Entry-level Planner (Full-time)
Berkeley or Sacramento, California

JOB SUMMARY
PlaceWorks has an immediate need for a full-time, entry-level planner to join our Planning team in Berkeley or Sacramento, California. We are looking for an individual with 1 - 4 years of professional experience related to planning (including through an internship or fellowship), who is creative, outgoing, self-starting, and passionate about helping shape and improve communities through their work. We work in a wide array of communities throughout California, and we encourage diverse candidates from non-traditional backgrounds to apply. Working in a collaborative and casual work environment under the guidance of skilled project managers and other senior staff, this planner will assist project teams by applying planning knowledge and technical skills to contribute to the successful completion of projects at a variety of scales, often working concurrently on more than one project. Typical projects of our planning practice include general and specific plans, master plans, zoning, housing policy, urban revitalization/infill, and local/regional transportation plans, as well as community engagement.

You’re most likely a fit if:

• You love planning for the future of communities and making a difference with your work.
• You can work both independently and in a highly collaborative environment, including a virtual, work from home environment when needed.
• You have strong verbal communication and interpersonal skills and aren’t afraid to ask questions.
• You have excellent writing, formatting, and proofreading skills and are detail-oriented. 
• Supporting authentic engagement with diverse communities excites you, and you’re willing to jump in to help with outreach efforts. You may be asked to coordinate events or meetings, prepare and assemble materials/supplies, and talk to community members virtually and/or in person. 
• You can support and be part of virtual engagement events through platforms like Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and similar. 
• You’re able to attend and travel to client meetings and community workshops which may occur on weekday nights and weekends. 
• You have an interest in transportation networks and the relationship to land use, safety, equity, and climate change. 
• You have professional acumen to cultivate working relationships with clients, community-based organizations, and other firms. 
• You enjoy using your technical skills to create graphics, maps, plan documents, proposals, and presentations that communicate ideas simply and clearly. 
• You enjoy analyzing and compiling research and data as required by a project. 
• You can manage your time to produce final project documents and products by stated deadlines. 
• You can work effectively on multiple projects at once. 
• You’re interested in assisting with marketing, business development, and proposal efforts for planning and outreach work. 
• You have a bachelor’s degree or master’s degree in urban or regional planning, or related field. 
• You are proficient with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint). • You’re experienced with ArcGIS and Adobe Creative Suite (not required, but these skills are a huge plus!) 
• You have a current and valid driver’s license, proof of automobile insurance, and acceptable MVR to drive on Company business for performing site visits and attending meetings. 

TO APPLY To be considered for this opportunity, submit your cover letter, resume, and writing samples and/or design portfolio as a single PDF (no greater than 10MB) with the email subject line, “Entry-level Planner” to careers@placeworks.com. In your email or cover letter, please specify which office location you are interested in.

ABOUT PLACEWORKS Based in California, PlaceWorks is one of the premier planning, design, and environmental services firms in the U.S. The firm’s expertise and services span a wide range of practices, including city planning, urban design, landscape architecture, environmental review, GIS, and community participation. Our interdisciplinary, holistic approach integrates sustainability, economic vitality, community goals, and collaboration with our clients in the planning and design process. We are passionate about our work and together with our clients, will continue to create great places. To learn more about the work we do, please visit our website: www.placeworks.com. To our employees, we offer interesting and diverse project work; a casual, collaborative, and flexible work environment; training, professional development, and career growth opportunities; a comprehensive benefits package (for full-time employees); and the chance to work amongst industry leaders, practice area founders, and friendly, supportive, and dedicated colleagues. PlaceWorks is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any kind. All employment decisions at PlaceWorks are based on business needs, job requirements, and individual qualifications, without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, age, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), gender identity and/or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, military and veteran status, physical or mental disability, or any other status covered by applicable federal, state, or local law.

GENERAL STATEMENT: Under direct supervision of the Chief Outreach and Engagement Advisor (CEA) the incumbent provides support to the Department’s outreach and engagement related activities. The incumbent is responsible for the development of resources, project tracking and administration, programmatic analysis and content management activities needed for the effective operation of Department of Conservation (DOC) programs.

SPECIFIC ACTIVITIES:

1. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

30% Outreach and Engagement Programmatic Administration

Support DOC department-wide in efforts related to community engagement and outreach. Work with divisions on programs, policies, and regulations where engagement internally or externally is needed. Review, analyze, develop and track efforts around employee support practices including: Training, Meeting Design, Facilitation, Language Access, Role Playing Practice, Engagement with Local Governments (cities, counties, special districts, regional governments), Outreach, Coaching and the DOC’s Natural and Working Lands Framework. Maintain lists of local government, non-governmental organizations, California Tribes (recognized, unrecognized and terminated) and sister state agency key contacts as directed. Assist in the preparation, tracking and coordination of conference proposals and presentations for regional and statewide trade organizations. Develop or work with graphic designer on visual representations to convey work products and productivity.

25% Facilitation and Public Meetings

Participate in interagency and other meetings. Provide assistance with all aspects of internal and external meeting planning including language access related research and digital tool assessment. Serve as backend support for online meetings. Facilitate telephone engagement with stakeholders as needed in anticipation of meetings, attend and provide support at workshops, townhalls or other types of events, including on-site and off-site meetings.

20% Racial Equity and Environmental Justice

Participation and support of advancing racial equity efforts, building on DOC’s Capital Collaborative on Race and Equity (CCORE) team’s work. Support ongoing development and maintenance of relationships with environmental justice stakeholders and organizations including formal and informal leaders. Support fostering increased sensitivity within the DOC program areas pertinent to environmental justice activities. Assist stakeholders in the navigation of technical and other processes.

15% Training

Assist with planning and executing trainings in community engagement, public participation planning, and other related topics internal to DOC and externally as needed.

1. MARGINAL FUNCTIONS

5% Special Projects

Carry out special projects as assigned by management. Travel as necessary. Assist in the development of correspondence, written reports and related documents as needed.

5% Administrative

Perform administrative duties including, but not limited to: Adheres to Department policies, rules and procedures; submit administrative requests including leave, overtime, travel, and training in a timely and appropriate manner; accurately report time in the Daily Log system; and submit timesheets by the due date.

https://www.calcareers.ca.gov/CalHrPublic/Exams/Bulletin.aspx?examCD=9PB04

Are you interested in making a lasting difference in lives of thousands? If so, this opportunity may be what you’re looking for! The Department of Revenue (DOR) is seeking to fill a Communication Consultant 4 as our Outreach and Community Partnership Manager to support our newly established Working Families Tax Credit (WFTC) division as the Department works to encourage over 400,000 Washingtonians to apply for the credit.

Initial candidate screening will begin as early as 11/17/21. The hiring authority may make a hiring decision at any time thereafter, so it is in your best interest to apply as soon as possible.

https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/washington/jobs/3288297/outreach-community-partnership-manager?utm_source=linkup&utm_medium=referrer&utm_campaign=google_jobs_apply&utm_source=google_jobs_apply&utm_medium=organic

About the position:
This position is based at DOR’s Tumwater office and directs the work of others on the Outreach and Community Partnership team including regional staff. Telework conditions may be available to candidates living within the state of Washington. The incumbent utilizes knowledge and experiences of the different limited English proficiency (LEP) communities to provide advocacy and support for LEP applicants by serving as a liaison between the community, strategic partners, and the WFTC Division.
 
To do this, the person in this position must go out into the community and gather information on potential service gaps, educational needs, communication gaps, privacy concerns, and customer service experiences. The person in this position will also be responsible for promoting the program to faith, civic, corporate, educational, government, and community-based organizations. In doing so, this role provides a needed bridge in meeting the agency's commitment to providing appropriate service and resources to community partners and assisting those partners in current and future public participation efforts.
 
Who you are:
You are an engaging public participation practitioner who has demonstrated success in identifying preferred methods of communication within underserved communities, elevating community voices, adopting DEI strategies, building trust, identifying strategic partners, and nurturing relationships.
 
What you bring:
The ability to establish and maintain strong relationships with multiple diverse internal and external stakeholders.
 
The responsibility to independently coordinate and organize outreach events, including event location, event dates, and invitees. These events require substantial relationship building and maintenance, meeting and collaborating with stakeholders to promote buy-in and cooperation.
 
Demonstrated action as a self-starter who can use independent judgment, ensuring continuous process improvement, protecting the agency’s reputation, and cultivating collaborative relationships with communities and community members across the state.
 
Who we are:
The Working Families Tax Credit (WFTC) Division supports the agency mission through education on the working families tax credit, aiding individuals in applying for the credit, registering accounts, maintaining records, examining and processing applications, and distributing credits.
 
In 2021, the Washington Legislature passed Engrossed Substitute House Bill 1297 which modifies eligibility and provides funding for the Working Families Tax Credit program. The bill names DOR as the administrator of this program. The bill also offers insight into the legislature’s public policy objective for the program, which is to stimulate local economic activity, advance racial equity, and promote economic stability and well-being for low-to-moderate income workers by providing a credit, in the form of a remittance, for the sales tax paid. This position will support the Division’s leadership as they build and administer the Working Families Tax Credit program. In particular, this position will be responsible for helping the Division secure a high enrollment rate for the WFTC.
   
Revenue is a dynamic learning organization where you will experience a remarkable work-life balance, with amazing leadership and talented co-workers ready and focused to achieve the agency's goals. We value diverse perspectives and life experiences. We employ and serve people of all backgrounds including people of color, immigrants, refugees, women, LGBTQ+, people with disabilities, and veterans. This unique culture of respect promotes a professional family of cohesive groups maximizing potential through opportunity. Visit this link to find out more about Revenue and read what our employees have to say about working here.
 

Watch our short video and let us show you why Revenue is a great place to work

Duties

Our Outreach and Community Partnership Manager will be:

• Assisting the development and management of strategic partnerships.
• Developing, reviewing, updating and submitting an outreach plan that helps the Division secure a high enrollment rate for the WFTC.
• Developing, administering, and monitoring of community contracts for outreach services.
• Providing professional and technical advice to the leadership of the Working Families Tax Credit Division concerning stakeholder management and public relations. 
• Identifying and conducting social research to help the agency effectively meet the needs of WFTC applicants. 
• Managing a team of outreach and community partnership coordinators. 
• Supporting the achievement of the agency's strategic objective of building relationships and empowering success. 

This position also participates in the development of the WFTC division’s goals, objectives, and performance measures so they align with the agency’s vision, mission, and strategic business plan.  They produce complex reports and make recommendations to be used by the division and DOR Executive Leadership in analysis and strategic decision-making.    Qualifications

A Bachelor’s degree in English, communications, journalism, humanities, public relations, business administration, accounting, marketing, social work or related field AND two years of experience in any combination of the following:

• Developing outreach campaigns.
• Working with multilingual and multicultural customers. 
• Social research, data collection and analysis.
• Writing content for the general public or specific stakeholders.
• Public speaking or conducting workshops for large audience.
• Strategic planning.
• Public relations or communications.
• Other similar experiences. 

OR
 
An associate degree or higher AND four years of experience in any combination of the following:

• Developing outreach campaigns.
• Working with multilingual and multicultural customers.
• Social research, data collection and analysis.
• Writing content for the general public or specific stakeholders.
• Public speaking or conducting workshops for large audience.
• Strategic planning.
• Public relations or communications.
• Other similar experiences. 

OR
 
A high school diploma or GED AND five years of experience in any combination of the following:

• Developing outreach campaigns.
• Working with multilingual and multicultural customers.
• Social research, data collection and analysis.
• Writing content for the general public or specific stakeholders.
• Public speaking or conducting workshops for large audience.
• Strategic planning.
• Public relations or communications.
• Other similar experiences. 

Note: Formal education will substitute year for year for experience.

Preference may be given to candidates who possess the following qualifications:

• Bi-lingual capability (A test may be required for applicants claiming these qualifications).
• Certification through the International Association of Public Participation (IAP2).
• Experience working for a government agency.
• Experience developing statistical models in STATA, SPSS, or an equivalent.

Supplemental Information

To be considered:

• Please complete your online profile in detail.
• Attach a resume detailing your work experience. 
• Please attach a letter of interest, describing your specific qualifications for this position.  

*Note - Incomplete applications and applications received without requested attachments may be disqualified.*
 
To take advantage of Veteran's preference, please attach your DD-214, member 4 long form, or your NGB-22. Please blackout your social security number and date of birth before attaching.

Agency:  Udall Foundation’s National Center for Environmental Conflict Resolution
Closing Date:  December 13, 2021

The Udall Foundation’s John S. McCain III National Center for Environmental Conflict Resolution (National Center) is seeking a dynamic professional interested in the environmental, public policy, and conflict resolution fields to serve as a Program Associate. This job is a full-time, permanent, Federal position at the GS-9 equivalent level. The successful candidate will work remotely within the United States.

The Program Associate will provide support for mediation, facilitation, and training services in collaboration with other National Center Program Managers, Project Managers, and Program Associates. The Program Associate will specifically work on the Missouri River Recovery Implementation Committee (MRRIC) along with other National Center projects. The MRRIC is a nearly 70-member collaborative body, representing a diverse group of Tribal, State, Local and Federal interests working to develop a collaborative recovery plan to replace lost habitat and protect threatened and endangered species in the Missouri River basin.

Applications are due by December 13, 2021. Application instructions and full position requirements are available at USAJOBS - Job Announcement.  Questions can be sent to Olivia Montes (montes@udall.gov).

The National Center is a program of the Morris K. Udall and Stewart L. Udall Foundation (www.udall.gov), an independent executive branch agency that promotes leadership, education, collaboration, and conflict resolution in the areas of environment, public lands, and natural resources.

Link:  USAJOBS - Job Announcement

DEA, ranked in the top 100 Top Design Firms by ENR, has an opportunity for a Graphic Designer.  This is a progressive position working as a part of our Smart Mobility group within the Transportation Business Unit to support public engagement efforts and transportation project reports and deliverables. This position will work across multiple engineering and planning disciplines and through the life cycle of projects ranging from planning to construction. The ideal candidate is a highly creative, organized, and motivated team player who enjoys collaborating with a variety of people and can work efficiently in a fast-paced, dynamic environment. A strong attention to detail and strength in artistic layout and graphic storytelling is required. This position will work directly with public engagement professionals, urban planners, and engineers to support client projects by translating complex, technical concepts into public-friendly, aesthetically pleasing graphics that clearly communicate ideas to broad audiences.  Ideal office locations for this position are Portland, OR, Denver, CO, or Salt Lake City, UT.  This person could sit in one of our other office locations located in Washington, Idaho, or California. 

This includes, but is not limited to:

• Leading the creative production of graphic materials in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment
• Preparing maps, cross-sections, schedules, process flow charts, graphs, and infographics to illustrate complex ideas
• Translating CAD design and GIS data into public-friendly graphics
• Developing project branding, including development of project logos, graphic banner headers, and document templates
• Preparing report covers, PowerPoint presentations, flyers, signs, newsletters, postcards, brochures, fact sheets, etc.
• Creating engaging content for social media posts and newspaper digital and print advertisements
• Collaborating with multiple individuals but also working independently to complete assignments
• Creatively developing materials that are unique and tailored to each project’s needs
• Innovating and finding new ways to display information to be easily understood by non-technical audiences

Basic Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in related field or equivalent
• Five plus years’ experience in graphic design services
• Experience in the A/E/C industry
• Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite programs including Illustrator, InDesign, and Photoshop
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, including Word and PowerPoint
• Must have strong written and oral communication skills, and strong graphics aptitude
• Strong attention to detail
• Able to work as part of various teams from a variety of disciplines to meet deadlines under accelerated timelines
• Commitment to high quality work and openness to revisions
• Familiarity with using Section 508/Web Content Accessibility Guidelines

Preferred Qualifications:

• Proficiency in additional Adobe Creative Suite programs not listed above
• Proficiency in ArcGIS Pro and/or ArcMap to utilize data to create Adobe Creative Suite graphics
• Proficiency in CAD a plus
• Ability to create visualizations, simulations, renderings, and animations
• Video production and editing capabilities
• Experience in web design and website creation/maintenance
• Experience with interactive websites, online public meetings and incorporating online data collection and comment management
• Experience in developing social media content to support projects

Benefits:

• Medical, Dental, Vision, Disability and Life Insurance
• Health Savings and Lifestyle Spending Account with employer contribution
• Support for continuing education and training opportunities
• Paid Time Off (PTO)/Holiday Pay
• 401k and Employee Stock Ownership Program (ESOP)
• Ownership opportunities afforded by working at an employee-owned company
• Flexible 9/80 (every other Friday off) work schedule
• Following return to the office after COVID restrictions, we will offer flexible in-person/remote options
• Holistic Wellbeing Program with a focus on physical, emotional, financial, career and community health
• Opportunity for growth with support and mentoring to help with professional goals
• Anticipated salary range for this position is $62,000-$90,000 and is based on applicable experience

Potential DEA office locations include: Portland, OR; Salt Lake City, UT; Denver, CO.

https://phh.tbe.taleo.net/phh03/ats/careers/v2/viewRequisition?org=DEAINC&cws=37&rid=5519

Are you a highly professional, natural leader with a passion for equitable public engagement? DEA’s Portland, OR office is looking for a mid-to senior-level Communications and Public Engagement Manager who thrives on collaboration and building strong relationships with a variety of stakeholders in order to help the public engage with its local government.

As a member of the Oregon Community Engagement Team this position will play a lead role in planning, developing, managing and executing public engagement initiatives for major transportation infrastructure projects. The ideal candidate will have experience managing and leading effective public outreach and engagement programs and working closely with others in a team environment, in addition to a thorough knowledge of the principles and practices of public engagement, strategic planning, project management and program evaluation.

Essential Functions:

• Developing, managing, leading and overseeing public engagement strategies and plans for project initiatives, projects, programs and services.
• Working effectively with teams across multiple disciplines to identify engagement needs in order to develop strategies for public involvement programs and events.
• Representing the firm in meetings and with the public, community groups and other key stakeholders.
• Leading meetings of project teams and advisory bodies.
• Developing content for public involvement and communications deliverables and coordinating distribution.
• Providing guidance on key partnerships, community relationships and coalition-building activities.
• Reviewing, measuring and analyzing engagement activity participation, effectiveness and outcomes.
• Ongoing research and review of public engagement best practices.
• Mentoring staff as needed in the practice of public engagement.
• Leading and strategizing key business development opportunities in collaboration with staff.
• Building and maintaining effective client, partner and stakeholder relationships.

Basic Qualifications:

• 8 or more years professional experience working in community engagement, public involvement or public relations that includes leading community outreach projects
• Bachelor's degree in communications, public affairs, public administration, planning, public policy or closely related field

Benefits:

• Medical, Dental, Vision, Disability and Life Insurance
• Health Savings and Lifestyle Spending Account with employer contribution
• Support for continuing education and training opportunities
• Paid Time Off (PTO)/Holiday Pay
• 401k and Employee Stock Ownership Program (ESOP)
• Flexible 9/80 (every other Friday off) work schedule
• Holistic Wellbeing Program with a focus on physical, emotional, financial, career and community health
• Opportunity for growth with support and mentoring to help with professional goals

Transportation Jobs with DEA

The increasing complexities of modern transportation include growing demands, aging infrastructure, rising costs, funding challenges, and environmental concerns. Agencies and communities faced with improving their transportation systems must do more with less. From initial investigations through planning, concept development, final design, and construction, DEA responds with solutions that serve today’s transportation needs while accommodating tomorrow’s growth.  Our Transportation Business Unit focuses on five practices; Bridges and Structures, Roads and Highways, Transit and Rail, Smart Mobility and Construction Engineering Services.

https://phh.tbe.taleo.net/phh03/ats/careers/v2/viewRequisition?org=DEAINC&cws=37&rid=5600

DEA’s Salt Lake City, UT office is hiring for a mid-level Public Involvement Coordinator to work with our transportation team on local projects. This position is a full time, standard 40 hours/week and requires on-call availability 24 hours a day, seven days a week for telephone calls and/or emails. Some night or weekend work may be required as needed. The successful applicant will have the opportunity to use and expand their skillset and experience in public outreach, project coordination, business development and communication techniques.

Responsibilities include but are not limited to: 

• Manage day-to-day operations for assigned public involvement projects;
• Develop effective public outreach strategies for high profile transportation projects;
• Create, edit, and produce public involvement documents;
• Monitor and respond to public inquires via public hotlines and emails accounts. Be available to hotline 24 hours per day, 7 days per week;
• Organize events including open houses, workshops, public hearings, neighborhood meetings, ground breakings, ribbon cuttings, workshops, one-on-one meetings and other public events;
• Produce and maintain stakeholder databases;
• Develop public outreach materials and coordinate distribution among project team members, stakeholders, and client as needed;
• Interact with the public utilizing a wide range of traditional and innovative communication methods;
• Act as a liaison between technical project team members and the public;

• Prepare, compose, and maintain letters, documents, and spreadsheets using Microsoft Office applications ((Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Access);
• Participate in business development activities and engage with key clients; and
• Performs other duties as assigned or required by DEA and our clients.

Basic Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Communications or Public Relations
• 3-8 years of experience planning and conducting outreach or public involvement activities, or community/public relations, city or state planning, or general communications experience.
• Excellent writing and public speaking skills

Preferred Qualifications:

• Detail oriented and enthusiastic with demonstrable knowledge of and ability to implement various public involvement techniques.
• Excellent people skills including the ability to communicate clearly, listen and summarize information, document interactions, and problem-solve or reduce conflicts when possible.
• Must be able to communicate effectively in written and oral formats including speaking to people one-on-one, in small groups, and to large groups.
• Ability to understand and explain technical information to a variety of audiences, often in high- profile situations.
• Ability to complete complex work assignments on schedule, with limited supervision.
• Adobe creative suite or other graphics programs a plus.

Benefits:

• Medical, Dental, Vision, Disability and Life Insurance
• Health Savings and Lifestyle Spending Account with employer contribution
• Support for continuing education and training opportunities
• Paid Time Off (PTO)/Holiday Pay
• 401k and Employee Stock Ownership Program (ESOP)
• Flexible 9/80 (every other Friday off) work schedule
• Holistic Wellbeing Program with a focus on physical, emotional, financial, career and community health
• Opportunity for growth with support and mentoring to help with professional goals

Transportation Jobs with DEA

The increasing complexities of modern transportation include growing demands, aging infrastructure, rising costs, funding challenges, and environmental concerns. Agencies and communities faced with improving their transportation systems must do more with less. From initial investigations through planning, concept development, final design, and construction, DEA responds with solutions that serve today’s transportation needs while accommodating tomorrow’s growth.  Our Transportation Business Unit focuses on five markets; Smart Mobility, Bridges and Structures, Roads and Highways, Transit and Rail, and Construction Engineering.

https://phh.tbe.taleo.net/phh03/ats/careers/v2/viewRequisition?org=DEAINC&cws=37&rid=4825

Ag Innovationsis a nonprofit based in Sonoma County with a 20-year history of unlocking the challenging issues at the intersection of agricultural and natural resources in California through dynamic collaborative action and community engagement. 

Would you be willing to send this out on your newsletter or any listservs that connect to your communities?  We are prioritizing applications received by June 14, although the positions will be open until filled.

You can find out more at https://aginnovations.org/careers/  Here’s a little about this position. 

Our new Project Manager will act as the project manager on assigned projects, working with groups and the public, to support meeting and event management, facilitation, writing, research, and reporting, in order to meet project outcomes. Extra skills such as outreach, data analysis, GIS, or fluent language are also welcome. This is an opportunity for an organized person with strong listening skills who is keenly interested in supporting collaboration, public outreach, and community engagement. This position will need to be in the Sacramento/Delta region 1-3 times/week for outreach and work with the team and partners. 

If you know someone who wants to apply their fantastic, collaborative project management and people skills fully to the ag and natural resource issues that will make a difference to current and future generations, then please send them our way.

To apply, a resume and cover letter should be sent to hr@aginnovations.org.

Why Join Team Lawrence in Lawrence, Kansas?

The dedicated members of Team Lawrence in Lawrence, Kansas work through our Strategic Plan framework to support an unmistakably vibrant community with innovative, equitable, transparent and responsible local government.

Our Mission: We create a community where all enjoy life and feel at home!

Team Lawrence embodies the values of Character, Competence, Courage, Collaboration and Commitment as we endeavor to achieve these important strategic outcomes for our community:

• Unmistakable Identity
• Strong, Welcoming Neighborhoods
• Safe and Secure
• Prosperity and Economic Security
• Connected City

Our enthusiasm is carried through our Commitments to the way in which we accomplish our goals:

• Community Engagement
• Efficient and Effective Processes
• Equity and Inclusion
• Sound Fiscal Stewardship
• Engaged and Empowered Teams
• Environmental Sustainability

When you join Team Lawrence, you can rest assured that your individual and collaborative work makes an important impact in the community we serve. If you are an innovative collaborator who likes being part of an enthusiastic team that effects positive change, then Team Lawrence is right for you!

Job Summary

As part of the City’s Strategic Plan, we have made the commitment to, “Listen, share, and engage with our community to drive action and build trust in government. We invite and welcome all community members to collaborate and innovate with us. Through strong and equitable engagement with our community, we share and receive information about city services and community life.”

The Engagement Manager reports to the Communications & Creative Resources Director and is an instrumental part of the Communications & Creative Resources team. The Engagement Manager will serve a lead role in planning, developing, managing, and executing strategies and activities related to community engagement and public participation to achieve the Outcomes identified in the City’s Strategic Plan. Working as part of the Community Engagement Team and as a Team Lawrence collaborator, this individual will promote a positive image for City services and programs in accordance with the Strategic Plan and related department strategies and actions.

Starting Salary Range: $68,347 to $75,182 Annually, D.O.Q.; Application Review Begins 11/29/21, Open Until Filled

Ideal Candidate Profile

The ideal candidate will be an insightful and adaptable leader driven to meet the challenges of the position. Preferred candidates will possess a combination of practical experience, diplomacy, cultural astuteness, and decision-making abilities; all with a customer service orientation. This individual should thrive on collaboration and building strong relationships with a variety of internal and external stakeholders, including those in traditionally underserved populations, to help the community engage in an equitable way that will inform and influence community decisions. The candidate must exhibit passion and skills for excellent communications, active listening, strategic thinking, and engaging people to work together to objectively find the best solutions for the most people. This position will require someone with the ability to effectively educate city staff, decision-makers and the public about the value and strategic use of public participation, as well as train City staff regarding community engagement principles and techniques, facilitation, community problem-solving, and public engagement to enhance positive community relationships and build trust.

The Engagement Manager will need to work independently and function as part of a strong City team, adapt to a broad spectrum of topics and circumstances, and analyze information and use sound judgement to make decisions or recommendations. The candidate must be able to balance multiple demands and prioritize effectively.

Supervision Received

Receives direction from the department director and assistant city managers.

Supervision Exercised

Exercises no direct supervision over other staff. May exercise technical and functional lead over full-time, part-time and volunteer staff.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Important responsibilities and duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Work with City staff across all departments to identify engagement needs and develop project-level strategies and plans for community engagement and communications.
• Plan and coordinate efforts for City programs and projects to help develop key communication messages to increase public participation and promote awareness of needs and services; work with communications and marketing team to create content and graphic design for various communication components to distribute information through various printed and electronic media, neighborhoods, meetings, workshops, and conferences. 
• Develop and establish collaborative partnerships with a diverse set of people and organizations to include community groups, non-profits, non-governmental agencies, faith communities, businesses, schools, and service providers; maintain and improve database of community contacts; develop and maintain neighborhood association and community association tracking systems and mailing lists.  
• Plan and coordinate a wide variety of community engagement projects and City-sponsored events and initiatives; prepare and deliver presentations and reports to community and neighborhood groups; represent the City in meetings with the public, community groups, and other key stakeholders to support resident decision-making, listen to concerns, and advocate for increased equitable participation.  
• Identify, respond to, and document City Commission and citizen issues, concerns, and requests for information; analyze neighborhood issues and create programs to address those issues as requested; create sustainable and measurable partnerships between neighborhoods, residents, and the City; tie work to strategic plan results and report performance.
• Provide direct assistance to residents who need help in accessing and using City and community services including provision of bilingual services and/or access to bilingual services for residents and City departments.
• Provide technical assistance and training to City staff regarding community engagement planning and implementation as well as community problem-solving, public engagement methods and best practices, and other areas that enhance positive community relationships and promote inclusion.
• Possess knowledge of Kansas Open Meetings Act and the Kansas Open Records Act as well as other relevant state and local laws.

Non-Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Participate in various community activities, special projects and programs in accordance with position responsibilities.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Equivalent to a bachelor’s degree from an accredited four-year college or university or an equivalent combination of education and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities as outlined in this job description.

The ideal candidate will have at least three (3) years of direct experience managing and leading effective local government public outreach and engagement programs that reflect a thorough knowledge of the International Association of Public Participation (IAP2) Core Values and Code of Ethics, and the principles and practices of public engagement, planning, outreach, techniques, project management, and program evaluation.

Previous experience with a variety of communications platforms, social media, and marketing campaigns highly desired. The successful candidate must possess, or have the ability to obtain, an appropriate valid driver’s license and pass City background, physical, and drug screens.

Course work or certification in public participation from the International Association of Public Participation (IAP2) or other similar organization preferred.

The Engagement Manager will be required to. . .

• Work independently in the absence of supervision. Manage work week to accomplish set goals and performance measures.
• Work with other Strategic Plan Outcome and Commitment champions to ensure that community engagement is included appropriately in all areas.
• Communicate complex issues clearly and concisely in accordance with generally accepted principles for public information, social media and emerging media.
• Possess competent and comfortable public speaking skills.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.
• Produce and collaborate on a variety of marketing and educational materials to fulfil the direction of the Director and Brand Manager.
• Be able to develop and present a diverse range of informational and educational material using a variety of media.

https://lawrenceks.org/jobs/

JOB SUMMARY  

PlaceWorks has an immediate need for a full-time, Associate or Senior Planner to join our Planning team. The candidate selected  for this position would ideally be based in our Santa Ana or Los Angeles office locations. We are looking for an individual with at  least 5 years of professional experience related to planning (including through an internship or fellowship) and who is creative, outgoing, self-starting, and passionate about public engagement and helping shape and improve communities through their  work. We work in a wide array of communities throughout California, and we encourage diverse candidates from non-traditional  backgrounds (e.g., community engagement, public relations) to apply.  

Working in a collaborative and casual work environment under the guidance of PlaceWorks’ outreach practice area leader, this  planner would be expected to work jointly on planning projects but would have a primary focus on helping to develop and  execute several outreach initiatives companywide and serve as outreach support to all practice areas and office locations. Typical  projects of our planning practice include general and specific plans, master plans, zoning, housing policy, urban  revitalization/infill, and local/regional transportation plans, as well as community engagement. This planner would likely be  involved in the following: 

• Preparing Public Participation Plans  

• Facilitating community workshops at various scales (small and large group) 

• Working with or coordinating with CBO’s  

• Setting up/facilitating digital and in person meetings sometimes in multiple languages (with translation) 

• Becoming a member of, actively participating in, and obtaining a Certificate in Foundations Course with the International  Association of Public Participation (IAP2 USA). (All of these would be funded by PlaceWorks.) 

You’re most likely a fit if: 

• You love planning for the future of communities and making a difference with your work. 

• You can work both independently and in a highly collaborative environment, including a virtual, work from home  environment when needed. 

• You have strong verbal communication and interpersonal skills and aren’t afraid to ask questions.  • You are familiar with IAP2 USA’s Spectrum of Participation and tools that are associated with each level of engagement. 

• Supporting authentic engagement with diverse communities excites you, and you’re willing to jump in to help with  high profile and often sensitive outreach efforts. You may be asked to coordinate events or meetings, prepare and  assemble materials/supplies, and talk to community members both virtually and in person. 

• You can support and be part of virtual engagement events through platforms like Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and similar. 

• You are familiar with or have a desire to learn more about online engagement tools such as Social Pinpoint,  Mentimeter, and other online tools that help to support our in-person outreach efforts. 

• You’re able to attend and travel to client meetings and community workshops which may occur on weekday nights and  weekends . 

• You have professional acumen to cultivate working relationships with clients, community-based organizations, and  other firms.  

• You can manage your time to produce final project documents and products by stated deadlines and can work  effectively on multiple projects at once. 

• You’re interested in assisting with marketing, business development, and proposal efforts for planning and outreach work.  

• You have experience working with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint). 

• Not required, but a huge plus! -- You are fluent in Spanish and can translate at community workshops/public meetings  as well as for documents.

Outreach Planner (Southern California)_Job Ad_Nov 2021.docx Page 1 of 2 

TO APPLY  

To be considered for this opportunity, submit your cover letter, resume, and writing samples and/or design portfolio as a single  PDF (no greater than 10MB) with the email subject line, “Planner – Community Engagement Focus” to careers@placeworks.com. In your email or cover letter, please specify which office location you are interested in. 

ABOUT PLACEWORKS 

Based in California, PlaceWorks is one of the premier planning, design, and environmental services firms in the U.S. The firm’s  expertise and services span a wide range of practices, including city planning, urban design, landscape architecture,  environmental review, GIS, and community participation. Our interdisciplinary, holistic approach integrates sustainability,  economic vitality, community goals, and collaboration with our clients in the planning and design process. We are passionate  about our work and together with our clients, will continue to create great places. To learn more about the work we do, please  visit our website: www.placeworks.com.  

To our employees, we offer interesting and diverse project work; a casual, collaborative, and flexible work environment; training,  professional development, and career growth opportunities; a comprehensive benefits package (for full-time employees); and  the chance to work amongst industry leaders, practice area founders, and friendly, supportive, and dedicated colleagues.  

PlaceWorks is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any kind. All  employment decisions at PlaceWorks are based on business needs, job requirements, and individual qualifications, without regard  to race, religion, color, national origin, age, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), gender identity  and/or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, military and veteran status, physical or mental disability, or any other status covered by applicable federal, state, or local law.