Dir of Planning & Community Development

Director of Planning and Community Development The City of Easthampton is seeking a skilled professional for the role of Director of Planning and Community Development to help the City fulfill established goals and create a vision for the future. The ideal candidate will have experience overseeing staff, applying for and managing grants, and fostering a sense of community. The Director manages planning and land use controls and coordinators and shapes the city\'s short and long-range physical, social, and economic needs. The Director works closely with businesses, developers, municipal departments, elected officials, and the public in the pre-developmental and developmental process. Job Type: Full Time, 37.5 Hours Per Week Salary: \$79,000 - \$95,000 Annually ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: Oversees long-term city planning efforts, including grants, administration, and special visioning projects. Develops, implements, and manages the department capital and operating budgets. Sets departmental policies and procedures and conducts most internal and external City Planning Department business. Oversees, mentors, and supports department staff. Supports, assists, and advises on various projects, initiatives, boards, and committees staff administers. Works closely with the Mayor\'s office, DPW, and other city departments on certain City-wide projects. Initiates, oversees, and manages many current complex and long-duration grants as part of general operations. Primary staff support for several boards and committees: City Council, Economic Development & Industrial Committee (EDIC), Economic Development Partners (EDP; Regional), Valley Development Council (PVPC; Regional) Serves as a professional advisor to the Planning Board for larger development projects. Manages and participates in the development review process for projects. Conducts technical research studies and prepares statistical reports and recommendations for drafting or revising local legislation and plans, projecting trends, and monitoring socioeconomic data. Leads Comprehensive Master Plan implementation activities. Develops and recommends strategies, programs, activities, and collateral materials for effective community and economic development programs and projects. Communicates and coordinates activities with regional economic development groups and chambers of commerce. Guides property and business owners looking to open or expand businesses. Meets with developers to review alternatives for achieving desired project outcomes EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE: Master\'s degree in urban or regional planning or related field, and 10 years of related experience specific to Massachusetts; or any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience. Massachusetts Motor Vehicle Operator license American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) credentials preferred