Associate Planner

The Lee-Russell Council of Governments (LRCOG) is looking for a Planning and Economic Development Specialist. If you are a strong communicator, have experience with grants writing and administration, and are looking to strengthen communities and improve and the lives of others, this job might be for you!

LRCOG is a great place to work. As a regional planning and development commission, working at LRCOG will allow you to work at both the regional and local scale on a wide variety of projects. Our employees strive everyday to live by the following values:

• Acting as servant leaders. Our focus at LRCOG is to provide public services that make a difference in people’s lives. We do this effectively when we value people and put them first. We exhibit gratitude and appreciation and infuse fun and celebration into our work, recognizing and respecting all people.
• Acting with proactive purpose. Because we are given the opportunity to serve, we act with intention in all that we do. Our commitment to public service compels us to act by anticipating the needs of others and being proactive instead of reactive. Our focus is on the big picture. We are process driven, have checks and balances in place in order to safeguard our work and decisions. Focusing with conscious intent leads us to be strategic and solutions oriented, always acting in a high state of readiness to meet needs and serve others.
• Acting in collaboration. We act with a mindset of collaboration in all that we do. We realize the whole is greater than its parts. We discuss issues and engage in active decision making across departments as well as with our community partners. We clarify our communication and are not afraid to address difficult issues. We respect and value different perspectives.

As a Planning and Economic Development Specialist, you will provide local governments, non-profits, and other public organizations with urgently needed expertise and assistance. You will be working to help these entities assess their needs and develop projects or programs. You will also help them find, obtain, and administer federal and state grants. You will also assist in the development of regional plans developed by LRCOG.

This is a full-time position, requiring you to work Monday through Friday. There is a flex schedule system in place, so specific hours will depend on what you choose.

The job will be located at LRCOG's office in Opelika, AL (2207 Gateway Dr, Opelika, AL 3680).

We are looking for someone with a Bachelor's in planning, urban studies, public admin, economics, business admin, or another related field. You must possess a valid driver's license and have at least two (2) years of related work experience in urban or regional planning, community development, or economic development. Experience with grant writing and administration is preferred.

You will need to have knowledge of state/federal guidelines, including program regulations, availability of grants, and other laws and regulations impacting community and economic development.

Knowledge of community economic development as related to local governments is also necessary.

We are looking for a strong communicator with the ability to interpret complex guidelines and analyze data, while exercising independent judgement.

If you think that this is a job for you, we urge you to apply. We look forward to reviewing your application!

LRCOG is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity in the workplace. We encourage applications from all qualified individuals regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or any other status protected under applicable federal, state, or local law.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From $46,200.00 per year

Benefits:

• Flexible schedule
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan

Schedule:

• Monday to Friday

Work setting:

• In-person
• Office

Application Question(s):

• How many professional references did you provide with your resume or additional documentation?
• Did you attached a writing sample related to a grant or program you worked on?

Education:

• Bachelor's (Required)

Experience:

• related work: 2 years (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

• Opelika, AL 36801: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person