Polikoff-Gautreaux Fellowship, Business and Professional People for the Public Interest

Business and Professional People for the Public Interest (BPI) offers the Polikoff-Gautreaux Fellowship, an exceptional fellowship opportunity in Chicago for a recent law or public policy graduate.  One of the country’s foremost public interest law and policy centers, BPI seeks out and addresses compelling issues of social justice and quality of life in the Chicago region.  Currently, BPI works to preserve and increase affordable housing, transform public housing, improve Chicago’s public schools, and promote open and honest government in Illinois.

Fellows receive an attractive salary and benefits (including school loan repayment assistance, based on need).

Applications for the 2015 Fellowship are due Friday, October 17, 2014.*  Interested applicants may also consult our website, www.bpichicago.org, for more information on BPI’s programs and the Fellowship.

*Please note that we are especially encouraging persons of color to apply for this fellowship.  *Please feel free to contact Justin Tresnowski at (312) 641-5570 (ext. 256) or jtresnowski@bpichicago.org with any questions about the fellowship, BPI, or the application process.

Associate, SB Friedman Development Advisors - Chicago, IL

Associate

SB Friedman Development Advisors

August 15, 2014

Professional Area: 

Community Development and Redevelopment

Economic Planning and Development

Real Estate Development

Experience: 

3-5 years

Contact person: 

Geoffrey Dickinson, AICP

Phone: 

312-384-2404

Email: 

gdickinson@sbfriedman.com

Website: 

http://www.sbfriedman.com

Location: 

Chicago, IL

SB Friedman Development Advisors is a development consulting firm with a mission to guide and enable our clients to create high-quality places through the practice of real estate economics, development finance and urban planning. The firm assists in the planning and implementation of complex real estate development projects. We work closely with our clients to evaluate development potential and financial and business impacts; project market and financial feasibility; identify innovative public-private development solutions; and prepare implementable development strategies. Clients include the Cities of Chicago and Milwaukee, numerous suburbs and other public bodies, not-for-profit institutions, and private developers. 

Responsibilities Associates are responsible for research, quantitative and qualitative analysis, data synthesis, presentation of findings, technical writing (including memoranda and reports). As Associates are routinely assigned to multiple projects at any given time, candidates should have demonstrated ability to sift, organize, and synthesize various data in a timely manner and draw reasonable conclusions and/or recommendations from the data analysis. 

Requirements of Position Candidates must have a graduate degree in urban planning, business or real estate and demonstrate: 

• Exceptional quantitative analysis skills, particularly using Microsoft Excel 

• Strong writing ability 

• Strength in oral communication and interpersonal skills 

• Demonstrated ability to meet deadlines 

• Detail orientation and accuracy 

• Commitment to community revitalization, economic development, and sustainability 

In addition, candidates will have academic and professional experience in areas relevant to our practice, such as: 

• Demographic and economic analysis 

• Public finance and tax projections 

• Real estate market analysis 

• Real estate financial analysis/feasibility 

The following additional skills and experience are desirable for Associate candidates: 

• Strength in oral communication and presentations 

• Experience with GIS and ESRI Business Analyst 

• Experience with IMPLAN and/or similar tools 

Other Details The firm supports the professional growth of its staff and encourages all professionals to become active in professional and trade organizations. Salaries and benefits are competitive, based on experience, and are augmented by performance-based bonus compensation. All applicants will be afforded equal opportunity without discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, national origin or ancestry, citizenship status, age, physical or mental disability unrelated to ability, sexual orientation, military status or an unfavorable discharge from military service. 

Please respond by submitting by email a: • Cover letter • Resume • Written sample of your professional work. 

Writing samples should be primarily authored by the applicant; if a team project is submitted, clearly indicate the responsibilities and contributions of the applicant. Incomplete submittals or submittals in other formats may not be considered or reviewed.

Urban Design Planner, City of Auburn - Auburn, WA

Urban Design Planner

City of Auburn

August 14, 2014

Professional Area: 

Urban Design

Experience: 

3-5 years

Phone: 

253-931-3040

Email: 

humanresources@auburnwa.gov

Website: 

http://www.auburnwa.gov

Location: 

Auburn, WA

This is professional planning work in a municipal setting focusing on current and comprehensive (long-range) planning. Some positions within this classification may have an emphasis in urban design and development. Work includes, but is not limited to, undertaking SEPA and development reviews; processing zoning and subdivision applications and permits; developing land use plans, zoning regulations, and environmental regulations; researching and interpreting data; and preparing studies and reports. Work requires contact with members of other City departments, governmental agencies, land developers and their agents, the general public, nonprofit and quasigovernmental organizations, City Council, Planning Commission, and Hearing Examiner. This is distinguished from the Planner position by the level of responsibility and independence for work on major current and long-range projects and issues; and may require the ability to prepare conceptual urban designs in regards to the physical appearance of properties utilizing software, knowledge, and/or planning and architectural concepts.

*May serve as the Lead Planner for developing and implementing downtown and/or urban design projects and programs that emphasize architectural appropriateness and integration, pedestrian connections, urban gathering spaces, parking management in an urban setting, infrastructure supply and connectivity needed to support urban development, multimodal transportation connections and corridors, and urban redevelopment and revitalization. 

*Reviews and coordinates the review of a wide range of urban and planning development applications for conformance with City policies and land use regulations, including zoning and subdivision codes, critical area regulations, and related standards.

 

*Performs SEPA reviews, including maintaining knowledge of environmental laws (i.e. SEPA and NEPA) and reviewing/writing environmental impact statements.

 

*Performs a wide variety of comprehensive urban and planning activities; gathers and analyzes data, make recommendations, and prepares reports.

 

*Prepares ordinances and revisions to ordinances related to land use and development to implement the Comprehensive Plan.

For more information: Auburn Urban Design Planner

 

MINIMUM REQUIRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Four-year college degree in urban planning, or related field, plus four years of professional planning or planning related experience; OR Master's degree plus three years of professional planning or planning related experience. 

 

LICENSE REQUIRED

Possess and retain a valid Washington state driver's license without pending risk of loss at time of appointment.

 

AICP certification is highly desirable.

 

Position specifications may require an emphasis in urban design, architecture, or landscape architecture; knowledge of urban design principles; urban planning theory; and architectural concepts, techniques, and terms; and the ability to create and describe urban design and architectural concepts in a verbal, written, and graphical format.

Director of Real Estate Development, The Hazelwood Initiative - Hazelwood, PA

Director of Real Estate Development - The Hazelwood Initiative

Nonprofit Talent

August 17, 2014

Professional Area: 

Economic Planning and Development

Real Estate Development

Experience: 

5-7 years

Contact person: 

Todd Owens

Email: 

Todd@NonprofitTalent.com

Website: 

http://nonprofittalent.com

Location: 

Pittsburgh, PA

Application Materials Due By: 5 PM, Tuesday, September 2, 2014

The Hazelwood Initiative is a nonprofit community development corporation (CDC) operating in the Hazelwood and Glen Hazel neighborhoods. As a CDC, the mission of the Hazelwood Initiative is to be community driven, providing a shared stronger voice for greater Hazelwood by gathering community input to build a sense of hope, harmony, and promise as well as supporting human, spiritual and continuing community development. The Hazelwood Initiative is expanding in size, impact, and scale and has an immediate need for two key individuals to join the organization: one with expertise in residential and commercial real estate development and one in resident engagement and community organizing.

POSITION OVERVIEW

The Director of Real Estate Development (Director) is an essential member of The Hazelwood Initiative’s leadership team, and a key team member in the growth and development of the neighborhood. The Director manages and leads real estate (residential, commercial and other) and economic development activity for the organization, including business attraction, retention, expansion efforts, housing acquisition, redevelopment and construction initiatives, and implementation of the neighborhood housing strategy. This position will work to provide guidance to individuals and companies to establish, relocate, or expand their businesses within the community. The position will include assistance in the planning and coordination of community development projects, assist business and residential applicants with local and State permitting processes, and provide research for CDC sponsored projects.

The Director reports to the Executive Director and has no direct reports. However, this individual will work collaboratively with interns, consultants and others in the organization. More important however, is this individual’s ability to build on and further develop a strong foundation of planning, technical, strategic, and financial partners, as we well as existing business anchors, and unique strategic assets, to attract investments of scale and help improve and transform the residential and commercial fabric of the Hazelwood neighborhood.

The Director must be a flexible self-starter. S/he will make connections between residents to broaden and deepen the community network, support local advocacy, and develop an environment that supports neighborhood growth and improvement. This is an ideal position for someone who is passionate about neighborhood improvement, interested in the real estate development side of urban planning, and passionate about transforming communities!

This position is primarily responsible for the following:

• Maintaining a liaison with various local, State, and Federal agencies, coordinating projects with agencies as deemed necessary and appropriate (i.e. PHFA, URA, HUD, etc.).
• Performing a variety of administrative, technical, and professional work in preparation and implementation of economic and community development plans, programs, and services.
• Providing information and/or making presentations to supervisors, boards, commissions, civic groups, businesses, individuals, and the general public on economic development issues, programs, services, and plans.
• Maintaining familiarity with the existing inventory of available buildings and commercial and residential development sites within the community. This includes both public and private buildings and land areas. Preparing grant proposals and funding applications, contracts and other necessary documents as may be required for necessary community services.
• Providing assistance in the development of short and long term economic and community development plans, as well as in the gathering of information and preparation of studies, reports, and recommendations to achieve such goals. This will involve the preparation and maintenance of information on utilities, taxes, zoning, transportation, community services, financing tools, and incentives, in order to respond to requests for information for economic development purposes, and the coordination with other departments and agencies as needed.
• Serving as the primary point of contact for prospective businesses and providing assistance with site selection, permitting, and inspections. Serving as the CDC’s expert on residential and commercial development processes and protocols. Maintaining an understanding and ability to communicate the guidelines and restrictions of the zoning code and other municipal parameters.
• Understanding the City permitting and inspection processes and guiding new businesses through them, working through any roadblocks.
• Coordinating the utilization of existing programs such as rehabilitation programs, existing state and federal funding sources and grant opportunities, administration procedures, political mechanisms, legal tools, etc., as appropriate to promote economic development.
• Remaining current and informed of best practices in the field of neighborhood and commercial development and participating in workshops and training when required
• Representing The Hazelwood Initiative at local and citywide meetings and events.
• Managing project schedules and budgets to ensure that programs operate within established timelines and budgets, or proper authorization is secured for spending variances or delays.
• Working in conjunction with state/local representatives and agencies to identify new opportunities for financing projects.
• Analyzing economic studies, financial statements, marketing studies, plans, specs, and bid documents.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

Our ideal candidate has a demonstrated passion for residential and commercial development in a distressed community context. Additionally, they have a blend of the following:

• 5-7 years of experience, heavy in commercial/industrial real estate or brokerage; economic development; urban and regional planning; policy development, or related field (experience in private sector economic development is strongly desirable).
• A Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution in urban planning, business, or public administration, economics, or closely related field is required. An advanced degree is preferred. A real estate license is a plus.
• Demonstrated understanding of economic development and funding strategies, especially in the public sector; commercial and residential property development; and real estate and market analysis. Considerable knowledge of business development, community, and economic development. Working knowledge of municipal zoning and infrastructure, and planning programs and processes.
• Understanding of potential funding sources and tools such as New Markets, affordable housing, and Historic tax credits.
• Understanding of Main Street development methodologies and development in challenging environments.
• Ability to communicate and work effectively with a broad range of people and groups including individuals, engineers, architects, contractors, developers, businesses, supervisors, employees, independent retailers, corporate retail executives, real estate agents, landlords, and the general public.
• Ability to prepare and analyze reports and data, and have skill in the operation of necessary tools and equipment, i.e. computer, word processing, spreadsheet software, and general office equipment.
• Data-driven, with an ability to utilize internet research, GIS, PNCIS, real estate, market and other data to inform decision-making.
• Adept at project management, particularly when juggling multiple projects with divergent timelines, stakeholders and funding sources.
• Efficient self-starter with strong analytical, research, written, organizational, client service, and interpersonal skills.
• Sensitivity to and collaboration with diverse client populations.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and exercise independent judgment, as well as part of a team.
• Excellent interpersonal skills, including the ability to build solid relationships and support among stakeholders, listen and provide assistance.

COMPENSATION

This position offers a competitive salary in the $60K range, and a generous benefits package, consistent with other nonprofit organizations of similar size, scope, and scale.

To Apply: http://nonprofittalent.theresumator.com/apply/xuorWe/Director-Of-Real-Estate-Development-The-Hazelwood-Initiative-Pittsburgh-PA.html

The Hazelwood Initiative has retained Nonprofit Talent to assist with this important organizational change process. Interested individuals wishing to confidentially discuss this opportunity may contact Todd Owens, Principal at 412.512.3879, or email Todd@NonprofitTalent.com. Please direct all inquiries related to this position to Nonprofit Talent and do not contact The Hazelwood Initiative.

The Hazelwood Initiative is an equal opportunity employer, committed to hiring and supporting a diverse and qualified workforce.

Associate or Senior Transportation Planner, Spokane Regional Transportation Council - Spokane, WA

Associate or Senior Transportation Planner

Spokane Regional Transportation Council

August 19, 2014

Professional Area: 

Transportation Planning

Experience: 

3-5 years

Contact person: 

Kevin Wallace

Phone: 

509/343-6370

Email: 

kwallace@srtc.org

Website: 

http://www.srtc.org

Location: 

Spokane, WA

The Spokane Regional Transportation Council (SRTC) is the Metropolitan Planning Organization for the Spokane region and is responsible for developing plans and programs that address the transportation needs of our area. SRTC is seeking a candidate to fill the position of either Associate Transportation Planner or Senior Transportation Planner, depending on qualifications and experience. The ideal candidate should have three to five years of prior planning experience, be an independent thinker, a good communicator, and a team player. SRTC is made up of a small staff that informs member agencies, policy boards, regional, state and federal organizations, and the public on a wide range of technical and policy issues. Applicants wishing to be considered for this position should submit a resume and cover letter to Kevin Wallace, Executive Director, Spokane Regional Transportation Council, 221 W. First Avenue, Suite 310, Spokane, WA 99201. Applicants may also apply online at www.srtc.org. The first review of applications will occur on September 12, 2014.

Senior Planner, RMA, LLC - Pompano Beach, FL

Senior Planner

RMA, LLC

August 21, 2014

Professional Area: 

Community Development and Redevelopment

Experience: 

3-5 years

Email: 

info@rma.us.com

Website: 

http://rma.us.com/careers

Location: 

Pompano Beach, FL

Position Summary: This highly responsible, professional mid-level Senior Planner, under general supervision of the Department Director, is responsible for writing text-based documents, including land development regulations, comprehensive plan amendments and design guidelines. Responsibilities also include presentation graphics, base mapping, land use planning, and entitlement processing. Project management, directing support staff and managing clients, project scheduling, and budgeting are also required duties. Travel for business within the tri-county area may be required for project work and to serve clients in various cities. The Senior Planner may also be responsible for facilitating public outreach meetings, project presentations to clients, and to public agencies. The qualified person will be expected to effectively delegate assignments, direct and manage research of code requirements, laws, ordinances, and official records, and ensure quality control in document and plan preparation.   Experience in site and master planning and feasibility studies is a plus.

Minimum Qualifications: This position requires a master’s degree in City and Regional Planning or other related field and a minimum of 4 years of professional planning experience, with substantial experience in a government setting.  A bachelor's degree in planning or a related field and six years of professional planning experience is also acceptable. Supervisory experience is preferred.  Candidate should be actively working toward professional certification and have knowledge of Florida Planning and Development Law. Proficiency in Microsoft Office is required. Knowledge of GIS, Adobe Suites AutoCAD, and/or ArcView is preferred.

Typical Functions

• Performs advanced professional work related to variety of planning assignments
• Reviews and processes complex comprehensive plan amendments, rezonings, annexations, site plans, plats
• Manages complex planning studies, development applications and reviews consultant proposals
• Conducts research and prepares statistical reports on land use, physical, social & economic issues
• Performs field inspections to gather data relevant to the development review process and/or to verify that development projects comply with approved plans
• Schedules and conducts meetings with advisory boards and elected officials
• Presents reports and other findings to staff, Planning & Zoning Board, and Council and serves as liaison to such committees
• Attends some evening and limited weekend meetings
• Supervises more junior planners within organization

Required Knowledge

• Advanced knowledge of the philosophies, principals, practices & techniques of planning
• Well-developed knowledge of one or more planning disciplines, such as urban design and land use
• Knowledge and experience in redevelopment processes
• Knowledge of principles, methodology, practices of research and data collection
• Knowledge of effective writing techniques
• Knowledge of computer hardware and software programs, which may include Microsoft Office, Internet applications, and GIS

Required Skills

• Excellent oral and written communication skills for preparing and presenting planning reports and projects
• Excellent interpersonal skills for facilitating relationships with elected/appointed officials or other decision-makers
• Creative problem-solving skills to gather relevant information to solve less well-defined planning problems
• Group facilitation skills for use with community workshops
• Ability to work on several projects or issues simultaneously
• Ability to provide effective supervision and staff management
• Ability to manage projects effectively and meet firm deadlines

Physical Requirements and Work Environment:

Performs varied administrative responsibilities; usually under moderate direct supervision, allowing latitude for use of independent judgment.  However, the position will require working with a team of professionals who take on their own assignments but also share assignments with one another.  Composes a variety of correspondence, especially to the public.  Establishes and maintains a variety of complex records and reports.  Computes and compiles data.  Sets up and maintains files.  Schedules meetings.  Observes conditions in the community, speaks with community leaders, takes photographs, and makes presentations before governmental committees, boards and community organizations.

Salary Range:  $50,000 - $85,000 DOE

Apply to:  info@rma.us.com

City Planner III/ Team Leader, East Shore Resilient Neighborhoods, NYC Department of City Planning - Staten Island, NY

City Planner III/ Team Leader – East Shore Resilient Neighborhoods

NYC Department of City Planning

August 22, 2014

Professional Area: 

Planning Management, Budgeting and Finance

Experience: 

3-5 years

Website: 

https://a127-jobs.nyc.gov/

Location: 

Staten Island, NY

City Planner III/ Team Leader – East Shore Resilient Neighborhoods

APPLICATION DEADLINE: September 5, 2014

Job Posting ID: 152671
Staten Island Borough office

The Department of City Planning is seeking a Team Leader for the Staten Island East Shore Resilient Neighborhoods Study to coordinate and guide the activities of a team of planning professionals and urban designers.

As part of the DCP’s recovery activities following Superstorm Sandy, and funded through federal Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) funding, all five borough offices are conducting neighborhood planning studies for the communities that were affected by the storm and are at risk from future coastal flooding events. The scope of the storm’s impact on the borough’s neighborhoods and recovery challenges combined with the number of agencies and elected officials all working towards finding solutions provide a unique opportunity for a team leader to develop comprehensive long-term strategies to improve flood resilience in vulnerable Staten Island communities and craft models that can be shared and applied throughout the city. Success will require a public outreach effort that will result in community supported plans for neighborhoods where the impact of Superstorm Sandy is still felt and seen; strong coordination with experts within City Planning as well as City Hall and capital agencies to analyze and identify the infrastructure needs of these neighborhoods; and implementation of zoning changes to facilitate rebuilding and long-term resiliency. This is a high profile position and the Department is seeking a Team Leader to provide leadership, direction, high-level coordination and project management support for this study. The Team Leader will work closely with specialty divisions at the Department’s headquarters in Lower Manhattan, while maintaining a home base in the Staten Island office, which is located in St. George within walking distance of the Staten Island Ferry. The Team Leader should expect to divide his/her time between Manhattan and Staten Island as he/she develops relationships with both the local communities and city and agency leaders.
Due to federal requirements, this grant funded position is for two years and the goal is to provide results within that time frame. However it is anticipated that the work necessary to respond to the storm’s impact will continue beyond that timeframe.

RESPONSIBILITIES:
Under minimal supervision, with latitude for exercising independent judgment, the Team Leader will:
- Coordinate with DCP’s Waterfront and Open Space and Strategic Planning divisions, develop work programs, establish priorities and deadlines, and manage work assignments;
- Supervise the work of a small team in the implementation of studies and reports for the East Shore study;
- Act as a direct liaison with City Hall, local elected officials, community boards, civic groups, and other city, state, and federal agencies to develop new flood resilience policies and facilitate post- Sandy rebuilding;
- Represent the Department at meetings of civic, business and community groups, community boards, elected officials and public agencies;
- Develop and maintain a working knowledge of all on-going land use, transportation and zoning studies and community initiatives and studies within the team’s assigned study area;
- Organize and lead public meetings effectively and inclusively, in communities that are still facing post-storm challenges;
- Create and organize, or supervise the creation and organization of, graphic and written material on proposals, studies and other projects.
- Develop and maintain working knowledge of planning, urban design, and zoning; and
- Perform other related tasks.

QUALIFICATIONS:
- A baccalaureate degree from an accredited college and four (4) years full-time paid experience in city planning/urban design. Graduate work leading to an advanced degree in city planning or related field may be substituted for up to two (2) years of experience on a year-for-year basis;
- Ability to work effectively in an office team structure to complete tasks, monitor the work program, manage multiple projects simultaneously, and to complete tasks in a timely fashion under minimal supervision;
- Proven experience in managing inter-agency and consultant teams including architects, planners, and other planning and design professionals on large, complex projects;
- Proven ability to coordinate, manage and monitor the work of staff, to complete tasks in a timely fashion with minimal supervision;
- Demonstrated leadership skills;
- Excellent presentation and written communication skills;
- Strong interpersonal skills and proven ability to negotiate sensitive issues;
- Demonstrated initiative, ability to work independently and communicate ideas effectively;
- Experience in community coordination and outreach, including managing public meeting, advisory committees, and social media;
- Experience conducting studies, writing reports and technical memos; and
- Experience speaking publicly and making presentations.
- Familiarity with NYC Zoning Resolution, ULURP, CEQR, and/or FEMA guidelines is a plus.
CIVIL SERVICE TITLE: City Planner, Level III

SALARY RANGE: $71,000 to $75,000 commensurate with experience and a full NYC employee benefits package

APPOINTMENT PERIOD: Appointment limited to grant duration of two years

TO APPLY: ALL APPLICATIONS MUST BE SUBMITTED THROUGH THE CITY’S E-HIRE SYSTEM.
- Go to: https://a127-jobs.nyc.gov/
- Search for job id# 152671
- Click on the job business title: Staten Island Flood Resilience City Planner III
- Click on the “Apply Now” button at the bottom of the posting on eHire

Appointments are subject to Office of Management and Budget (OMB) approval.

The candidate selected for this position must be a resident of the City of New York or become a resident within three months of appointment.

THE DEPARTMENT OF CITY PLANNING IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER AND A COPY OF THE EQUAL OPPORTUNITY PROGRAMS IS AVAILABLE IN THE PERSONNEL MANAGEMENT DIVISION. THE DEPARTMENT MAKES AVAILABLE ACCOMMODATIONS FOR DISABLED APPLICANTS.