Position: Planner or Senior Planner

Location: Oxford, Mississippi

About us: Slaughter & Willingham, PLLC is a trusted urban planning firm committed to supporting communities through comprehensive planning, zoning, growth management strategies, and a wide variety of other support for local planning. From small towns and rural counties to growing cities, we focus on practical solutions that enhance quality of life while promoting sustainable development.

Responsibilities:

• Conduct and support planning projects, including comprehensive plans, zoning ordinances, and growth management strategies.
• Perform data collection, mapping, and spatial analysis using GIS to support land use, transportation, and growth management decisions.
• Prepare reports, presentations, and visual materials to communicate planning concepts and recommendations effectively.
• Engage with stakeholders, including local governments, residents, and community organizations, to gather input and build consensus.
• Provide research and analysis on land use trends, demographics, and economic data to inform planning projects.
• Collaborate with team members on planning studies, ordinance drafting, and project deliverables.
• Assist in public engagement processes, including organizing and facilitating meetings, workshops, and outreach initiatives.
• Conduct field evaluations and assessments.

Knowledge:

• Knowledge of the principles and practices of planning
• Knowledge of principles and practices of research and data collection
• Knowledge of effective writing techniques
• Statistical, algebraic, or geometric knowledge and ability to apply such knowledge in practical situations
• Knowledge of computer programs and applications, which may include Microsoft Office, Internet applications, and database management
• GIS programs and applications

Skills:

• Oral communication and interpersonal skills to explain rules and procedures clearly to the public
• Creative problem-solving and critical thinking skills to gather relevant information to solve practical problems
• Ability to create high-quality documents. Ability to create graphic designs, development strategies, and render plans via sketches and/or computer graphics highly desirable.
• Ability to work on several projects or issues simultaneously
• Ability to work independently or in a team environment as needed
• Effective written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to facilitate in-person and virtual public participation activities

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Urban and Regional Planning, Geography, GIS, Public Administration, or a related field
• 1-5 years of experience in community planning, zoning, or a related discipline.
• Proficiency in GIS (ArcGIS preferred), including data management, mapping, and analysis strongly preferred.
• Knowledge of land use planning, zoning regulations, and comprehensive planning principles.
• Strong written, verbal, and visual communication skills, with experience in public presentations a plus.
• Ability to manage multiple projects, meet deadlines, and collaborate effectively with a team.
• Familiarity with public engagement methods and tools is preferred.