Shared Town Planner

Town of Mattapoisett•Mattapoisett, MA

16d•Onsite

About The Position

The Shared Town Planner provides administrative, professional, and technical planning support equally to the Towns of Acushnet and Mattapoisett, primarily in support of both Planning Boards. The role helps coordinate the applications, programs, and decisions that shape short- and long-range community plans in accordance with the towns’ goals. It also serves as a public-facing point of contact for residents, builders, developers, vendors, outside agencies, and town departments on planning, land use, and economic development matters. Working under the direction of the Town Administrator and with guidance from the Planning Boards, the planner exercises independent judgment on land-use processes and statutory compliance. The position supports boards and committees, administers planning policies and procedures, develops and coordinates planning studies and plans, and assists with grants, budgets, records, and department operations. Work is based in a municipal office, with occasional site visits to properties in the towns. The role requires tactful public communication, organization, accuracy, and the ability to work independently amid frequent interruptions.

Requirements

At least a bachelor’s degree in planning or a related field, or comparable qualifications through training and experience.
Two to five years of experience in land use or municipal planning, or a combination of training and experience; candidates with comparable experience are encouraged to apply.
Knowledge of Microsoft Office products.
Ability to communicate clearly in writing and orally.
Ability to work independently, handle multiple tasks, and meet deadlines.
Ability to read plans.
Ability to collaborate with Planning Board members, town employees, outside agencies, residents, and vendors.
Ability to exercise independent judgment and resolve problems.
Honesty, reliability, discretion, and good judgment.
Ability to operate general office equipment, including a computer, calculator, fax machine, and copier.
Possess and maintain a valid driver’s license.

Nice To Haves

Knowledge of best practices for municipalities.
Knowledge of municipal planning, zoning, and conservation procedures.
General understanding of local government operations.

Responsibilities

Administer the towns’ land-use processes and coordinate land-use board actions, ensuring compliance with statutory requirements.
Draft amendments to town bylaws and specific rules and regulations concerning land development; prepare required reports and maintain records.
Provide administrative support to the Planning Boards, including preparing for and attending meetings, researching applications and petitions, administering policies and procedures, and supplying information or assistance.
Develop, update, and coordinate implementation of a master plan and open space plan.
Develop, implement, and administer planning studies related to land use, development, and infrastructure, and provide recommendations regarding town land.
Provide leadership and technical assistance to the business community in developing and implementing business-retention programs.
Serve as a liaison to state and federal officials on planning issues affecting the communities.
Work with developers, engineers, attorneys, and others involved in development; help negotiate impact fees and public infrastructure improvements.
Advise boards, committees, commissions, town departments, and the public on planning-related matters, including zoning, site plans, subdivisions, and related procedures.
Respond to inquiries and complaints, explain policies and procedures, and assist with problem resolution.
Promote interdepartmental plan review and develop procedures to streamline information.
Ensure compliance with Planning Board decisions.
Work with regional planning agencies, including SRPEDD, and other organizations on planning and development programs and grant opportunities.
Write grant applications and oversee awarded grants and their implementation; cooperate on grant-related projects.
Prepare and submit Planning Board annual budgets and annual reports; administer the approved Planning Department budget and monitor expenditures.
Manage day-to-day department operations and ensure coverage of daily business hours.
Answer questions from property owners, developers, residents, and builders about current and future land-use plans.
Process forms, applications, reports, and other information; maintain department files and records.
Attend required meetings, training sessions, and appointments, and complete special projects or other duties as needed.