Shared Town Planner (Blackstone and Dudley)

Job Description

The Towns of Blackstone and Dudley are seeking applicants for the position of Shared Town Planner. This full-time position offers a salary of up to $90,000, commensurate with qualifications and experience, and an excellent benefit package.

DEFINITION

The Shared Town Planner oversees planning, zoning, land use, and economic development activities for both Blackstone and Dudley. The Planner provides direct support to the Planning Boards, coordinates with the Zoning Boards of Appeals and Economic Development Committees, and works closely with municipal departments to manage land use projects, administer grants, and lead long-term planning initiatives. This position plays a vital role in shaping the growth and development of both communities through collaboration, strategic planning, and public engagement.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• The essential functions or duties listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the position.
  Provides professional support to the Planning Boards of both towns, including reviewing land use permit applications, zoning variance requests, and development proposals.
• Advises Planning Boards, Zoning Boards of Appeals, and other municipal committees on planning, zoning, and land use matters.
• Identifies, prepares, and administers grant applications and ensures compliance with reporting and funding requirements.
• Supports the Economic Development Committees in both towns by contributing to strategies and projects that promote growth consistent with community goals.
• Organizes and participates in public hearings, workshops, and meetings to engage community input and communicate planning initiatives.
• Represents both towns in regional and state planning initiatives, working closely with the Central Massachusetts Regional Planning Commission.
• Reviews and recommends updates to zoning bylaws, subdivision regulations, and other planning documents to reflect best practices and legal requirements.
• Develops and manages departmental budgets, monitors expenditures, and ensures fiscal accountability.
• Attends evening board and committee meetings in both towns as required.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED

Works under the general supervision of the Town Administrators of both Blackstone and Dudley, with policy direction from their respective Planning Boards.

JUDGMENT AND COMPLEXITY

The position requires extensive judgment in interpreting regulations, policies, and laws related to land use and zoning. The Planner must balance strategic planning with attention to detail and provide authoritative guidance to boards and committees in both towns.

NATURE AND PURPOSE OF CONTACTS

Relationships are frequent with municipal staff, board and committee members, residents, developers, contractors, and state agencies. The role requires strong interpersonal, negotiation, and conflict-resolution skills, especially when dealing with sensitive or controversial issues.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Bachelor’s Degree in Planning, Community Development, Architecture, Geography, or a related field required. Minimum of three (3) years of related municipal planning experience; Master’s Degree and/or AICP certification preferred. Equivalent combinations of education, training, and experience may be considered.

KNOWLEDGE, ABILITY, AND SKILLS

Knowledge: Principles and practices of planning, zoning, and land use; Massachusetts zoning statutes, including MGL c.40A, 40B, and 40C; experience with master planning processes; familiarity with GIS and mapping tools preferred.

Abilities: Interpret and enforce regulations, manage multiple projects simultaneously, analyze problems, and prepare clear reports and recommendations. Ability to communicate effectively, manage budgets, and work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders.

Skills: Strong written and oral communication; proficiency with office software and planning tools; organizational and analytical skills; ability to read and interpret construction plans, bylaws, and regulations.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

Work is typically performed in an office setting, with field visits to sites in both towns. Outdoor work may involve exposure to varying weather conditions and rough terrain. Attendance at evening meetings in both communities is required.

PHYSICAL, MOTOR, AND VISUAL SKILLS

• Work requires mobility for field visits and some lifting of equipment and materials.
  • Duties require motor coordination for operating office equipment and vehicles.
  • Frequent reading of technical documents, reports, and plans is required, along with the ability to listen and comprehend public input.