Land Use Planner

Land Use Planner – Rutland Regional Planning Commission (RRPC)

Location: Rutland, Vermont

Position Type: Full-time

The Rutland Regional Planning Commission (RRPC) is seeking a Land Use Planner to join our team of professionals dedicated to fostering vibrant, sustainable, and resilient communities across the Rutland Region. This position focuses on regional and municipal land use planning, implementation of Vermont’s evolving land use framework, support for zoning and development regulations, and advancing housing and economic opportunity while conserving natural resources.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and/or support regional and municipal land use planning, including updates to the Rutland Regional Plan, Future Land Use Map, and municipal town and city plans.
• Assist in developing zoning bylaws, subdivision regulations, and other land use ordinances.
• Provide technical assistance to municipalities, including planning commissions, selectboards, development review boards, and zoning administrators on land use, growth management, and development review.
• Support implementation of Vermont’s land use statutes and policies (e.g., 24 V.S.A. Chapter 117, Act 181, Act 250) and help communities understand how these frameworks affect local planning and development.
• Conduct spatial analysis and mapping using GIS to support land use planning, housing and infrastructure analysis, and natural resource and hazard identification.
• Assist with grant writing and administration, including projects funded through state and federal programs.
• Plan and facilitate public outreach and engagement, including workshops, open houses, surveys, and online engagement tools to ensure inclusive and transparent planning processes.
• Collaborate with RRPC staff on multidisciplinary projects to ensure land use considerations are integrated across all planning programs.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in urban/regional planning, landscape architecture, public administration, environmental studies, or a related field.
• 3 years of professional planning experience, preferably in regional or municipal (candidates with less experience but strong relevant skills may be considered).
• Working knowledge of Vermont’s land use laws and planning framework, including 24 V.S.A. Chapter 117; familiarity with Act 181 and/or Act 250 is a plus.
• Experience developing or implementing municipal plans, bylaws, and land use regulations, including zoning and subdivision.
• Proficiency with ArcGIS and Microsoft Office; experience with Adobe Creative Suite, online mapping, and digital engagement platforms is a plus.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including experience preparing public-facing documents and presenting to boards and community groups.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects, work independently and collaboratively, and meet deadlines.
• Experience with grant writing and project administration is desirable.

Preferred Skills

• AICP certification (or eligibility/willingness to obtain).
• Experience working in rural and small-town communities.
• Familiarity with Vermont’s legislative and regulatory landscape related to housing, land use, natural resources, and infrastructure.
• Experience with public engagement tools, visual communication, or graphic design.

Why Join RRPC?

• Opportunity to work on high-impact projects that shape the future of housing, land use, climate resilience, and resource conservation in the Rutland Region.
• Collaborative and supportive team environment with meaningful opportunities for cross-disciplinary work.
• Strong emphasis on professional development, training, and long-term growth.

·        Competitive salary range of $55,000–$80,000, commensurate with experience, and a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Employer-paid health, dental, and life insurance

• Vermont Municipal Employees Retirement System (VMERS) participation

• Generous paid time off and 13 paid holidays

• Paid parental leave

• Professional development support, including AICP certification, trainings, and conferences

• Flexible/hybrid work schedule

Application Process

For consideration, applicants should submit a cover letter and resume (PDF) to:

Devon Neary, Executive Director, devon@rutlandrpc.org

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis and the position will remain open until filled.

The Rutland Regional Planning Commission is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.