Economic Development Planner - GCI University of Illinois at Chicago - Chicago, IL

The Great Cities Institute of College of Urban Planning and Public Affairs at the University of Illinois at Chicago is seeking a full-time (100% time) Economic Development Planner for its research activities and programs. This position performs urban planning and research activities as well as technical studies to provide the necessary information for the formulation of community and economic development strategies, programs and services and for investment decisions. Provides assistance in the development of short and long term economic and community development plans, as well as the gathering of information and preparation of studies, reports, and recommendations to achieve such goals. Contributes to the educational objectives of the College by developing and delivering public and classroom presentations, supervising student projects and internships and preparing and presenting specialized reports. Great Cities Institute produces research on topics such as urban fiscal policies, economic development, infrastructure and capital financing, and other urban planning and policies issues.

Duties:
1. Identify, develop and implement urban planning research designs and technical studies including the preparation of market, labor or housing studies, development of policy analysis and strategic planning for economic and community development.

2. Lead public and institutional planning meetings, studies, charettes, presentations, dissemination activities and related efforts in community and economic development, such as local employment opportunities, housing, capacity-building, business expansion and technology transfer.

3. Provide educational and technical assistance to community organizations and institutions on community development matters by using spatial, statistical and financial analysis, GIS and visualization techniques, communication strategies, strategic and general planning, dispute resolution and other tools available to professional planners.

4. Identify stakeholders and collaborate with UIC faculty and public, non-profit and private sector planning and implementation agencies to build working relationships and to share information and ideas on matters concerning community, economic, housing and workforce development among public and private entities, in order to fully utilize talent and resources in pursuit of UIC CUPPA’s mission and commitment to engaged research and public service.

5. Identify potential funding and research projects. Develop and submit proposals.

6. Develop and deliver lectures, presentations, project and internship supervision and technical advice for UIC students.

7. Plan, assign and review work of staff to ensure that group objectives are met. Hire, train, develop and manage staff to ensure that a qualified staff exists to meet group objectives.

8. Perform other related duties and participate in special projects as assigned.

Qualifications:
Master’s Degree in Planning, Economics, Business or related field. Working knowledge of research and investigative techniques. Experience in low-income community preferred. Experience in community development, economic development, and/or community planning. Professional certification in planning preferred.

Applicants must apply online at (Link) and should submit CV, resume and three references no later than July 7, 2014.

UIC is an Equal Opportunity, Affirmative Action employer. Minorities, women, veterans and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply.