Planner or GIS/Data Analyst (fulltime with a 35-hour work week)

Salary Range:     Fulltime salary is $60,000-$80,000 (depending on qualifications) with a competitive benefits package.

Location:             Hybrid work environment in Sandy Hook, CT

Closing Date:      Open until filled or closed

About WestCOG

The Western Connecticut Council of Governments (WestCOG) is a metropolitan and regional planning organization that provides transportation, environmental, economic development, GIS and other planning services to 18 municipalities in western and southwestern Connecticut.

Job Description and Responsibilities

WestCOG seeks a qualified, experienced, and highly motivated person(s) to serve as full-time Planner(s) or GIS/Data Analyst(s). Planners and analysts will assist member municipalities in understanding and responding to recent legislation affecting housing, zoning, parking, and stormwater. Assignments will often involve translating regulatory changes into practical, locally grounded planning and implementation strategies.

Job responsibilities may evolve over time and are expected to include:

• Development of local and regional studies and plans, including:
  • Buildout analysis that integrates land use regulations and infrastructure capacity
  • On-street parking suitability and safety road network analysis
• Collect and organize information, including spatial data
• Conduct research and analysis, including modeling exercises
• Prepare reports and related planning documents for technical and non-technical audiences;
• Development of program designs, model regulations, and implementation guidance;
• Communicate with local, state, and federal officials;
• Facilitate public and stakeholder engagement, and
• Other tasks as assigned.

Desirable Knowledge, Skills, and Experience

The ideal candidate should have a minimum of three years of relevant work experience that provides the applicant with the desired skills, knowledge, and ability to perform the job. These include:

• Planning experience, especially in the areas of:
  • Housing and zoning implementation, especially under evolving state mandates
  • Transportation, especially as it relates to safety and parking
  • Land use analysis, including buildout and fiscal impact studies
  • Water, sewer, stormwater, or waste infrastructure planning
  • Application of state and federal statutes to planning practice, including recent housing and infrastructure legislation
• Understanding of:
  • Local zoning and subdivision regulations
  • Housing development feasibility and construction cost factors
  • Transportation and circulation systems, with attention to real-world constraints affecting emergency access, snow removal, and road safety
• Proficiency in one or more of the following: ArcGIS, QGIS, Python, or other data analysis/spatial modeling tools
• Strong written and oral communication skills
• Strong project and time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects with overlapping deadlines and deliver actionable outcomes
• Ability to work within government structure and protocol
• Ability to work independently, while maintaining strong working relationships with supervisors, staff, elected officials, committee members, consultants, and members of the public

Salary and Benefits

Title to be determined commensurate with experience, and corresponding salary of $60,000-$80,000, depending on qualifications. WestCOG offers a competitive benefits package including: health and dental insurance; retirement contributions; vacation time; personal time; sick time; flexible work schedules; telecommuting opportunities; employer-paid professional accreditations, memberships and conferences; and federal student loan forgiveness (employees of public agencies may qualify under Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness).

This position provides an opportunity to work in a collaborative, supportive, and motivating work environment. The employee will be stationed in WestCOG’s office located in Sandy Hook, CT, with a flexible and hybrid work schedule (partial remote work). Fulltime employees may have an option to work a compressed schedule to take one day off per week. This area of Connecticut combines the rural charm of a small New England town with the sophistication and amenities of metropolitan suburbs and offers:

• High quality of life
• Close access to major cities, universities, world-class healthcare, cultural and recreational attractions
• Excellent school systems
• Access to recreational trails and many leisure activities

Applying for the Position

To be considered, applicants must have a driver’s license, access to reliable transportation, and be legally able to work in the United States.

To apply, submit a cover letter, resume, references, and salary requirements to Mr. Francis R. Pickering, Executive Director at westcog@outlook.com. Selected candidates may be asked to provide additional information or to appear for a personal interview. This position will remain open until filled or closed.