UIC CUPPA Careers Blog: Project Planner - Friends of the Chicago River

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Who: Friends of the Chicago River

What: A key member of the policy and planning team, the project planner plays a central role in supporting planning initiatives and programs that lead to systematic improvement of the Chicago River system and that meet Friends’ vision for the Chicago River system. The project planner works with the policy and planning team in responding to emerging and ongoing issues facing the river system and surrounding watershed communities. The project planner will help drive creative thinking and innovation to expand recognition of Friends as a thought-leader in future-focused watershed advocacy.

Responsibilities:

• With the oversight of the director of planning, manages the creation of the Strategic Watershed Land Use Plan project with input from a steering committee of partner organizations.

• Supports the Chicago River Watershed Council, Wildlife Corridor Connectivity Action Plan, River Recovery and Conservation Plan, and other core planning and policy projects.

• Provides input and creativity into these projects drawn on past experiences with watershed and/or environmental planning, analysis, and mapping.

• Uses GIS mapping analysis, Story Maps, and other data visualization and analysis tools to support policy and planning projects.

• Assists in producing written planning reports, documents, maps, diagrams, presentations, and outreach materials.

• Assists in meeting management, preparations, and facilitation.

• Helps maintain applicable communications materials related to planning work.

• Participates in Friends’ annual all-staff events

Qualifications:

• A degree in urban planning, geography, public administration, environmental planning or related field.

• Proficiency with ArcMap, ArcGIS Pro, and ArcGIS Online software and online tools.

• Work samples of related GIS tool creation or analysis projects.

• A minimum of 3 years of professional experience directly related to this position, with additional professional experience preferred.

• Experience with graphic and document production techniques using Adobe software.

• Direct experience with water related planning, green infrastructure projects, watershed planning, and/or policy is desired.

• Knowledge of and an enthusiasm for the Chicago area waterways and natural areas is desired.

• Ability to use past experience, research, and innovation to advance projects.

• Excellent communication skills and desire to work both independently and as part of collaborative team.

• Experience managing a work plan and prioritizing tasks to meet program and organizational goals.

• Ability to serve with alacrity.

Apply here. Application instructions at bottom of document.