About the position
The Denver Regional Council of Governments (DRCOG) is seeking to fill three planner positions: Assistant Planner, Planner, and Senior Planner. These roles are integral to updating and adapting Metro Vision, DRCOG's long-range plan for the growth and development of the Denver region. Since the adoption of the first Metro Vision plan in 1997, DRCOG has been at the forefront of regional planning, connecting growth, transportation, and sustainability, with a new focus on housing following the completion of a Regional Housing Needs Assessment. The organization collaborates with local governments and planning partners to achieve Metro Vision outcomes through various initiatives and strategies. The Assistant Planner will primarily assist with routine research, project support, and public engagement activities. Responsibilities include conducting research, preparing draft documents, and coordinating project communications. The Planner will provide professional-level planning services, lead specific tasks, and facilitate meetings while managing program activities. The Senior Planner will take on a leadership role, providing expert guidance on complex planning activities, mentoring staff, and representing DRCOG on various committees. Candidates should have a passion for working with local governments and a desire to improve the quality of life in the Denver region. DRCOG values long-standing partnerships and aims to collectively find innovative solutions to significant regional issues such as growth, transportation, and the needs of older adults. The organization offers competitive compensation, generous benefits, and an adaptable work environment, making it an attractive place for professionals in the planning field.
Responsibilities
- Conducts research on routine to complex projects, gathering information and identifying issues impacting assigned projects.
- Assists with the successful completion of projects assigned to the team; coordinates and communicates with project team members.
- Plans and coordinates public engagement and training events; assists with management and facilitation of meetings.
- Responds to information requests; performs research and gathers requested information; prepares correspondence and presents findings.
- Updates and maintains files, records, data, and content for website and social media posts.
- Participates in efforts to update and adapt Metro Vision, DRCOG's long-range plan for growth and development of the Denver Region.
- Contributes to efforts that help local governments and other partners implement Metro Vision.
- Evaluates plans and projects from other agencies to obtain data and information on regional and local planning priorities.
- Tracks activities and required reporting to funding agencies and key stakeholders.
- Develops and organizes trainings, workshops, and other convenings to support a healthy community of planning practice.
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in urban and regional planning, geography, public administration or directly related field for Assistant Planner; no specific experience required.
- Bachelor's degree in urban and regional planning, geography, public administration or directly related field and two to four years of related professional planning experience for Planner.
- Bachelor's degree in urban and regional planning, geography, public administration or directly related field and four to six years of related professional planning experience for Senior Planner; a Master's degree is preferred.
- Knowledge of principles and practices of urban and regional planning, program administration, and management.
- Effective communication techniques, including writing and public presentations oriented to a variety of audiences.
- Basic principles and methods of qualitative and quantitative research.
- Proficiency with digital accessibility and relevant software applications, including Microsoft Office and GIS.
Nice-to-haves
- American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) certification preferred for Planner and Senior Planner positions.
- Experience in transit-oriented development, housing, health and the built environment, or age-friendly community concepts.
Benefits
- Competitive compensation
- Generous benefits
- Adaptable work environment
- Support for obtaining AICP certification
