Land Use & Community Planner

GENERAL PURPOSE
The Land Use & Community Planner plays an important role in shaping how Bar Harbor grows and develops. This position reviews development proposals and land use plans to ensure they meet local regulations while supporting the Town’s long-term vision.

Working closely with staff, applicants, and the public, the Planner helps implement the Comprehensive Plan and land use policies through both day-to-day development review and long-range planning efforts. The role also includes special projects such as researching planning issues, leading public engagement efforts, and developing practical strategies to support community goals.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED

Works under the general supervision of the Planning Director.

SUPERVISION EXERCISED

There is no supervision of other employees.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

· Provide administrative support to the Planning Board, including receiving and processing applications, and preparing notices, agendas, and minutes.

· Review and evaluate site and subdivision plans, and zoning amendments.

· Prepare written reports and present findings and recommendations.

· Coordinate application review with internal staff.

· Work with property owners, surveyors, architects, and civil engineers to help projects meet land use regulations.

· Interpret and apply Town ordinance.

· Assist with updates to and maintenance of the Comprehensive Plan and land use ordinances.

· Conduct research and support special planning projects.

· Develop strategies that support community development and efficient land use consistent with Town Council policies and approved plans.

· Attend evening meetings as required.

· Maintain planning-related content on the Town’s website and social media.

· Perform other related duties as assigned.

PERIPHERAL DUTIES

· Assist with grant research, writing, and administration for planning projects.

· Help maintain the Town’s website and public-facing planning materials.

· Perform other related duties as assigned.

DESIRED MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

· Bachelor’s degree in land use planning, public policy, geography, or another related field.

· Minimum of 5 years of related experience.

NECESSARY KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

· Strong communication, analytical, and organizational skills to evaluate complex proposals, manage competing priorities, and present clear, well-supported recommendations.

· Experience working in a public-sector environment, including supporting policymakers, boards, and committees.

· Experience with zoning codes and the development review process.

· Experience organizing and facilitating public engagement and consultation processes.

· General knowledge of state and federal laws related to planning.

· Ability to consistently interpret and apply land use ordinances and regulations.

· Ability to manage multiple projects at once and prioritize deadlines effectively.

· Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.

· Strong writing and presentation skills, including preparing clear reports and explaining information to a range of audiences.

· Sound judgment and problem-solving skills, with the ability to develop practical, workable planning solutions.

TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT USED

· Phone

· Desktop computer

· Computer software such as, but not limited to, MS Word, MS Excel, Canva, ArcGIS Story Map, and Sketch Up.

· Copier and Scanner

· Postage Machine

· 10-key calculator

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

· Valid driver’s license.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

The work environment and characteristics described here are representative of those an employee may encounter while performing the essential functions and duties of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be provided to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions and duties.

· The noise level in the work environment is usually quiet. Site visits may involve exposure to higher noise level.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

This position requires office-based work with some field activities in a variety of environmental conditions. While performing field duties, the employee is regularly required to traverse forested areas and uneven terrain.

The employee must be able to:

· Stand, sit, talk or hear, use hands to finger, handle, feel or operate objects, tools or controls, and reach with hands and arms for prolonged periods of time.

· Conduct site visits on foot over uneven, steep, or rugged terrain.

· Work outdoors in varying weather conditions, including heat, cold, rain, and snow.

· Bend, kneel, crouch, or stoop when observing or documenting site conditions.

· Occasionally lift and carry materials or equipment (e.g., maps, field tools, survey equipment) typically up to 15 pounds.

· Operate a motor vehicle to travel to field sites and meetings.

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.

A full job description can be found at www.barharbormaine.gov/jobs

To apply, please submit a resume and cover letter to HR@barharbormaine.gov or mail to:

Town of Bar Harbor
Attn: Human Resources
93 Cottage Street
Bar Harbor, ME 04609

Pay: $29.00 - $34.50 per hour

Benefits:

• 457(b)
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Ability to Commute:

• Bar Harbor, ME 04609 (Required)

Work Location: In person