Land of Sky Regional Council is currently seeking an energetic, self-motivated, and detail-oriented candidate for the position of Regional Planner I or II (depending on experience).  This position has a housing focus, particularly in affordable and workforce options.  

The Regional Planner I or II provides professional rural, urban, and regional planning work for members of the COG in programs such as housing and related community infrastructure, and other planning projects. Work includes program and project development and preparing grants to support these; conducting planning studies and recommendations; analyzing data, ordinances, laws and policies and developing recommendations; and providing technical assistance to the local government members. Projects will also include coordinating the LOS Regional Housing Alliance, developing a Regional Housing Trust Fund, and supporting public-private partnerships to increase housing supply and options. Work requires thorough knowledge of the housing planning and finance field and independent judgment and initiative in the performance of duties.  

Position requires the ability to: develop and manage programs and projects; write and administer grants; establish and maintain effective working relationships with staff at the federal, state, regional, local levels and with elected officials; communicate effectively orally and in writing; lead meetings and events; prepare and make presentations and answer questions at public or project meetings; perform research, and draft plans and reports.   

Knowledge of and experience with state and federal housing funding resources required (e.g. HUD, NCHFA, USDA). Knowledge of both real estate finance and housing-focused disaster recovery preferred. 

QUALIFICATIONS:  

• Bachelor’s degree in planning, public policy, social work, finance, or real estate related field required; Master’s degree and AICP a plus. Equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered 

• Experience with CDBG required 

• Experience in municipal, county or regional planning preferred but not required  

• Ability to communicate with general public, professional staff and elected/appointed officials in oral/written forms 

• Business writing proficiency 

• Requires knowledge in project management, budget management, and supporting software, including the Microsoft suite of software