Job summary
Job post source
This job is directly from City of Pittsburgh
Job overview
The Senior Planner role at the City of Pittsburgh leads complex planning projects and staff, impacting city policy on land use, development, and community planning.
Responsibilities and impact
The Senior Planner performs advanced planning work, leads teams, facilitates stakeholder engagement, supports the Comprehensive Plan, attends public meetings, manages zoning and development applications, and may specialize in areas like historic preservation, public art, climate policy, or long-range planning.
Compensation and benefits
The position offers a salary of $71,230 per year and includes union membership benefits under the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees, Local 2719.
Experience and skills
Applicants must have a Master's Degree in Urban Planning or related field and two years of full-time relevant work experience; residency in Pittsburgh is required prior to employment.
Work environment and culture
The job is within a unionized environment under AFSCME Local 2719, emphasizing public service and community engagement in a municipal government setting.
Company information
The City of Pittsburgh's Department of City Planning oversees urban development and policy, focusing on sustainable growth and community well-being.
Team overview
The Senior Planner leads and coordinates work among lower-level planners and interns, collaborating across city departments and with external stakeholders.
Job location and travel
The job is based in Pittsburgh, with some evening and weekend work required; residency in the city is mandatory.
Application process
Applicants must submit a complete application with education, work experience, supplemental questions, and proof of residency; official transcripts are required at interviews; background checks are conducted.
Unique job features
The role offers specialization options in development review, historic preservation, public art/design review, climate policy, or long-range planning, with responsibilities including policy development, code administration, and public engagement.
Company overview
The City of Pittsburgh is a municipal government entity responsible for providing essential services and governance to the residents of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. It generates revenue through taxes, fees, and grants, which fund public services such as police, fire protection, public works, and community development. Historically, Pittsburgh has transitioned from an industrial hub known for steel production to a modern city emphasizing technology, healthcare, and education. The city government plays a crucial role in urban planning, infrastructure development, and maintaining public safety and welfare.
How to land this job
Position your resume to highlight your advanced professional experience in urban planning, policy development, and project leadership relevant to the City of Pittsburgh's planning priorities such as land use, sustainable development, and community engagement.
Emphasize your expertise in managing planning projects, coordinating teams, and working with diverse stakeholders including government agencies, developers, and community groups, as these are key duties of the Senior Planner role.
Apply through multiple platforms including the City of Pittsburgh’s official career portal and LinkedIn to maximize your application’s visibility and ensure you meet all submission requirements.
Connect with current Senior Planners or staff in the City Planning department on LinkedIn, using ice breakers like commenting on recent city planning initiatives or asking about their experience working on the Comprehensive Plan or zoning code updates.
Optimize your resume for ATS by incorporating keywords from the job description such as 'urban planning,' 'policy development,' 'zoning ordinance,' 'community engagement,' and 'project management' to improve your chances of passing automated screenings.
Utilize Jennie Johnson's Power Apply feature to automate tailored applications, identify multiple application channels, and find relevant City of Pittsburgh contacts for networking, allowing you to focus your energy on interview preparation and skill enhancement.
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