Job Description

1st Choice is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Senior Community Development Planner to join a dynamic team within a fast-paced planning department. The ideal candidate will be responsible for leading advanced planning tasks that emphasize land use, zoning, and community development. This position requires a high level of technical expertise to handle complex projects that involve coordination with various stakeholders, including other department staff, county agencies, and citizens. The Senior Community Development Planner will also engage in high-level policy discussions and contribute to legislative planning initiatives, helping shape the future of local development.

As a Senior Community Development Planner, you will serve as an expert resource for long-range planning initiatives and zoning regulations, guiding projects that have a significant impact on community development. This role offers a unique opportunity to collaborate with professionals from various sectors, providing leadership in urban design, land use law, and zoning policies. If you are passionate about making a lasting impact on urban planning and community development, this is the ideal opportunity to apply your expertise and leadership skills to meaningful projects.

• Location: Largo, Maryland
• Job Type: Full-time, Hybrid (3 days onsite, 2 days virtual)
• Work Schedule: Monday to Friday, 8 AM – 5 PM (with possible flexibility during standard business hours)

Key Responsibilities:

• Zoning and Subdivision Review: Review applications for conformance to County Code , including Zoning and Subdivision regulations . Lead project consultations and coordinate departmental recommendations for a variety of applications such as rezoning cases , special exceptions , departures , and subdivisions .
• Land Use and Zoning Expertise: Provide expertise in zoning regulations , land use law , and urban design to effectively review and analyze development proposals.
• Planning Studies and Projects: Conduct detailed studies and planning projects requested by elected officials , the Planning Board , and the Planning Director .
• Legislative Support: Assist in drafting proposals for state and local legislation related to planning and zoning matters.
• Stakeholder Collaboration: Work with developers , attorneys , architects , engineers , government agencies , and citizens to resolve complex planning issues and provide professional advice.
• Public Hearing Presentations: Prepare and present information to the Planning Board , County Council , and Zoning Hearing Examiner during public hearings.
• Project Management: Oversee multi-year planning projects , ensuring timely completion and coordination among stakeholders.
• Staff Training: Mentor and train junior staff in planning principles , zoning laws , and project management .

Skills, Knowledge, and Qualifications:Education:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Urban Planning , Geography , Land Use Law , Environmental Science , Public Policy , Political Science , or a related field.
• Master’s Degree in Planning or a related discipline preferred.

Experience:

Six (6) years of progressively responsible professional planning experience , including project consultation, coordination, and land use/zoning analysis .

Government or public-sector planning experience is a plus.

Technical Skills:

• Expertise in land use , zoning regulations , and master planning processes.
• Proficiency in planning software (e.g., ArcGIS , AutoCAD ).
• Knowledge of environmental , transportation , and historic preservation planning.

Legislative and Regulatory Knowledge:

• Strong understanding of local and state land use law and legislative processes .
• Experience managing legislation through the legislative process and drafting proposals .
• Project Management:
• Experience leading multi-year planning projects with diverse stakeholders
• Ability to manage projects , timelines , and resources effectively.

Communication Skills:

• Strong written and verbal communication skills to explain complex planning concepts.
• Experience presenting to Planning Boards , County Councils , and other public officials .

Collaboration & Leadership:

• Proven ability to work collaboratively with government agencies , developers , and community stakeholders .
• Ability to lead teams , mentor junior staff , and train on planning principles .

Background Requirements:

• Comprehensive background investigation , including criminal , education , and employment/professional references .
• Valid Driver’s License (depending on area of assignment) in accordance with both State and Client rules and regulations. The driver’s license must be unencumbered by restrictions, revocations, suspensions, or points that could limit the employee’s ability to drive Client vehicles or perform driving duties required by the position of assignment.

What We Offer:

• A collaborative work environment with opportunities to lead high-impact projects .
• Exposure to complex planning and zoning matters in a rapidly developing region .
• A chance to work with a diverse and dynamic team of professionals.
• Competitive compensation and benefits package .

If you are passionate about community planning and want to contribute your expertise to impactful development projects, apply now to join the team!

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