Placemaking Planner II (14844 Grade 24)

The Maryland-National Capital Park & Planning Commission•Largo, MD

6d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Prince George’s County Planning Department of The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission is seeking a Placemaking Planner II for its Placemaking Section. The position supports efforts to revitalize urban and suburban areas through thoughtful design, community engagement, and strategic implementation. Working under general supervision and supporting the Placemaking Project Manager, the planner contributes to multidisciplinary projects that transform underutilized spaces into active, inclusive community places. The role primarily focuses on working with communities to implement local projects, and may also support placemaking events, community outreach, research for the Comprehensive Plan 5-Year Review, and small-scale projects. The Planning Department provides land-use planning for the physical development of Prince George’s County, Maryland. Its work includes community plans, neighborhood revitalization programs, and implementation programs. The position may provide planning services in an assigned area of the County, including development and permit review, and collaborates with staff from other sections and divisions. The position works in an office and requires field work for site selection, event planning, and events. Attendance at or facilitation of public meetings and events in the evening or on weekends is required. The department offers telework opportunities of up to two days per week and flexible schedules. The role is based in Largo, Maryland, near Metro and I-495. Salary is commensurate with education and experience, within the listed range of $65,465 to $115,941.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Planning, Geography, Architecture, Parks and Recreation, Transportation, Urban Design, Engineering, Environmental Science, Public Policy, Economics, or a related field.
Two years of progressively responsible professional-level planning experience or experience in a specific area of assignment, such as transportation, environmental, or urban planning. An equivalent combination of education and experience may be substituted, totaling six years.
Valid driver’s license, depending on area of assignment, in accordance with State and Commission rules and regulations; the license must be unencumbered by restrictions, revocations, suspensions, or points that could limit driving Commission vehicles or performing required driving duties.
Ability to support placemaking projects from initiation through implementation.
Strong understanding of urban dynamics, placemaking principles, and community-engagement best practices.
Strong analytical and critical-thinking skills; organization, dependability, and ability to work proactively and independently within the work program.
Ability to prioritize tasks, meet timelines, and support tracking resources effectively.
Excellent written and verbal communication and interpersonal skills, including the ability to engage diverse stakeholders, build consensus, and address groups ranging from elected leaders to community residents.
Ability to serve the public, collaborate with agencies and departments, and work closely with planning team members.
Ability to adapt to change, work flexibly, and shift priorities comfortably.
May be subject to medical, drug, and alcohol testing.
Submit a cover letter, resume, and brief portfolio of placemaking or redevelopment work with the application.

Nice To Haves

Experience supporting placemaking projects, preferably in community development, a business improvement district, a main street coalition, or an urban design context.
Experience in a placemaking role with a Business Improvement District or Main Street Coalition.
Experience with Office 365 (Word, PowerPoint, Excel, and Outlook), SharePoint/Teams, and GIS.
Proficiency with design software such as AutoCAD, Adobe Creative Suite, or SketchUp.
Multilingual verbal and writing skills; Spanish is desired.

Responsibilities

Support the Placemaking Project Manager in developing and executing placemaking initiatives from conception through completion, aligning work with organizational goals and community needs.
Collaborate with urban planners, architects, landscape designers, community stakeholders, and other cross-functional partners to conceptualize and implement projects.
Provide design input, including using design software to communicate ideas to colleagues, community members, and other partners.
Conduct site assessments, research, and analysis to inform project strategies and design solutions that enhance the built environment and promote social interaction.
Help prepare community engagement activities, workshops, and events to solicit feedback, build consensus, and foster stakeholder ownership.
Participate in partnership meetings with local and county governments, nonprofits, businesses, community organizations, and other entities; take meeting notes and assist in preparing and distributing materials.
Work with communities to help implement local projects and support placemaking events, outreach, and research for the Comprehensive Plan 5-Year Review as needed.
May provide planning services in an assigned County area, including development and permit review.
Collaborate with staff from other sections and divisions as needed.
Perform other related duties as assigned.

Benefits

Telework opportunities of up to two days per week.
Flexible schedules.
Complimentary access to M-NCPPC gymnasiums throughout Prince George’s County.
Free employee parking.
Tuition reimbursement/assistance program, subject to annual budget allocations and program funding availability.
Positions may qualify for federal student loan forgiveness assistance.
Generous leave.
Extensive health coverage.
Deferred compensation plan.
Employee pension plan.