Job

Neighborhood Planner, City of Lowell, Massachusetts

The City of Lowell, Massachusetts, a historic mill city with a vibrant downtown, strong traditional neighborhoods, a new community Master Plan, is seeking a Planner to join the professional staff at the Division of Planning and Development, to manage neighborhood planning projects, participate in project review, engage in community planning and outreach and help in shaping development within the city.

This person:

• Participates in the development and preparation of policies, goals, neighborhood plans, topical studies, grant applications and other planning efforts to support the implementation of Lowell 'sComprehensive Master Plan.
• prepares maps, images, charts and other graphics in support of various planning projects, using assorted GIS and graphic design software packages.
• Serves as project manager for neighborhood planning projects,intersection improvement projects, city ' yard sale ' and 'parking condo ' programs, and other projects and programs as assigned.
• Develops short and long-range strategies to enhance the quality of life in Lowell's neighborhoods. Works closely with the Coordinator of Neighborhood Services and others to determine and respond to the planning needs in the neighborhoods.
• Assembles and analyzes census, land use, development and historical data as a basis for neighborhood planning
• Organizes and advertises public meetings and conducts other public outreach / participation efforts associated with planning projects
• Completes special projects as designated by the Chief Planner
• May represent the City at City Council meetings, planning and zoning board meetings and neighborhood group meetings. Attendance at night and weekend meetings may be required

Requirements:

Bachelors degree in urban planning, public administration, political science or related field from a four-year college or university is required. Three to four years of related experience and/or a masters degree in urban planning preferred. Grant writing experience preferred. Experience with graphic design, modeling, drafting, publication, layout software and visualization techniques is preferred. Knowledge of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) is required. Project management experience is a plus. The applicant must understand the theory, principles, standards and practices of urban planning, traditional neighborhood design, and the tools and techniques for creating and sustaining vibrant urban neighborhoods. The applicant must also have experience building consensus and developing independent programs and policies in a fast paced environment.

The salary for this position is $ 37,301.00 annually.

Qualified, interested applicants should e-mail a cover letter and resume with three references to the HR office ( cityjobs@lowellma.gov) with a copy to George Proakis at: gproakis@lowellma.gov A full job description should be posted here: http://www.lowellma.gov/depts/hr/job-postings within a few days.

Deadline: August 31, 2007