About SMCOG (pronounced 'sim-cog'):

The Southwest Missouri Council of Governments (SMCOG), housed within Missouri State University's Center for Resource Planning and Management (CRPM), offers an exciting opportunity for talented professionals to join our team in a collaborative and innovative office environment. SMCOG staff are employees of Missouri State University and enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, including health, vision, dental, and life insurance, over 21% employer contributions to a retirement pension, and a tuition fee waiver for employees, spouses, and dependents. Located on the beautiful urban campus of Missouri State University in Springfield, Missouri, our team thrives in a dynamic workspace designed for professional growth and creativity.

SMCOG is a 10-county regional planning commission serving 88 units of local government, including Springfield, Missouri's third-largest city, and Branson, a premier tourist destination in the Midwest. Nestled in the breathtaking Ozarks, our region offers unparalleled outdoor recreation opportunities, from hiking and biking trails to pristine lakes and scenic landscapes. Our communities pride themselves on a spirit of regional cooperation, and SMCOG is privileged to work with outstanding partners to advance sustainable growth and innovation.

We are deeply committed to professional development, fostering opportunities for staff to learn and excel in their fields. SMCOG's internship program also plays a key role in training the next generation of planning professionals, providing meaningful experiences to students and early-career planners. This commitment extends to fostering a culture where all staff are encouraged to pursue their own education and professional development while also mentoring and supporting students from diverse backgrounds as they gain hands-on experience working on real-world projects.

Joining SMCOG means becoming part of a team dedicated to making a real difference in our region while enjoying the quality of life and natural beauty that only the Ozarks can offer.

About the position:

First date of consideration will be December 16, 2024. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.

The department is posting for a Senior Planner (4+ years of experience) and Associate Planner (1+ year of experience). Up to two positions will be filled in any combination of the advertised postings.

If you are interested in the Senior Planner posting, please apply for that position at: https://jobs.missouristate.edu/postings/78246

If you are interested in being considered for both positions, you will need to submit your application and materials to both postings.

General Function:

The Associate Planner assists with and may manage community and regional planning programs and long-range planning for rural/small town communities by providing technical and advisory assistance regarding a variety of disciplines including disaster recovery planning, hazard mitigation planning, comprehensive and land use planning, land development and zoning regulations, site plan review, transportation planning, community development, and/or economic development. The Associate Planner conducts plan preparation and related research for assigned projects and coordinates planning activities with elected officials, citizen advisory committees, and the general public. The Associate Planner assists in the analysis of census and other statistical data and in the preparation of reports for local governments and community organizations. The Associate Planner helps to prepare grant applications and administer awarded grants.

Primary duties:

• Assist with small-town and/or county comprehensive plan updates;
• Assist with sub-area land use plans;
• Research and provide recommendations to planning staff on zoning code and other development regulation updates;
• Provide technical assistance to local governments concerning a variety of topics as outlined under General Functions in partnership with and on behalf of the Southwest Missouri Council of Governments (SMCOG).

Minimum Acceptable Qualifications:

Education: A Bachelor's degree in City or Regional Planning or a related field is required.

Experience: At least one year of responsible practical experience in planning is required. Education attainment may not count toward required experience. Supervisory experience is preferred. Experience in disaster recovery planning, hazard mitigation planning, comprehensive and land use planning, land development and zoning regulations, site plan review, transportation planning, community development, economic development, rural/small town planning, regional planning, or a related field is preferred. Experience with Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and/or Economic Development Administration (EDA) funded projects or programs is preferred.

Skill: A thorough knowledge of the principles and practices of community planning is required. A strong research background is required. Strong verbal and written communication skills, computer skills, including word processing, database management, graphic design, and presentation software are required. Knowledge of other planning-related software such as AutoCAD, EMSI, ArcPro/ArcMAP, ESRI products, etc. is preferred. The ability to compile and analyze technical and statistical data is required. The ability to work with minimal supervision, meet deadlines, and work efficiently in non-routine situations is required. The ability to work effectively with the public and elected officials is required. The ability to develop knowledge of, respect for, and skills to engage with those of other cultures or backgrounds is required.

Certification: American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) certification is preferred.

Other: Occasional day travel (150-mile radius) is required and may include occasional overnight stays. The position requires attending occasional evening meetings.

Apply online: https://jobs.missouristate.edu/postings/78249