Regional Planner & Policy Analyst, Northwestern Indiana Regional Planning Commission - Portage, IN

NORTHWESTERN INDIANA REGIONAL PLANNING COMMISSION
Planning for a region of 770,000 people (per 2010 Census) in the Chicago Metropolitan Area
POSITION TITLE: Regional Planner & Policy Analyst
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS, KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Familiarity with regional planning and demographic concepts
  
• Bachelor’s degree is required in urban or regional planning, information science
  or a related field.
  
• Master’s degree with at least two years of experience is desired. AICP
  certification is preferred.
  
• Demonstrated abilities in use of spreadsheets, word processing, presentation
  graphics and communications software, along with working knowledge of GIS.
  
• Knowledge and experience in identifying data sources, conducting research and
  analysis, and retrieving, accessing and working with U.S. Census and other
  Federal and State information.
  
• Ability to quickly respond to requests for information and analysis, identify and
  project trends, and interpret and relate data to overall regional goals.
  
• Proficiency in basic math skills, including fundamental statistical analysis, as
  well as English grammar
  
• Strong written and verbal communications and customer service abilities
  
• Demonstrated ability to prepare and give public presentations while making
  information understandable
  
• Problem-solving and time management skills, and a customer-oriented service
  ethic
  
• Ability to work effectively as a team member
  
• Ability to organize and prioritize multiple tasks
  GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF ANTICIPATED DUTIES
  

• Position the agency as a go-to source for identifying and interpreting regional trends

Page 1 of 2, 2.4.15

• Conduct policy analysis of freight and logistics planning, economic development, and other planning activities related to updates and implementation of the 2040 Comprehensive Regional Plan
  
• Manage demographic, transportation performance, environmental justice, economic, housing, fiscal and other data for internal and external users
  
• Establish and organize a regional, open-source data clearinghouse
  
• Analyze demographic, statistical and financial data, relate to overall regional goals, develop recommendations, and clearly communicate findings based on this
  analysis
  
• Prepare and format data, information and other materials to support planning and
  programming
  
• Respond to internal and external inquiries pertaining to data, information,
  analysis, display and interpretation
  
• Extract and analyze demographic data for use in travel demand modeling and
  other planning activities
  
• Forecast distributions of regional population, households, employment and other
  socio-economic attributes
  
• Prepare reports, planning documents and apply for grants, as required
  
• Expected to travel and attend events outside the office
  
• Update and maintain statistical data for agency website and reporting
  ANTICIPATED POSITION CLASSIFICATION: Full-time – Professional A SALARY / WAGE PARAMETERS: Salary: $41,368 – 45,505 depending on
  qualifications
  RESERVED RIGHT OF EMPLOYER / APPLICATION DEADLINE:
  The employer reserves the right not to fill this position. Apply by 4:30 p.m. March 20, 2015. However, the position will remain open until filled.
  APPLY WITH LETTER, RESUME AND PERSONAL AND PROFESSIONAL REFERENCES VIA EMAIL TO:
  Steve Strains AICP, Deputy Director/ Director of Planning Northwestern Indiana Regional Planning Commission 6100 Southport Road, Portage, IN 46324
  
  

Special Projects Planner, Shreveport Metropolitan Planning Commission of Caddo Parish - Shreveport, LA

Special Projects Planner 

Shreveport Metropolitan Planning Commission of Caddo Parish

January 5, 2015 

Experience: 

5-7 years

Contact person: 

Diane Tullos

Phone: 

318-673-6480

Fax: 

318-673-6461

Email: 

Diane.Tullos@shreveportla.gov

Website: 

http://www.shreveportcaddompc.com

Location: 

Shreveport, LA

Notice of Position Opening

Special Projects Planner

The Shreveport/Caddo Parish Metropolitan Planning Commission (MPC) is an independent agency enabled by Louisiana State statute to manage the orderly development of the City of Shreveport, Louisiana and extra jurisdictional territory up to five miles beyond the city limits. The agency is governed by a nine member citizen board comprised of appointees of the local governing bodies.  The board delegates the authority for the daily and long range operations of the agency to an Executive Director appointed by the MPC.

The City of Shreveport and Caddo Parish (County), beginning in 2011 adopted a new comprehensive plan, began the process of developing a new unified development code, and has undertaken other initiatives to implement the comprehensive plan. To continue our emphasis on strategic planning, the Executive Director is seeking a qualified candidate whose primary initial role shall include the duties described herein.

GENERAL DESCRIPTION

The Special Projects Planner is responsible for the management and coordination of specific assigned projects and programs which may include complex planning projects, master plan implementation, policy and ordinance development, and strategic planning initiatives. Manages outreach and information to support the agency’s programs and activities including website content, media releases, and written reports and materials.  Researches and develops new project recommendations for the organization including training and funding opportunities. Serves, at the discretion of the Executive Director, as his designated liaison with various organizations, community groups, and stakeholders.  Works under moderate supervision with a high degree of latitude in order to exercise initiative and independent judgment.

EXAMPLES OF WORK PERFORMED

• Performs advanced professional work related to a variety of planning assignments.
• Manages complex planning studies, development applications and reviews consultant proposals.
• Develops project budgets, administers bidding process, verifies contract expenditures and compliance.
• Conducts research and prepares statistical reports on land use, physical, social and economic issues.
• Presents reports and other findings to staff, MPC Board, Zoning Board of Appeals, City Council and Parish Commission.
• Assists in the implementation of the adopted Shreveport-Caddo 2030 Great Expectations Master Plan. 
• Monitors compliance with the Master Plan objectives and provides periodic reports on implementation progress.
• Serves as the Executive Director’s designated liaison in communicating and coordinating activities with government departments, elected leaders, appointed boards and private or nonprofit groups as it relates to the content or policies of the adopted plan and other planning initiatives.
• Assists with the coordination, adoption and implementation of the Unified Development Code (UDC).
• Coordinates, composes, designs, and edits agency website content and publications.
• Identifies funding opportunities and writes grant applications for the organization.
• Conducts benchmarking and analysis of best practices to enhance internal policies and procedures.
• Provides basic support working with correspondence, editing documents, meeting coordination, and conference/workshop planning.
• Provides advocacy and assistance to various entities, including neighborhood or citizen groups, in moving toward development of neighborhood plans in the Planning Districts or Sub-districts identified in the comprehensive plan.
• Participates in the development of any new components or amendments to the comprehensive plan including a minimum five-year plan review and update process.
• Develops and conducts surveys or develops other tools designed to solicit input from area residents regarding a variety of planning topics and issues.
• Organizes, conducts and reports on citizen outreach efforts in connection with specific planning efforts.
• Performs other duties as assigned by the Executive Director.

GENERAL QUALIFICATIONS

         Education and Experience

         The Special Projects Planner position requires a master’s degree in planning or related field and four years of professional planning experience.  The MPC will consider candidates possessing a bachelor’s degree in planning or a related field and six years of professional planning experience.  AICP Certification is preferred.  Must have strong communications skills as well as experience with   developing content for reports, media releases, and websites.  Experience working in a governmental entity is preferred.

           Knowledge

•  Advanced knowledge of the philosophies, practices & techniques of planning.
• Well-developed knowledge of one or more planning disciplines, such as urban design, affordable housing, economic development, or land use.
• Knowledge and experience in inner city development and redevelopment issues and strategies.
• Knowledge of principles, methodology, practices of research and data collection.
• Knowledge of effective writing techniques
• Knowledge of computer hardware and software programs, which include Microsoft Office, Internet applications, and GIS.

        Skills and Abilities

• 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.
• Project management experience.
• 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 manage projects effectively and meet firm deadlines.
• Ability to exercise initiative without supervision or guidance.
• Ability to keep the Executive Director up-to-date at all times on all key issues and to follow through effectively on implementing his decisions and requests.
• Consistently demonstrates respect, responsiveness, and professionalism towards others while providing superior service for customers.
• Works effectively with colleagues, subordinates, and supervisors from all backgrounds and levels.

Salary Range

$62,000 - $72,000 annually

Deadline and Form of Response

A letter of interest, resume, six professional references, and salary history will be accepted by e-mail or postal service until the close of business on February 3, 2015 as follows:

Attention:  Mark W. Sweeney, AICP, Executive Director

Shreveport/Caddo Parish MPC

505 Travis Street, Suite 440

Shreveport, LA 71101

Diane.Tullos@shreveportla.gov

Associate Planner (Comprehensive Planning), Clarion Associates - Denver, CO

Associate Planner (Comprehensive Planning) 

Clarion Associates

December 17, 2014 

Experience: 

1-3 years

Email: 

hiring@clarionassociates.com

Website: 

http://www.clarionassociates.com

Location: 

Denver, CO

Clarion Associates is a nationally recognized consulting firm specializing in land-use planning, sustainability, zoning and plan implementation, and historic preservation.  We have offices in Denver, Colorado; Chapel Hill, North Carolina; and affiliated offices in Chicago, Cincinnati, and Philadelphia. For more information, please see www.clarionassociates.com.

About the Position: We are looking for a full-time associate who will be an integral part of our growing Denver office.  Primary responsibilities for this position will be to provide support for all aspects of the firm’s planning practice, including, but not limited to:

• Research and analysis of trends and best practices;
• Preparation of community outreach materials and participation in public meetings;
• Advanced GIS analysis and mapping;
• Preparation and proofreading of complex and graphic rich plan documents (using both Microsoft Word and InDesign);
• Development of website and social media content;
• Preparation of proposals and other marketing materials; and
• Preparation of concept diagrams, site plans, and 3-D illustrations.

The successful candidate will be a highly motivated team player, capable of juggling multiple tasks and deadlines in a fast-paced environment and interacting with clients and members of the public.  Candidates will be expected to meet high standards of professional quality. 

Location:  The position will be located in Clarion’s downtown Denver office, but the successful candidate will also work closely with our Chapel Hill office. Candidates must either live in Denver or be willing to relocate; teleworking is not available for this position. Some travel is required.

Requirements: The ideal candidate will have 2-5 years of related professional experience. The candidate must be a strong writer with an eye for translating complex ideas and information into concise, user-friendly materials and documents. In addition, the candidate should have excellent oral English communication skills and be comfortable with public speaking. Proficiency in Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and ArcGIS required. Knowledge of Sketch-Up, InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop, and other graphics programs is a plus.

This is a full-time position. We provide a full range of competitive benefits and compensation commensurate with experience. Clarion Associates is an equal opportunity employer.

To apply: Send a resume and cover letter, writing sample, and a portfolio illustrating your graphic and GIS capabilities (10 pages maximum) to hiring@clarionassociates.com no later than 5:00 p.m. on January 16, 2015. Our review process opens immediately and we will consider resume submissions as they arrive.

Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning-Web Developer- Chicago, IL

Web Front-End Developer (WFED65) April 9, 2014

Company/Agency: Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning
Job Category: Assistant
Experience Required: 0 – 3 years
Salary Range: Commensurate with experience

The Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning is seeking to hire a Web Front-End Developer. CMAP is
the official regional planning organization for the northeastern Illinois counties of Cook, DuPage,
Kane, Kendall, Lake, McHenry, and Will. CMAP developed and now guides the implementation of
metropolitan Chicago's first comprehensive regional plan in more than 100 years, GO TO 2040, which
was adopted unanimously by leaders from across the seven counties in fall 2010. To address
anticipated population growth of more than 2 million new residents, GO TO 2040 is an innovative,
policy-based plan that establishes coordinated strategies that help the region’s 284 communities
address transportation, housing, economic development, open space, the environment, and other
quality-of-life issues. See www.cmap.illinois.gov for more information.

Position Description
Individual will work with Communications Director to enhance the CMAP website to better
communicate agency priorities through development of the agency's web front end. This position
includes designing, developing, testing and maintaining web applications within a Microsoft
platform. The CMAP website (www.cmap.illinois.gov) is based on a commercially supported,
open-source portal-based CMS. The agency contracts with web development and hosting consultants and
the CMAP web front-end developer will help guide those consultants' efforts while also leading
development projects that are independent of the consultants. The qualified candidate must be a
self-starter who enjoys working with technology to achieve web communication objectives and be
visually oriented, creative, and highly attuned to the user's experience.

Essential Functions:
•  Develop easy-to-maintain web tools and templates that enhance the agency's website.
•  Program and implement web content that is faithful to design mockups.
•  Interface with web hosting and development consultants under contract to CMAP.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
Attention to detail and taking responsibility for fine tuning and quality checking, is required.
The successful candidate will have the following skills and abilities:


•  a creative mindset and good eye for design issues (graphics, typography, and spacing), as well
as high standards of quality assurance.



•  experience developing standards-based, semantic and well-formatted HTML5, CSS3, JavaScript and
other UI technologies.
•  experience with CSS preprocessors (SASS, Less, Stylus).
•  web/application server administration experience (Apache, Tomcat, etc.).
•  experience with Apache Velocity
•  working knowledge of web analytics and SEO best practices
•  familiarity with version control, browser testing, and responsive design



Education and/or Experience
Bachelor's degree in computer science or other appropriate IT discipline and prior work
experience in web front-end development is required. Experience working within a Microsoft Windows
environment and developing for Linux based web applications required. Candidates must be at ease
working in the context of a complex web application, while not necessarily understanding all of its
intricacies. Familiarity with Javascript markup libraries (e.g., jQuery, YUI, Prototype, Ext) and
Java template engines is necessary (e.g., Velocity, Freemarker). Candidate should have experience
working collaboratively with graphic designers and be familiar with PhotoShop and/or comparable
image processing software (e.g., Gimp, Fireworks).

Experience with Firebug (and/or equivalents) for troubleshooting and quality assurance; building
repeatable Visual Test Scripts; creating email templates and testing; backbone or Angular; Java;
Liferay and Design and Branding are desirable skills but not required.

Resume and/or cover letter should include links to recent web projects, briefly indicating the type
and extent of involvement.

Office Automation  Skills: MS Word, Access, Excel, Power Point.

Contact  Information:
Send your resume and cover letter with at least four links to recent web projects, briefly
indicating the type and extent of involvement. Include Job Code WFED65.

Email:
hresources@cmap.illinois.gov

Mail:
Human Resources
CMAP: Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning
233 S. Wacker Drive, Suite 800
Chicago, IL 60606

Emailed resumes will receive an auto receipt. Position open until filled. The Chicago
Metropolitan Agency for Planning is an Equal Opportunity Employer.