JOB DESCRIPTION

This position is well suited for a candidate interested in developing broad planning experience while building technical expertise in GIS, demographic analysis, and public-sector planning. The successful candidate will be adaptable, organized, and able to work effectively with Commission staff, local governments, partner agencies, elected officials, stakeholders, and the public.

Typical Work Tasks

• Assist with the coordination and update of short- and long-range regional plans, including anticipated 2027 debris management, hazard mitigation, and solid waste management projects.
• Support Community Development projects involving economic development, environmental planning, infrastructure, and related planning fields.
• Coordinate planning studies; collect, organize, analyze, and interpret technical, statistical, and demographic data; conduct research; and prepare reports and project materials.
• Perform GIS analysis and maintain GIS datasets in ArcGIS within a versioned environment, ensuring data quality and consistency.
• Create presentation-quality maps to support transportation, community development, and other planning projects.
• Access, interpret, and apply public data sources, including the Decennial Census, American Community Survey, Weldon Cooper Center, and other relevant sources.
• Conduct demographic research and reporting in support of RVARC's role as a State Data Center Affiliate.
• Lead or support data- and mapping-focused projects, including maintenance of the Community Indicators Dashboard.
• Prepare reports, public-facing materials, and presentations for stakeholders, elected officials, appointed officials, and the public.
• Identify opportunities for coordination with partner organizations, member governments, and Commission departments, including transportation planning.
• Provide technical assistance to agencies and organizations involved in planning activities.
• Represent RVARC professionally in meetings, presentations, and public engagement activities.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Required Qualifications

• Knowledge of planning theories, principles, practices, and techniques related to community development and environmental planning.
• Ability to collect, analyze, and systematically compile statistical and technical information.
• Ability to prepare clear, concise, and well-organized technical reports.
• Ability to communicate technical information in a clear and accessible manner to varied audiences.
• Ability to manage assignments and proactively meet internal and external deadlines.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Experience with ArcGIS or a demonstrated willingness and ability to learn.

Preferred Qualifications

• Familiarity with current planning literature, regional issues, and emerging planning practices.
• Familiarity with federal programs and agencies, including the Economic Development Administration, Appalachian Regional Commission, and Federal Emergency Management Agency.
• Familiarity with Virginia policies and agencies, including the Virginia Department of Emergency Management, Department of Environmental Quality, and Department of Conservation and Recreation.