Call for Nominations is now open

Call for Nominations!

Serving as an elected leader in APA offers a tremendous opportunity to sharpen your skills, expand your networks, and work directly to strengthen the impact of the organization. The portal for candidate self-nominations will be open through May 30th at https://apa.directnominations.net and includes all the groups and positions up for election this year. Learn more at https://www.planning.org/elections/

Chapter Administrator, expressions of interest sought

The New York Upstate Chapter of the American Planning Association is seeking expressions of interest from qualified firms or individuals able to provide the services of Chapter Administrator. The Chapter Administrator provides services as a consultant in accordance with a Scope of Services and is not an employee of the Chapter or the American Planning Association. The term of the agreement for the engagement is typically 12 months. The Chapter is accepting expressions of interest through May 24, 2024. A full request for proposals is expected to be released by May 31, 2024.

Prior scopes of service have included the following tasks:

  • Coordinate of communications among Executive Board, Sections and the general membership as directed, primarily through electronic forms of communication and often occurs weekly.

  • Assist with the Annual Conference and a spring chapter event, including soliciting and managing sponsorships, and promoting both events.

  • Assist the Professional Development Officer to register and promote upcoming Certification Maintenance and other development opportunities.

  • Manage chapter communications, including email updates (via MailChimp or similar), postings to the web site (CMS-based), and monitoring the Chapter email account (via Google Workspace).

  • Solicit sponsorships for the website, annual conference, and any other opportunity by email and possibly phone follow-ups.

  • Act as a liaison to partner organizations on behalf of the Chapter in order to facilitate more effective communication between the Chapter and our allied professional organizations, including AIA, ASLA, and the New York Planning Federation (NYPF).

  • Perform additional tasks not included in the scope and assigned by the Executive Board as agreed upon and documented in a written task order on an hourly or other fee basis.

You may submit an expression of interest to the Chapter President via email at president@nyupstateplanning.org. Please provide the following:

  • Name of the firm or individual expressing interest.

  • A summary of key qualifications and experience working with membership-based organizations.

  • Annotated resumes of key staff assigned to provide Chapter Administrator support.

  • A fee proposal based on approximately 250 hours of work per year in consideration of the scope above.

  • Contact information for additional questions or follow-up.

Job Posting: Grant Coordinator for Lewis County Planning & Community Development Department

Lewis County is currently seeking a full-time Grant Coordinator. The work involves the responsibility of managing a variety of grants for Lewis County for projects that are coordinated by the Lewis County Planning and Community Development department. This includes the coordination and review of Federal, State, and Local contracts and policies, budget administration, program management, record keeping, and inter-agency collaboration. Starting salary is $27.65/hr. with excellent benefits and NYS retirement.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: Either: (A) Graduation from a regionally accredited or New York State registered college or university with a bachelor's degree in Public Administration, Business Administration, Communications, Planning, Government or closely related field with similar course curriculum and one year of full-time paid work experience in grant writing, grant procurement, coordination or administration of a public or private grant; or (B) Graduation from a regionally accredited or New York State registered college or university with an Associate’s degree in Public Administration, Business Administration, Communications, Planning, Government or closely related field with similar course curriculum and four (4) years of experience in grant writing, grant procurement, coordination or administration of a public or private grant; or (C) An equivalent combination of training and experience sufficient to demonstrate the ability to perform the work.

The successful candidate will be required to pass a competitive Civil Service Examination and be reachable for appointment on the resulting Civil Service List. This position will be filled in accordance with Civil Service Rules and Regulations. Apply online at https://lewiscountyny.gov under Human Services and Job Postings. EOE.

Job Opening: Transportation Planner for the Capital Region Transportation Council

The Capital Region Transportation Council (Transportation Council) is the Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) for the Capital Region based in Albany, New York. The Transportation Council works with State, regional, and local government partners to plan for and implement a safe, resilient, and modern transportation system. We are seeking Transportation Planners to support the development and implementation of the region’s Metropolitan Transportation Plan, support community planning studies, work with geospatial data and use GIS, and to implement Clean Cities programs. Clean Cities is a US Department of Energy program with a network of coalitions that provide educational and networking opportunities on alternative fuels, advanced vehicle technologies and alternative fuel vehicles. The Transportation Council hosts the Capital District Clean Communities Coalition. Transportation planners will be supervised by the Executive Director and senior staff and are expected to work in a team environment, capable of managing multiple tasks concurrently. Ideal candidates are excellent communicators, self-starters, motivators, and leaders.

Minimum Qualifications

• Master’s degree in transportation planning, urban and regional planning, GIS, geospatial sciences, geography, environmental planning, or a related field; OR

• Bachelor’s degree in transportation planning, urban and regional planning, GIS, geospatial sciences, geography, environmental planning, or a related field with two (2) years of workplace experience; OR

• An equivalent combination of training and experience as defined above.

Relevant Skills

• Understanding of transportation planning principles and best practices.

• Understanding of sustainable transportation principles and practices. A foundational understanding of technical issues related to alternative fuels and alternative fuel technologies (e.g., idle reduction, energy efficiency, etc.) is a plus.

• Understanding of the connection between land use, transportation, and community design.

• Strong technical, written and presentation skills. A writing sample is required.

• Strong organizational skills.

• Experience with Microsoft Office 365 and experience with Adobe Creative Suite products.

• Experience with ESRI software products including ArcGIS Pro and ArcGIS Online. Familiarity with ArcGIS StoryMaps, ArcGIS Network Analyst, and ArcGIS Spatial Analyst is a plus.

• Experience with public participation and the use of social media.

• Experience with data collection in the field.

• Experience with map design in ArcPro. A map sample may be requested.

• Experience analyzing spatial information and communicating that information.

Responsibilities

• Supporting the implementation of the Clean Cities work plan including promotion of alternative fuel vehicle technologies, fuel-efficiency practices, organizing training and workshops, and assessing the infiltration of alternative fuel vehicles in the regional fleet.

• Supporting the development of major Transportation Council planning products including is Metropolitan Transportation Plan.

• Assisting with public participation activities.

• Drafting technical memos and assisting with the preparation of planning documents including text, tables, and graphs.

• Supporting senior staff in managing consultant led planning activities including developing project scopes of work, reviewing consultant proposals, and reviewing draft products.

• Collecting, researching, managing, and analyzing transportation planning and infrastructure data, including demographic data (ACS, CTPP, & 2020 Census), crash data for safety planning, and data related to performance measures.

• Building, enriching, and maintaining databases and geodatabases.

• Creating maps and reports to support regional and local planning studies.

• Developing web maps and data dashboards

Location: Albany, NY

Position: Full-time (Onsite)

Salary: $60,000 - $70,000

Benefits: Paid Time Off; Vacation, Personal, and Sick Leave; Medical Insurance, Dental Insurance, New York State and Local Retirement System

Application Deadline: June 14, 2024

The Transportation Council is an equal employment opportunity employer. All qualified applicants for employment will be considered without regard to an individual’s race, color, sex, gender identity, gender expression, religion, age, national origin or ancestry, citizenship, physical or mental disability, medical condition, family care status, marital status, domestic partner status, sexual orientation, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other characteristics protected by federal, state or local laws.

Send cover letter, resume, and writing sample by June 14, 2024, to:

Sandra Misiewicz, AICP Executive Director

Capital Regional Transportation Council

1 Park Place, Suite 101, Albany, New York 12205

or email info@capitalmpo.org

If you are unable to submit your application because of incompatible assistive technology or a disability, please contact us and we will reasonably accommodate qualified individuals with disabilities to the extent required by applicable law.

UAlbany GPSA visits Albany Rural Cemetery, sees ARCE app

The UAlbany GPSA hosted a successful tour of the Albany Rural Cemetery on April 24th. The tour showcased the Albany Rural Cemetery Explorer App (ARCE), which combines history and mapping for self-guided tours and will soon be available for free download.

Members of the Bender Foundation joined UAlbany students and faculty. The University’s Geography and Planning department, led by Dr. Rui Li, has generously contributed to the app's development. Friends of the ARC supported us invaluably during the tour.

Job Opening: Development Project Manager for Belmont Housing Resources for WNY

Belmont Housing Resources for WNY is a highly respected nonprofit organization in the Western New York Community. As an advocate and provider of affordable housing opportunities, Belmont serves over 15,000 low-income houses annually through their Section 8 (HUD) programs and other initiatives. The leadership team and staff are dedicated to providing assistance and opportunities for individuals and families to find and maintain safe and affordable homes. Affordable and accessible housing not only helps to strengthen families but builds stronger communities. Belmont is committed to expanding affordable housing opportunities through new construction and the adaptive reuse of existing structures, as well as empowering individuals with the education and counseling they need to find affordable rental opportunities, buy a home, understand financial management, prevent foreclosure, understand reverse mortgages, learn best practices in home maintenance, energy efficiency, and keep their homes healthy and safe.

The Development Project Manager is an essential member of the Belmont Development Team reporting directly to the Vice President of Development, working collaboratively with other Project Managers. This position is responsible for the overall administration and management of individual development and construction projects, ensuring alignment with project objectives, government regulations, and organizational goals in support of delivering new and rehabilitated housing units. The successful candidate will lead with integrity, providing strategic and operational oversight to ensure projects are administered seamlessly and successfully to achieve the goals of our organization, funding agencies and lenders.

Position Overview

The Development Project Manager must be an organized leader that is self-motivated and able to manage multiple tasks concurrently. Ensuring Belmont accomplishes its mission in developing quality affordable housing, this position will need to maintain project schedules, cost track all project expenses, coordinate all professional design and contractor relationships, and work with funding agencies and lenders to satisfy all project financial requirements from initial loan closing through permanent financing. The successful candidate must have a track record of success in leading and managing multi-family development projects ranging between $10M and $50M in size and scope. Key competencies include:

• Ability to manage multiple project assignments concurrently.

• Self-motivated to ensure the timely completion of project tasks.

• Excellent organizational skills to include project scheduling, cost tracking and vendor management.

• Strong ability to communicate and operate as a leader of multiple project design and construction team members.

• Confidence with public speaking in representing the organization at project review meetings.

• Good understanding of construction financing mechanisms and typical underwriting formats.

• Ability to read and review construction drawing documents and critically assess their suitability to accomplish affordable housing program goals and residential unit design requirements.

• Attendance at construction coordination meetings during project construction to represent the Owner’s interest in reviewing work completion and processing payment applications.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

The Development Manager plans, directs and coordinates activities of designated affordable housing programs and projects to ensure that objectives of projects are accomplished within the prescribed time frame and funding parameters by performing the following duties personally or in collaboration with department staff:

• Analyze community data to determine needs and satisfy the requirements of lender and agency financing applications.

• Identify affordable housing financing mechanisms to meet community needs.

• Work with the VP of Development to design programs or identify projects, and to prepare funding applications.

• Review funding proposals or plans to determine time frame, funding limitations, implementation procedures, staffing requirements, and allotment of available resources to various phases of program/project development.

• Establish work plans and staffing for each phase of programs and projects and arrange for the recruitment or assignment of program and project personnel.

• Confer with staff to outline work plans, assign responsibilities and scope of authority.

• Provide technical advice and be available to work with project teams to resolve problems and overcome complications related to project development.

• Direct and coordinate activities of program/project personnel to ensure projects progress on schedule and within prescribed budgets.

• Prepare and review status reports and modify schedules or plans as required.

• Prepare program/project reports for management, client, lenders, funders and others.

• Acts as primary resource for regulation interpretation and compliance.

• Coordinate program/project activities with government regulatory or other funding agencies including any necessary monitoring or compliance reporting.

• Represents the organization at public hearings and other public speaking engagements.

• Prepare financial underwriting summaries and pro formas to demonstrate financially sound project development and operating budgets in accordance with lender and funding agency requirements.

• Coordinate and lead project team meetings with clearly established agendas and critical path/action item tracking.

• Review and respond to Request for Proposal and Request for Qualification opportunities that arise for the organization related to single family and multifamily acquisition, rehabilitation and new construction.

Core Competencies Required

To perform the job successfully, an individual should demonstrate the following competencies:

• Analytical - Collects and researches data; Uses intuition and experience to complement data; Designs work flows and procedures.

• Design - Generates creative solutions; Uses feedback to modify designs; Demonstrates attention to detail.

• Problem Solving - Identifies and resolves problems in a timely manner; Gathers and analyzes information skillfully; Develops alternative solutions; Works well in group problem solving situations; Uses reason even when dealing with emotional topics.

• Project Management - Develops project plans; Coordinates and facilitates projects; Communicates changes and progress; Completes projects on time and budget; is able to develop presentations and represent the organization at meetings.

• Technical Skills - Assesses own strengths and weaknesses; Pursues training and development opportunities; Strives to continuously build knowledge and skills; Shares expertise with others.

• Strong degree of initiative - Motivated, self-starter with ability to manage through multiple priorities.

Minimum Qualifications:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty as noted above satisfactorily. The further requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability associated with the essential duties. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Education and/or Experience

Candidates must demonstrate either of the following:

 Bachelor's degree (B.A./B.S.) from four-year college or university and at least five years related experience, such as securing funding for affordable housing, affordable housing project management, utilization of low income housing tax credits, project management experience with market rate development, etc.

OR

 Master’s Degree (M.A. /M.S.) from college or university and at least two years related experience as indicated directly above.

2393 Main Street Buffalo, NY 14214 716-884-7791 belmonthousingwny.org

• Language Skills

Ability to read, analyze, and interpret common scientific and technical journals, financial reports, and legal documents. Ability to respond to common inquiries or complaints from customers, regulatory agencies, or members of the business community. Ability to write speeches and articles for publication that conform to prescribed style and format. Ability to effectively present information to top management, public groups, and/or boards of directors.

• Mathematical Skills

Ability to calculate figures and amounts such as discounts, interest, commissions, proportions, percentages, area, circumference, and volume. Ability to apply concepts of basic algebra and geometry. Ability to prepare and use complex project budgets.

• Reasoning Ability

Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of complex variables in situations where only limited standardization exists. Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram, or schedule form.

• Computer Skills

To perform this job successfully, an individual should have strong computers skills, and knowledge of Database software; Internet software; Project Management software; Proficiency with Spreadsheet software and Word Processing software is essential.

• Transportation

The job requires regular traveling to construction sites and public/community group meetings throughout the Buffalo/Niagara region. As such, the employee must have access to a reliable automobile. Belmont will reimburse the employee for work related use of their personal vehicle in accordance with federal mileage rates.

• Certificates, Licenses, Registrations

None required. AIA, AICP, or Project Management Certifications preferred.

• Other Skills and Abilities

Thorough knowledge of federal, state, local and private financing programs for affordable housing and applicable regulations is preferred. Strong ability to advance the progress of assigned projects. Proven ability to work effectively with lenders, investors, public officials and low-income populations. Skill in financial analysis, knowledge of construction and writing skills. Capacity to develop a long-range 'vision' for existing and potential projects.

2393 Main Street Buffalo, NY 14214 716-884-7791 belmonthousingwny.org

• Physical Demands

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. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to sit, talk, walk or hear. The employee is regularly required to stand and walk for extended periods and will at times be required to travel by vehicle to offsite construction locations for the purpose of conducting construction coordination meetings. The employee will be required to wear personal protective equipment including a hardhat, eye protection and vest when accessing construction sites. It may be the case that the construction sites have uneven and rough grading conditions that the employee will need to navigate to access onsite construction meetings.

• Work Environment

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The work environment generally consists of a professional office workspace and occasional construction site visits. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate except for those occasions when staff are required to access active construction sites. Additionally, the duties of this job may require the employee to travel to and attend public board meetings (i.e. Town Board, Planning Board, Zoning Board of Appeals, etc.) and community association meetings that are held either after 5:00 pm on regular workdays as well as certain meetings that may be scheduled during weekends.

Benefits Overview

Belmont Housing Resources offers a comprehensive benefits plan designed to meet the needs of all our employees:

• Medical/Dental/Vision Insurance

• 401(k) retirement plan with matching contributions

• Short-term and long-term disability coverage

• Paid FMLA

• Group life insurance

• Accident and Critical Illness insurance

• Flexible Spending and Health Savings accounts

• Paid time off and paid holidays

• Tuition reimbursement

• Flexible work schedules

• Free parking and on-site gym

Position Location: Buffalo, NY (2393 Main Street)

Job Classification: Full Time, Grade 5 ($52,143-$89,162 Annually)

Reports to: Vice President of Development

To Apply

Interested Applicants should submit a cover letter and resume by accessing the job application portal available through the Belmont Housing website at the following link: https://www.belmonthousingwny.org/careers-employment/

The application filing deadline is 11:59 pm on Sunday, June 2nd, 2024.

Belmont Housing Resources for WNY is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and as such affirms the right of every person to participate in all aspects of employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, citizenship, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, veteran status, disability, genetic information, or any other protected characteristic. If you are interested in applying for employment and need special assistance or an accommodation to apply for a posted position, contact our Human Resources department at 716-884-7791. For further information about Equal Opportunity, please click on the links below:

EEO is the Law

Job Opening: Planner for Oneida County Department of Planning

Oneida County Department of Planning anticipates an opportunity for planners with a range of experience to join a dynamic team of 20 Planners and GIS professionals. The individual will contribute and engage in technical research, deliver meaningful public engagement, work on internal and external projects, conduct fieldwork, contribute to the overall advancement of the planning program, and be excited to work in a stimulating and ever-evolving atmosphere. To vibe with the team, you need to be motivated, engaging, technically educated, and a public service-minded professional.

As a diverse Planning Department, we offer the ability for you to work in the core areas of planning while allowing special focus areas to be pursued, a sampling of these specialties:

► host to the Herkimer Oneida Counties Comprehensive Planning Program, rural and community land use planning is highlighted by supporting municipal Planning and Zoning Boards.

► host to the Herkimer Oneida Counties Transportation Council (MPO), your transportation planning career can progress in a multi-modal manner.

► manager of two watershed commissions, water quality planning and a flood mitigation program, your environmental planning career can flow.

► designated Climate Smart Community, we offer opportunities to facilitate sustainability programs, address environmental impacts, and provide guidance to partner agencies for clean energy.

► designated Census Data Affiliate, data analytics is at the heart of planning programs, projects, and studies.

Your abilities should include the ability to:

• analyze, organize, interpret data, draw conclusions from raw data, and summarize the findings;

• communicate effectively, in oral and written formats, to technical and non-technical audiences;

• draft and produce reports, meeting summaries, and project briefings;

• learn about, understand, and synthesize complex topics;

• problem solve and self-motivate to go deeper;

• critically think macro and execute at the micro level;

• multi-task and meet deadlines;

• establish and maintain effective working relationships with partners.

Oneida County is an equal-opportunity employer. Planning Department positions are civil service tested. To better understand the specifications and variety of Planner titles available please visit Oneida County Job Specifications

Please note that there is no residency requirement for the Department of Planning, however remote work is currently not allowed as per County policy. The Oneida County Department of Planning is located at the Boehlert Center at Union Station, 321 Main Street, Utica, NY 13501.

If you read this far and are interested in discussing your next career experience with Oneida County, please email a letter of interest and your resume to Dana Crisino, MBA, AICP, Deputy Commissioner of Planning at dcrisino@ocgov.net by June 1, 2024.

Job Opening: Planning Director for Livingston County

The Planning Director is responsible for the initiation, coordination, direction and review of activities undertaken by the County Planning Department. Duties call for the highest level of professional knowledge and ability. The Planning Director reports to the County Administrator and the Board of Supervisors from whom direction is received. The Planning Director also does related work as required.

The ideal candidate will be a self-starter and a source of ideas with 4-7 years of experience in planning, urban geography, public administration, engineering, or a related field.

The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in managing employees, projects and working within a municipal background. The Planning Director must have experience with grant and contract management, demonstrated experience managing large budgets and strong problem-solving skills.

Certification by the American Planning Association is a plus.

THE DETAILS

Salary Range: $95,000 - $105,000

Comprehensive benefits including health, dental, vision and more

Participation in New York State Retirement System

Broadband Development

The ideal candidate will work with internal and external agencies to ensure that the County’s broadband initiative, Light Up Livingston, is progressing. The Planning

Director works with funding sources to secure and manage grant opportunities.

Agricultural Initiatives and Land Uses

The Planning Director supports the County’s agricultural industry including updating Agriculture Plans, partnering with the Genesee Valley Conservancy and its Purchase of Development Rights Program, Agricultural Districting programs and more.

Transportation

The Planning Director will enhance public transportation and implement the County’s transportation connectivity plan. The selected candidate will work with the Genesee Transportation Council on projects, initiatives and funding opportunities.

Environmental

Sensitivity to lake and watershed planning is a must. Supporting the Conesus Lake Watershed Council and Environmental Management Council is a priority along with updating the Conesus Lake Watershed Management Plan.

Housing and Anti-Poverty

The ideal candidate will support the Livingston County Land Bank and work to advance THRIVE LivINgston - the County’s award-winning anti-poverty initiative designed to combat social, cultural, economic and environmental challenges.

Special Projects

The Planning Director will work with the Board of Supervisors and County

Administrator on a number of projects including strategic planning, GIS, shared services, solar and water initiatives, training programs and other projects as assigned.

The ideal candidate will be a self-starter and a source of ideas with 4-7 years of experience in planning, urban geography, public administration, engineering, or a related field.

The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in managing employees, projects and working within a municipal background. The Planning Director must have experience with grant and contract management, demonstrated experience managing large budgets and strong problem-solving skills.

Certification by the American Planning Association is a plus.

The Details:

Salary Range: $95,000 - $105,000

Comprehensive benefits including health, dental, vision and more

Participation in New York State Retirement System

To Apply:

The recruitment effort is confidential and all contacts, inquiries and communications will be treated as such throughout the process. This position is considered open until a final selection is made.

  • All candidates must meet qualifications outlines within the job description located on the Livingston County Human Resources website

  • Applications must include a cover letter, resume and list of 3 references.

  • All materials should be sent to: humanresources@co.livingston.ny.us

Please click here for full position brochure.

Job Opening: Planner III For The Onondaga County Department of Planning

The Onondaga County Department of Planning in Syracuse, NY is accepting applications for the Planner III position, to work within its County Planning Services division. Onondaga County is currently experiencing exciting and unprecedented investments in jobs, housing and transportation. Combined with the introduction of the growing semiconductor industry at our doorstep, we have the opportunity to truly shape and modernize our region through innovative urban planning.

The County Planning Services Division carries out the primary function of the Department to facilitate and promote sound development practices and policies within Onondaga County government and its municipalities. Plan Onondaga, the County’s comprehensive plan, was recently adopted, and is being aggressively implemented alongside our municipal partners, and across the 5 programmatic areas of the Plan – Strong Centers, Housing + Neighborhoods, Community Mobility, Greenways + Blueways and Agriculture.

The Department is seeking experienced and internally motivated planners at the intermediate, senior and management level to manage planning projects and programs within the agency. A Planner III title typically carries out complex program-level planning projects, and will be required to work closely with consultants, local municipalities, agencies, community stakeholders, and the public. As a project manager, strong leadership and communication skills, ability to manage consultant teams, and willingness to work within a team environment will be required. Direct and relevant experience in one or more of the programmatic areas in the field is a must for a successful candidate.

Salary Range: $81,726 to $90,340

The Planner III position is a civil service position, with a required 35-hour work week in the Department’s Syracuse office. Please refer to the County’s job description for more details at:  https://employment.ongov.net/default/show_jobdesc/25022.

 

Please send letter of interest and resumes to:  countyplanning@ongov.net

Pursuant to the Civil Service Rules for provisional appointments, candidate would be appointed provisionally and would be required to take the next Civil Service exam for this title, pass and be reachable for permanent appointment.  

            "Onondaga County is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer"

Job Opening: Planner II for the Onondaga County Department of Planning

The Onondaga County Department of Planning in Syracuse, NY is accepting applications for the Planner II position, to work within its County Planning Services division. Onondaga County is currently experiencing exciting and unprecedented investments in jobs, housing and transportation. Combined with the introduction of the growing semiconductor industry at our doorstep, we have the opportunity to truly shape and modernize our region through innovative urban planning.

The County Planning Services Division carries out the primary function of the Department to facilitate and promote sound development practices and policies within Onondaga County government and its municipalities. Plan Onondaga, the County’s comprehensive plan, was recently adopted, and is being aggressively implemented alongside our municipal partners, and across the 5 programmatic areas of the Plan – Strong Centers, Housing + Neighborhoods, Community Mobility, Greenways + Blueways and Agriculture.

The Department is seeking experienced and internally motivated planners at the intermediate, senior and management level to manage planning projects and programs within the agency. A Planner II title typically carries out a variety of duties across agency operations, including complex program-based projects alongside senior staff, as well as day-to-day functions of the department, including work serving various committees and Boards, research and data analysis, writing and reporting, and managing independent planning initiatives of the Department.

As a mid-level planner, candidates will be expected to work regularly within a team environment and participate in meetings, and also have the motivation and skills to work independently. Planner IIs will be expected to be able to communicate clearly, both in document form as well as orally, in a variety of settings. Direct and relevant experience in one or more of the programmatic areas in the field is preferred.

Salary Range:  $74,067 to $81,831

The Planner II position is a civil service position, with a required 35-hour work in the Department’s Syracuse office. Please refer to the County’s job description for more details at:  https://employment.ongov.net/default/show_jobdesc/25019. 

Please send letter of interest and resume to:  countyplanning@ongov.net

 

Pursuant to the Civil Service Rules for provisional appointments, candidate would be appointed provisionally and would be required to take the next Civil Service exam for this title, pass and be reachable for permanent appointment.

 

            "Onondaga County is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer"

Job Opening: Planner for Wendel

Wendel is a nationally recognized innovative, full-service design firm that collaborates with private and public entities to holistically approach projects. Our clients benefit from our full-service capability that allows us to tackle technically complex projects from early planning through implementation, with our own in-house experts. With multiple regional offices, Wendel presents the opportunity to work on an exciting variety of projects with a collaborative team approach. If you are looking to make a real impact, to challenge the status quo, and develop and implement solutions with real results, then Wendel is the place for you!

We are seeking a full-time Planner to join our winning team.  As a Planner you will lead and help manage projects within the municipal/land use planning team, perform independent project assignments, attend meetings, and develop various local and regional planning documents. Opportunities abound to work with our many disciplines and diverse business groups within Wendel, creating a work environment that is ever-changing. This is a long-term growth position within the Planning Team and the company.

Qualifications:

  • Must have a Planning degree, with strong consideration to candidates with a Master’s Degree in Urban Planning.   

  • 7 to 10  years of experience in Land Use Planning, SEQR, and general municipal planning consultation.

  • AICP Certification   

  • The ideal candidate will have the ability to work independently, create strong relationships and have excellent communication and writing skills.  

  • Experience in green energy permitting, sustainability planning, urban design, and NEPA is a plus.  

  • Other experiences and expertise to help grow our planning services will be strongly considered.  

  • Must be willing to attend night meetings, and travel regionally.

What we offer:

  • Amazing company culture and work environment.

  • Great benefits including Medical, Dental, Vision, 401k match, & generous PTO with 9 paid holidays.

  • HSA and FSA options.

  • Career advancement opportunities with Career Development Plans.

  • A true Work-Life balance with flexible hours and work from home opportunities. 

  • Competitive salary.

  • Tuition reimbursement.

  • Wellness Programs.

Salary Range: $75,000 - $100,000

Planner- Regular Full-Time

Locations:

Buffalo, NY, US

Williamsville, NY, US

Wendel is committed to providing fair, competitive, and market-informed compensation. Salary offered will be determined based the successful candidates’ relevant education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities. The salary offered will also take into consideration regional adjustment factors.

Don’t meet every single requirement? We are dedicated to building a diverse, inclusive, authentic workplace, so if you’re excited about this role but your past experience doesn’t align perfect with every qualification in the job description, we encourage you to apply anyway. You may be just the right candidate for this or other roles.

Wendel is an Affirmative Action, Equal Opportunity Employer and provides a drug free workplace.  All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, age, pregnancy, national origin, protected veteran status or disability status. We are a VEVRAA federal contractor and request priority referrals of all protected veterans.

Please click HERE to apply

Job Posting: Planner for The Cayuga County Department of Planning and Economic Development

The Cayuga County Department of Planning and Economic Development is excited to post an opportunity to join an excellent planning team with an anticipated opening for a Planner. We are a multi-disciplined, progressive Planning & Economic Development Office with a staff of eight, including professional planners, a GIS Analyst, support staff and a Director committed to providing assistance to the 23 Towns and 9 Villages within the County, improving the quality of life in our communities and protecting our natural resources.

The ideal candidate should have excellent organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple ongoing projects. This Planner position will focus on land use and community development services to Towns and Villages and work closely with staff engaged in a range of initiatives.

The Planning Department’s broad scope of work provides room for career growth in municipal and land use planning, environmental resource protection, renewable energy development and park and recreation planning. The Planner will have an opportunity to work on town and village comprehensive plans, zoning ordinances and open space plans, contribute to recreation and farmland protection plans, prepare state and federal grant applications and manage capital projects secured by the department. AICP-certified planners are encouraged to apply.

The department provides an open and collaborative work environment with a flexible hybrid remote-work policy in place. This is an excellent opportunity to join a team of committed professionals engaged in a broad range of County-wide planning & economic development activities.

Minimum Qualifications: Either

• Graduation from a regionally accredited or NYS registered college with a Master’s Degree in Planning, Landscape Architecture or Environmental Resource Planning; OR

• Graduation from a regionally accredited or NYS registered college with a Bachelor’s Degree in Planning, Landscape Architecture, or Environmental Resource Planning; PLUS a minimum of 1 year of experience in community planning, regional planning or work related to the qualifying degree; OR

• An equivalent combination of training and experience as defined by the limits of (A) and (B) above.

Special Provisions: This will be a provisional appointment, meaning the candidate will be required to take an open-competitive civil service exam for the position at some time in the future. Permanent appointment will be dependent upon the candidate’s exam score.

Salary Range: $61,461.00 - $68,794.00. This is a full-time (37.5 hours per week) planning position with a starting salary of $61,461.00 with excellent benefits. The top of the salary range for Planner is currently $68,794.00. The department and county provide and support career advancement opportunities and growth.

Application:

To APPLY, go to www.mycivilservice.cayugacounty.us/jobopps and click on the APPLY button across from the title of “PLANNER – Provisional Vacancy” under Current Vacancies. Interested candidates who apply should also send a resume, cover letter and references to the Cayuga County Planning Department, Cayuga County Office Building, 5th Fl., 160 Genesee Street, Auburn, NY 13021 or as PDFs to planning@cayugacounty.us. For more information on the Department of Planning and Economic Development and on the excellent quality of life in Cayuga County, please visit the department website Planning & Economic Development | Cayuga County, NY and the County tourism website www.tourcayuga.com.

Cayuga County is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer.

Job Opening: Senior Planner for the LaBella Associates Planning Group

Description

LaBella Associates Planning Group seeks Senior Planners to join our Rochester, Glens Falls, Albany and Syracuse offices. The Planning Group at LaBella Associates provides tailored services in redevelopment strategies community & neighborhood planning, zoning, active transportation, market analysis, sustainability & resilience planning, grant services, and community engagement to a variety of municipal and private clients in addition to serving internal LaBella divisions.

Under the general supervision of the Director of Planning the ideal candidate will have broad range of experience in planning with an appreciation and understanding of strategic redevelopment planning (downtowns, brownfields), land use planning (comprehensive planning and zoning), placemaking, and public outreach. Excellent writing, communication and interpersonal skills are essential for the position.

Duties

The ideal candidate will be self-motivated with an eagerness to learn any of these duties. Some of the duties the candidate may be involved in include:

  • Preparing reports and analyses including land use plans, strategic downtown/economic development plans, and area/neighborhood plans.

  • Leading and participating in public meetings and community engagement.

  • Preparing zoning updates and other development regulations

  • Applying for and administering grants

  • Managing projects including scheduling, budgets, and client communications.

  • Developing and nurturing client relationships including preparation of proposals.

Requirements

  • Broad understanding of the principles and practices of planning, public outreach, and revitalization.

  • Familiarity with grants and funding

  • Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills

  • GIS Mapping

  • Presentation/speaking skills

  • Graphic skills

  • Self-motivated with an eagerness to learn

  • Outgoing personality

Salary Range: $80,000 - $95,000 per year

The specific salary offered may be influenced by a variety of factors including but not limited to the candidate's relevant experience, education, and work location.

Benefits

Body, mind, and wallet—LaBella’s benefits support a holistic approach to your health and wellness, creating the foundation for physical, mental, and financial well-being. Our benefit offerings cover the must-haves (healthcare and retirement), the just-in-cases (insurances and employee assistance programs), and the cherry-on-tops (fitness reimbursements, year-end incentive pay, and tuition assistance). Visit our website for more details on benefits listed below.

  • Flexible Work Schedule

  • Health/Dental Insurance

  • 401k Plan with Employer Match

  • Short & Long Term Disability

  • Profit Sharing

  • Paid Time Off

  • Leadership Development Program

  • Fitness Reimbursement

  • Tuition Reimbursement

  • Referral Bonus Program

  • Wellness Program

  • Team Building Events

  • Community Service Events

Click here to apply

RFP: Downtown Revitalization Initiative Grant Application Consultant for the City of Ithaca

The City of Ithaca requests proposals for professional services to support the development of the City’s 2024 Downtown Revitalization Initiative grant application.

Proposals from interested firms are due by May 20, 2024. Your proposal will be reviewed, and you may be asked to interview with a committee of staff before a final selection is made. It is expected that a consulting firm will be selected, and a Professional Service Agreement awarded, in early June 2024.

Contact: Email questions to Tom Knipe, Deputy Director for Economic Development, tknipe@cityofithaca.org

Background/ Project Objectives:

The City and Downtown Ithaca Alliance (DIA) have applied unsuccessfully six times over the past eight years to New York State to receive a competitive $10 million Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI) grant. The DRI continues to be a key element of the State’s economic development program. Its goals are to transform downtown neighborhoods into vibrant centers that offer a high quality of life and are magnets for redevelopment, business, job creation, and economic and housing diversity. More information about the goals of the DRI program and past awardees can be found on New York State’s website:

https://www.ny.gov/programs/downtown-revitalization-initiative

In 2023, the City of Ithaca decided not to apply because of the changes in City and DIA leadership, and the ongoing work on both the Downtown Plan and Retail Study/Strategy Plan. Both of those will be completed this year, new leadership is in place, and we have gathered extensive feedback from Empire State Development, Southern Tier Regional Economic Development Council members, and others involved with successful DRI grant applications in Upstate NY communities. Based on the information gathered, we believe that the City of Ithaca is in a strong position to apply for and receive a DRI grant in 2024. Preliminary discussions suggest there is support for focusing our 2024 DRI application on the West State Street Corridor and West End. These areas, with the downtown core, were the subject of our most recent DRI application in 2022, which by many accounts was our strongest application to date. These areas are also the focus of the City and DIA’s Downtown Plan, which is expected to be finalized and adopted soon. These are also areas of the city where we can demonstrate a clear need for revitalization and transformative impact of a DRI award. We are requesting proposals from consultants to support the City of Ithaca with our 2024 DRI application. The consultant scope of work assumes that the City and DIA will work to convene a DRI steering committee and will do some preliminary work to compile projects and a draft narrative, and that the consultant will coordinate public outreach, help articulate DRI projects that align with a compelling DRI vision and lead the development of the full DRI application. A more detailed proposed scope-of-work is outlined below.

Scope of Work

1. Conduct public outreach, to possibly include:

o Support DRI steering committee meetings in coordination with City and DIA staff

o Distribute call for project ideas

o Community survey – draft, distribute, compile and analyze results

o Targeted outreach to underrepresented communities – 2 focus groups or similar method

o Conduct public meetings – one or two, including designing informational materials for meetings

o Public walking tour - can be on the same day as public meeting (optional)

o Establish basic DRI website (optional)

2. Articulate DRI projects:

o Assistance in developing or choosing the key projects, including a methodology for doing so, to be included in the DRI application

o Interviews with 6-10 potential DRI project partners

o Produce renderings for up to 3 projects for which renderings are not otherwise available (we will not need new renderings for all proposed projects)

3. Develop full DRI application document and presentation materials:

o Document compilation/development

o Draft narrative

o Coordinate edits

o Graphic design – document layout, design

o A presentation template matching the design of the application document for presentation to the Southern Tier Regional Economic Development Council.

Schedule:

RFP Responses Due: Monday, May 20th, 2024, by 3:30pm

Selection process: May 20, 2024 – May 30, 2024

Award Contract: Early June 2024

Public Outreach: June, July 2024

Articulate DRI Projects: August, 2024

Application: August, 2024 (based on the previous years’ deadlines, we anticipate an application deadline in September, 2024. If the deadline occurs earlier, the schedule will need to be adjusted accordingly to meet ESD’s application deadline.

Submission Requirements

1. Lead Consultant Information

a. Firm name

b. Mailing address

c. Telephone

d. Website (if applicable)

e. Contact name, email, phone number

f. Form of Organization (partnership, corporation, sole proprietorship, etc.)

g. Where Organized

h. Names of principals, officers, and directors

2. Additional Consultants (if applicable). For each member of the consultant team, provide the

following:

a. Firm name

b. Mailing address

c. Telephone

d. Website (if applicable)

3. Key Personnel. For key personnel to be involved in the project, please provide names, titles,

period of service with the firm, and a resume or description of experience. Please limit

responses to no more than one page per person.

4. Detailed Project Proposal. Description of how the project team will approach each of the

major tasks described above. Include a description of how the team will be organized, who

will perform each of the tasks, amount of time the team expects to expend on each task

and what the finished product will be.

5. Budget and Timeline. Please provide a detailed timeline for all phases and tasks and a proposed budget for each.

6. Statement of Availability. Provide a brief statement on the availability of key personnel to undertake the proposed project, within the required schedule.

7. List of Relevant Projects. Provide a brief description of no more than eight projects equivalent in size or nature to the proposed project that have been successfully completed within the last seven years by the consulting firm, consulting team or key personnel. Please include the project budget.

8. Three References. Provide names, telephone numbers, and emails of persons to be contacted for references regarding past performance of the consulting firm, consulting team, or key personnel on similar projects.

Evaluation Criteria

Proposals will be evaluated based on the following criteria:

1. Experience and expertise in developing competitive planning and economic development related grant applications (30%)

2. Proven track record of securing DRI funding for other communities in Upstate NY (20%)

3. Experience in designing and implementing effective public engagement processes (20%)

4. Experience completing projects on tight deadlines, within budget, and in a professional and thorough manner (20%)

5. Clarity of proposal (10%)

Project Budget

A contract for the proposed scope of work will not exceed $40,000.

Attachments

 Downtown Plan - https://www.cityofithaca.org/771/Downtown-Plan (recommendations and link to survey)

 Downtown Plan - https://www.cityofithaca.org/DocumentCenter/View/16794/DRAFT- 2024-Ithaca-Downtown-Plan (full draft)

 2022 City of Ithaca DRI application – available upon request

Submission Schedule

Please submit one electronic copy of your response to this Request for Proposals no later than 3:30 PM Monday May 20, 2024. Email electronic copy to Tom Knipe, Deputy Director for Economic Development, tknipe@cityofithaca.org

Job Opening: Planner with Delaware Engineering . D.P.C.

Delaware Engineering, D.P.C. seeks an individual to serve as a Planner in our Albany, New York Office. Duties will include, but are not limited to: providing support to municipal planning and zoning boards; working with geographic information systems (GIS); supporting funding and grant applications; and preparing technical information to support infrastructure feasibility studies, comprehensive plans, and zoning codes. 

Position Profile

  • Support municipal elected officials, planning and zoning boards, and economic development agencies

    • Support State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQRA) proceedings

    • Review site plans, special use permits, subdivisions and zoning variances

    • Understand and apply federal, state and local laws, zoning codes, and regulations

    • Prepare review memoranda and draft resolutions

    • Attend municipal meetings typically held on weekday evenings

    • Coordinate with applicants, applicant engineers/attorneys, regulatory personnel and municipal representatives

    • Prepare economic development studies, comprehensive plans and zoning codes including conducting public engagement excercises

  • Support in-house engineers and environmental scientists

    • Utilize ArcGIS software to conduct environmental analysis

    • Conduct technical research, draft text components in support of project and program planning, engineering reports, and grant applications.

Qualifications:

  • Masters-level education in regional planning or related field required

  • 3 - 5 years of experience as a professional planner or environmental analyst in New York State preferred

  • Demonstrated excellent written and verbal communication skills required

  • Expertise in MS Word, Excel, and PowerPoint with knowledge of ArcGIS software a plus

  • Ability to attend weekday evening meetings within a two-hour one-way drive of Albany.

Location: Delaware Engineering, D.P.C. Albany, NY Office

Full-Time in person, Monday - Friday

Pay: $70,000 - $90,000/yr commensurate with experience

Benefits: 401(k), 401(k) matching, Dental insurance, Health insurance, Paid time off, Vision insurance

About Delaware Engineering, D.P.C.

 

For over 35 years, Delaware Engineering, D.P.C. has been providing comprehensive civil and environmental engineering services for municipalities in the Capital District, Mohawk and Hudson River Valleys as well as the Southern Tier and North Country of New York State.  Our practice is full service including planning, permitting, design, and construction management as well as facility start-up.  Municipal work primarily involves public infrastructure including water, sewer, drainage, parks and public buildings, and related facilities.  Our engineers and technical staff also provide services to private industry. 

 

Our staff is comprised of approximately 70 professional and technical personnel with offices in Albany (Albany County), Oneonta (Otsego County), Red Hook (Dutchess County), Goshen (Orange County), Monticello (Sullivan County) and Port Chester (Westchester County).  We are deeply engaged with our communities, providing volunteers and funding to local non-profits as it aligns to our practice, in the design and construction of Make-A-Wish tree houses and backyard pools. Delaware Engineering also supports our Veterans through charitable events benefitting the American Legion Riders.

 

Our planners support planning and zoning boards, including application review and conduct of environmental review.  We prepare comprehensive plans and zoning updates including public engagement. In addition to traditional land use planning, Delaware Engineering’s planning group regularly supports economic development efforts, prepares environmental analysis, conducts user rate impact analysis, and assists in special district formation as well as consolidation processes.  We support municipalities in developing strategic approaches to funding public infrastructure, including the preparation of applications for low-cost financing and grants.

Submit a cover letter and resume to info@delawareengineering.com


 

Job Opening: Senior Planner with CC Environment & Planning

CC Environment & Planning is seeking an experienced, creative, independent, and energetic planner to join our team and guide our ongoing and upcoming landscape, municipal, and natural resource planning projects! This is a full-time position with a complete benefits package, flexible work schedule, and remote and in-office options. The successful candidate will join a highly supportive team in a growing company that values diverse perspectives, facilitates professional growth, and encourages autonomy.

Primary Role/ Responsibilities: Oversee and continue to develop an engaging, effective, and creative land use and municipal planning program across New York State with a focus on climate resiliency and smart growth. This will involve implementing planning projects from start to finish, developing proposals and contracts, producing professional articles and presentations, project management, coordinating team involvement, developing, and maintaining budgets for the planning program, advertising, hiring, and supervision of planning staff. Salary commensurate with experience.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Degree in Landscape Architecture, Community or Environmental Planning, or a related field.

• Bachelor’s degree plus five years relevant experience.

• Graduate degree plus 3 years relevant experience.

• AICP certification or can qualify within 12 months.

• Exceptional communication (written/verbal), presentation, and interpersonal skills.

• Ability to lead and manage multiple projects.

• Demonstrated expertise in land use and municipal planning, plan writing, municipal regulations, and processes.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Proficiency with ArcGIS, Microsoft Office, Zoom, In-Design, Adobe, or similar software, etc.

• Grant writing portfolio

TO APPLY:

Email a resume and cover letter to Sheila Hess - shess@ccenvironment.com

Applications will be accepted and reviewed until a qualified candidate has been selected.

Our mission is to serve our partners, customers, and communities by balancing economic vitality, community development, and natural resource conservation.

Our services include natural resource inventories, ecological assessments, green infrastructure, municipal, and land use planning, climate resiliency projects, education/interpretation, graphic design.

CC ENVIRONMENT & PLANNING

23 Jackson Street Batavia, NY 14020

www.ccenvironment.com

Job Opening: Planner for Otsego County Planning Department

OTSEGO COUNTY ANNOUNCES THE FOLLOWING VACANCY:

Planning Department-Planner

$54,504 - $64,639

DATED: April 23, 2024

LAST DAY FOR FILING: May 7, 2024 EOE

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS: This position performs office and field assignments in connection with County’s Planning and Solid Waste departments. Duties include, but are not limited to county transportation, hazardous mitigation, agriculture/farmland preservation, GIS, census data, 911 addressing, recycling, solid waste management, and miscellaneous topics of local land use law and process. Related duties as required.

TYPICAL WORK ACTIVITIES:

 Assists municipal boards, the general public and others to apply planning and land use principals and applications;

 Assists with the County’s solid waste and recycling program;

 Assists with the County’s 911 addressing program;

 Prepares maps for in-house agencies and local planning boards when requested;

 Assists in collection, tabulation and analysis of data as it relates to County Planning and Solid Waste;

 Prepares reports necessary for the administration of the county transportation, solid waste and recycling program;

 Performs miscellaneous office work and maintains records of planning, solid waste and recycling unit activities;

 Develops comprehensive land use plans by researching and analyzing data such as land use regulations, design controls, historic preservation, environmental laws and any other pertinent information in the development and review of land use plans;

 Assists with answering questions and providing resources to local municipalities;

 Assists with local land use reviews under General Municipal Law 239;

 Acts as a lead on planning projects by coordinating and directing activities such as data collection and analysis, and project implementation;

 Prepares and provides oversight of the preparation of a variety of planning statistics, graphs, plans, designs, charts, records and reports;

 Plans and conducts field studies and surveys to collect demographic and other related planning data;

 Collects, tabulates, and analyzes data for use in connection with census statistics and population reports;

 Collects information and prepares documents for planning boards, site plan reviews, and community and economic development activities;

 Coordinates grant and county-funded activities with other departments and agencies by participating in meetings with department heads to discuss and evaluate the needs of their department;

 Participates in studies involving research, investigation, and analysis of sociological, economic, and environmental factors related to planning;

 Develops plans for large scale proposals involving landscape and architectural design aspects for a county;

 May attend and participate in informational meetings and conferences with municipal officials providing technical assistance and guidance with respect to planning projects and design;

 Related duties as required.

FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES: Knowledge of the principles of land use planning; comprehensive plans and land use regulations; City, County, State and Federal laws, codes and regulations pertaining to community planning; Knowledge of the sociological, economic, environmental, engineering, designs and research factors in problems involved in community planning; Knowledge of computer hardware and software programs which may include Microsoft Office, Excel, Internet applications and GIS; Knowledge of relevant specialization such as transportation, land use, affordable housing, hazardous mitigation or Geo Informational Systems (GIS), solid waste, recycling; Strong oral communication and interpersonal skills; the ability to work on several projects or issues simultaneously; Creative problem solving skills to gather relevant information to solve problems; the ability to understand complex oral and written directions; the ability to work well and communicate effectively with others; the ability to have tact and good judgment in decision making.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: Either:

(a) Graduation from a recognized college or university with a Bachelor’s Degree or higher in Planning, Geography, Environmental Science, Geology, Public Administration or related field and one (1) year of experience or its part-time equivalent in municipal, community or regional planning; OR

(b) Graduation from a recognized college or university with a Bachelor’s Degree AND two (2) years of experience or its part-time equivalent in municipal, community or regional planning; OR

(c) An equivalent combination of training and experience.

CLASSIFICATION: Competitive

Applications are available at the Otsego County Personnel/Civil Service Department, 183 Main Street, Cooperstown, NY 13326 or online at www.otsegocounty.com.

Job Opening: Planning Director for Onondaga County

The Onondaga County Executive is accepting applications for a Planning Director to oversee a dedicated staff of planners and GIS Specialists in the Department of Planning to support implementation of Plan Onondaga, the countywide comprehensive plan (http://plan.ongov.net). Plan Onondaga (Plan ON) was unanimously adopted in July 2023 and has over $30M in financial support for implementation. Plan ON forms the foundation of our projects and programs. Everything we do is grounded in furthering the plan. The planning department also administers agricultural plans and programs in support of the recently adopted Agriculture and Farmland Protection Plan.

What We Do

Projects the department is currently working on:

·         The first comprehensive Housing Study in Onondaga County

·         10+ grants to local municipalities for comprehensive plan and zoning projects

·         1 Local Waterfront Revitalization Plans

·         2 Urban Master Plan projects

·         A comprehensive Blueway Program Strategy

·         A comprehensive Greenway Program Strategy

·         Multiple trail feasibility studies

·         A countywide Safe Streets For All Action Plan

·         Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan Update

·         Multiple agriculture programs including conservation easements, local land use planning, and locally grown and food system projects.

The department is also responsible for building and maintaining the county’s Geographic Information System (GIS), which is an essential tool that helps maximize effectiveness and efficiency and improve decision making throughout county and local government.  GIS staff create, acquire, and maintain a wide array of spatial datasets, provide direct spatial analysis and mapping assistance, integrate spatial data into critical applications, maintain a publicly available GIS website, administer the county’s aerial photography program, and provide addressing services to support the county’s 911 system.  The GIS supports department initiatives, county departments, municipalities and government entities, and the public.

Who We Need

Our growing and demanding workload increasingly relies on consulting contracts and grants to local government. A critical aspect of being the Director is to work closely with all 35 municipalities and most county department heads to maintain a strong working relationship, steer initiative in a productive direction, deliver resources to help them attain their goals and be the day to day go to person for everything related to planning. This role leads the effort at county level systematic planning, especially with regard to transportation, greenways and blueways and housing. The Department’s intermunicipal view allows the ability to see how these municipalities can move forward and develop planning and other projects in line with multiple interests. The Director’s job is to be able to lead the entire county forward in these efforts.

We need a proactive, internally motivated planner to lead the department and the County toward a unified vision. Someone who goes beyond the management of staff and projects to take on the responsibility of seeing the next step and beyond, and laying the groundwork to bring everyone with them. Ideally the Director thinks and operates outside the department and above, between and within the municipalities, agencies and departments to see how it all needs to come together. A Director is both dynamic in ideas and project generation, and linear in getting the job done. 

All of our planning positions require passion, leadership, inspiration, creativity and knowledge in order to fulfill our challenging mission. This requirement has a high potential for rewarding outcomes at the highest levels. Onondaga County is currently experiencing investment in jobs, housing and transportation. Combined with the introduction of a completely new technology and manufacturing activity around semiconductor microchips, we have the opportunity to truly shape and improve upon how a region can modernize and better function on multiple levels now and in the future.

With adoption of our award winning Plan Onondaga, robust implementation resources, and unprecedented and wide ranging support, now is the perfect time for the right person to take planning in Central New York to the highest levels of success. In addition to financial support, the county is hiring multiple high level planners within the department. This will give the Director a diverse and robust staff to carry out initiatives.

Salary Range: $105,022 - $139,224

If you believe you are the right person, please submit a cover letter and resume to the following:

Onondaga County Commissioner of Personnel at peweb1@ongov.net

or

Onondaga County Personnel | 421 Montgomery St., 11th Floor | Syracuse, NY  13202 

Onondaga County residency is required within 90 days of appointment.

Please refer to the County Personnel job specification for additional detail (https://employment.ongov.net/default/show_jobdesc/25031).

"Onondaga County is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer"

Registration is now open for Parks & Trails New York’s inaugural Greenways Advocacy Summit

Join us for a pivotal moment in the future of New York’s greenways! Registration is now open for Parks & Trails New York’s inaugural Greenways Advocacy Summit, to take place on Monday, May 20 at the Egg Performing Arts Center in Albany. This event will be the premier gathering of statewide advocates dedicated to expanding New York’s network of multi-use trails.

The morning program will feature a lineup of a dozen trail experts, showcasing innovative initiatives and leading policy advancements in greenway development. In the afternoon, we'll engage in legislative meetings in the Capitol to secure support for the Greenway Trails for a Green Future bill package as well as funding in next year’s state budget for trail development.

Space is limited, so register today to secure your spot! Don’t miss out on the opportunity to help our greenways have a powerful voice in Albany.

For more details and to register, visit our website. For questions, email me at dcarey@ptny.org.

Your participation is crucial to the future of New York’s greenway network. Join us to be a key player in this vital movement!

Job Opening: Senior Planner for NYS Tug Hill Commission

The NYS Tug Hill Commission is hiring a Senior Planner to assist local governments in the rural Tug Hill region in land use planning, local law development and revision, and general technical support to planning boards and other municipal boards. The Tug Hill Commission is a unique state agency that recently celebrated 50 years of “helping local governments and citizens shape the future of the Tug Hill region.” Work at the Tug Hill Commission allows staff to be involved with a variety of municipalities and organizations, often implementing innovative ideas. There are also opportunities to be involved in regional and state level policy issues and be a voice for rural communities in New York State. For more information see www.tughill.org.

Title: Senior Planner

Location: Watertown, NY

Anticipated Start Date: ASAP

Application Deadline: Reviewed as received, but no later than Thursday, May 23

TYPICAL WORK ACTIVITIES:

•The preparation of town and village comprehensive plans;

•The preparation of zoning laws, subdivision regulations, and other local land use controls;

•The creation of maps and other GIS products in support of planning projects;

•The organization and/or delivery of training workshops for municipal land use officials;

•Other related tasks as required.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, and PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS:

•Good knowledge of the principles and procedures of planning and related research;

•Ability to exercise sound professional judgment;

•Ability to undertake complex planning and related research work at a high professional level;

•Ability to work on interdisciplinary projects related to community development and natural resources;

•Ability to present oneself well and communicate effectively both orally and in writing;

•Ability to get along well with others, especially local officials;

•Ability to attend evening meetings throughout the Tug Hill region;

•Proficiency with word processing, spreadsheet, database, and presentation software (Microsoft andAdobe products);

•Familiarity with Geographic Information System (GIS) software (particularly QGIS);

•Familiarity with governmental procedures, New York State planning and zoning law, and the State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQRA).

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

•Minimum of four years' experience as a planner, with demonstrated increased levels of responsibility,and a degree from a regionally accredited college in Architecture, City or Regional Planning,Geography, Political Science, Environmental Studies, or Landscape Architecture. Master’s degreepreferred; Bachelor’s degree required.

•NYS Driver’s License.

SALARY:

The position of Senior Planner is a Management Confidential (M/C) NYS Grade Equivalent 18 with a hiring rate of $65,164 and job rate of $80,860. The position also includes M/C benefits of health insurance and NYS retirement, as well as other benefits. For more information regarding M/C positions and benefits, see: https://goer.ny.gov/management-confidential-mc.

CONTACT:

Submit letter of interest and resume to Matt Johnson, Planning Director, Tug Hill Commission, 317 Washington Street, Watertown, NY 13601, matt@tughill.org ASAP.