate of $30- $38 per hour depending on experience.
 
The ideal candidate is well organized, possesses strong communication skills, and has experience working in a municipal planning office, non-profit organization, or other role related to land use and planning.  A bachelor’s degree in a related field is desired. However, any person with a strong interest in land use planning and development, a combination of relevant work and education experience, an interest in public service, and a commitment to professional development is encouraged to apply.
 
The primary responsibilities for this position are to assist the Director and committees with updating and implementing the Town’s Comprehensive Plan and land use/ zoning ordinances.  Attendance at evening meetings is required.  Excellent writing skills and comfort with public speaking are essential. Proficiency with GIS software and ability to use standard office software to prepare visual aids including maps and graphics are desired.
 
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
The following duties are normal for this position.  These are not to be construed as exclusive or all-inclusive.  Other duties may be required and assigned.

• Assists with the update of the Comprehensive Plan including coordinating and attending committee and public meetings, recording and distributing meeting notes and information, developing and presenting policies and implementation strategies related to Kittery’s physical, social and economic development, and preparing documents and graphics for the Plan;
• Develops and evaluates ordinances or project proposals intended to achieve Town goals as expressed in the Comprehensive Plan, or by the Town Council, Town Manager, or Director;
• Coordinates with State, Federal, and regional government officials and local stakeholders to ensure consistency and validity of Town ordinances and land use projects;
• Provides technical assistance and information to citizens, landowners, developers, attorneys, engineers and other parties seeking Town planning and development information or advice;
• Provides staff support to various boards, committees, and commissions concerned with Town growth and development issues. 

• Manages and maintains GIS data, prepares various maps and images such as the official zoning map and supplemental visual aids;
• Manages and maintains the department’s website to provide the public and applicants with updated information related to Department business and public events;
• Collects a variety of statistical data and prepares reports and maps on topics such as census information, land use and occupancy rates, and presents findings as needed;
• Reviews development plans for consistency with the Comprehensive Plan and compliance with land-use ordinances, and prepares staff reports in support of the Planning Board. 

• Bachelor’s degree in urban planning, regional planning, public administration, or related field desired, with a minimum of two years’ experience in municipal planning, professional planning, or related industry; or any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience which provides the requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities for this position;
• Ability to understand, interpret, and apply complex land use laws and regulations;
• Excellent verbal and writing skills, ability to communicate effectively and in an appropriate professional manner, and to convey or exchange professional information;
• Ability to develop and maintain positive relationships with employees, vendors, and departments;
• Ability to exercise initiative and good judgement, to set priorities and complete efforts independently and as a member of a team;
• Ability to utilize mathematical formulas, and to understand a variety of professional, technical and administrative documentation, directions, regulations, instructions, methods and procedures;
• Ability to produce reports that are accurate and complete;
• Must possess a valid driver’s license;
• Proficiency with ESRI ArcGIS software (manage geodatabases, draw and edit shapefiles, utilize geoprocessing tools, prepare map graphics) desired but not essential. 

• Must be able to operate a computer, keyboard, printer, telephone, and other equipment necessary to perform the duties of this position;
• Must be able to move or carry job-related objects or materials up to 20 pounds;
• Must be able to sit and stand for long periods;
• Must be able to communicate through speech and in writing;
• Work is normally performed in an office environment.  Headaches, eye strain, carpal tunnel syndrome, and related occupational hazards associated with computer work reflect most common potential for injury.