ABOUT THE OPPORTUNITY:
The Town of Londonderry, NH, is seeking a Town Planner. This position reports directly to the Director of Planning and Economic Development. The Town Planner serves as the Town’s primary professional planning staff member and is responsible for the day-to-day administration of planning, zoning, development review, and land use management activities.
The Town Planner serves as the primary staff liaison to the Planning Board and Zoning Board of Adjustment and provides technical review of development applications, professional planning recommendations, zoning interpretations, regulatory guidance, and administrative support necessary for the effective operation of the Town’s land use boards.
This position offers an excellent opportunity for an experienced planning professional to play a key role in guiding growth, development, and long-range planning initiatives within one of New Hampshire’s fastest-growing communities.
WORK SCHEDULE AND FLSA STATUS:
• Assigned to a 40-hour workweek.
• This is an exempt position and is not eligible for overtime compensation under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA).
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
(The following is illustrative of the duties and responsibilities associated with the position and is not intended to be all-inclusive.)
• Serves as primary staff liaison to the Planning Board and other assigned boards.
• Coordinates and conducts technical review of subdivision, site plan, lot line adjustment, conditional use permit, waiver, and other land use applications.
• Reviews and analyzes development proposals, engineering plans, drainage reports, traffic studies, environmental assessments, utility plans, and related technical documents.
• Prepares and presents staff reports, findings of fact, recommendations, and technical analyses.
• Administers and interprets the Town’s Zoning Ordinance, Site Plan Regulations, Subdivision Regulations, and related land use regulations.
• Coordinates technical review activities with Town departments, consultants, legal counsel, and regulatory agencies.
• Facilitates Planning Board and Zoning Board meetings, hearings, workshops, and site walks.
• Monitors statutory review timelines, legal notices, consultant reviews, escrow accounts, and conditions of approval.
• Coordinates project tracking and serves as primary point of contact for applicants and consultants.
• Participates in pre-application and development review meetings.
• Assists with Master Plan implementation and updates, zoning amendments, CIP planning, grant applications, and other planning initiatives.
• Assists with planning studies, research projects, regulatory amendments, and long-range planning activities.
• Responds to inquiries regarding planning, zoning, development review, and land use regulations.
• Oversees and coordinates activities related to land use board operations and application processing.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.
MINIMUM EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:
• Bachelor’s degree in urban or regional planning, public administration, geography, environmental science/policy, civil engineering, landscape architecture, community and environmental planning, or related field required.
• Minimum three (3) years of progressively responsible planning experience required.
• Equivalent combination of education and experience will be considered.
CERTIFICATION/LICENSE REQUIREMENTS:
• Valid driver’s license or other reliable means of transportation required.
• AICP certification preferred.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES AND OTHER REQUIREMENTS:
• Thorough knowledge of municipal planning, zoning administration, subdivision and site plan review, growth management, housing, transportation, environmental planning, and community development.
• Thorough knowledge of New Hampshire land use statutes (RSA 672-677) and municipal land use regulations.
• Knowledge of federal, state, and local laws related to planning, zoning, development review, and environmental protection.
• Working knowledge of civil engineering principles, stormwater management, drainage, utilities, traffic operations, and public infrastructure.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering plans, site plans, traffic studies, drainage reports, environmental assessments, and legal documents.
• Ability to research, interpret, and apply municipal ordinances, state statutes, and planning policies.
• Ability to prepare clear, concise, and technically accurate reports, recommendations, findings of fact, and presentations.
• Ability to effectively present technical information before boards, elected officials, applicants, consultants, and the public.
• Strong project management, organizational, and time management skills.
• Experience with Microsoft Office required; experience with permitting software, GIS applications, and electronic plan review platforms preferred.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills and a strong customer service orientation.
OCCUPATIONAL EXPOSURES:
May be exposed to cleaning fluids, photocopier toner, printer cartridges, dirt, dust, and other materials associated with office and field inspection environments.
SELECTION PROCESS/APPOINTMENT:
May be required to participate in oral interviews, professional background investigation, criminal history check, and driving record check.
Town Manager appoints based upon the recommendation of the Director of Planning and Economic Development.