Planning Director

CITY OF UNALASKA
JOB ANNOUNCEMENT
PLANNING DIVISION

OPEN DATE:        February 24, 2023
CLOSE DATE:      Until Filled

Position: PLANNING DIRECTOR
Hiring Wage: Annual Salary $93.073.55 - $148,913/depending on qualifications and experience

The City of Unalaska is accepting applications for the position of Planning Director. Unalaska is a well-established coastal community located in the Eastern Aleutian Islands and home to the International Port of Dutch Harbor, the number one commercial fishing port in the United States.  Our 4,700 full-time residents represent a multicultural community that can double in size in accordance with Alaska’s fishing seasons. Several large commercial fishing companies operate on the island and recruit employees from all over the world. 

GENERAL DESCRIPTION:  This executive position reports to the City Manager and is responsible for a full range of planning assignments in community and land development.

EXAMPLES OF WORK: Leads department staff and consultants utilized for special projects. Directs projects related to community and land development.  Develops guidance documents for land development. Analyzes and evaluates data and prepares reports and recommendations about development proposals. Serves as a land resource specialist and answers land use questions from co-workers and the public. 

This position facilitates the development of the 10-year Capital and Major Maintenance Plan (CMMP), which is pivotal during the annual budgeting process. Meets with boards and commissions to describe the study techniques and analyze the implications of planning programs and proposals. Acts as Secretary to the Planning Commission and Historical Preservation Commission. Educates the public regarding land use regulations and explains land use decisions. Conducts public meetings. Performs related work as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES: Knowledgeable about sources of planning data. Working knowledge of the principles and practices of research, the ability to use tabular and statistical data, and the ability to present the results. Knowledge of community organization and community and regional planning techniques. Knowledge of economic, fiscal, legal, and other data used in community and land planning and platting. Ability to prepare graphic and narrative materials. Ability to participate in and conduct planning meetings with public and private officials. Ability to use tact and similar qualities necessary in meeting and working with others. Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing. Ability to maintain professional public relations.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE: 

• Four (4) year degree with an emphasis in urban, rural, or regional planning courses. A relevant advanced degree is preferred.
•  Four (4) years of professional experience as a planner or equivalent.
• Three (3) years of supervisory experience. Other combinations of education and experience which could provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities listed will be evaluated on an individual basis.

LICENSES AND SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Valid Alaska Driver’s License or ability to obtain one within 90 days of employment. As a condition of employment, this position is subject to a background check.
   
• BENEFITS:
• Starting Annual Salary between $93,073 - $148,913
• Up to $10,000 Hiring Bonus (taxable)
• Up to $10,000 Relocation Assistance (taxable)
• Annual Airfare Allowance of $2,000, after the first year of employment
• Medical & Dental Insurance - premium 100% employer paid (employee & dependents)
• 100% employer-paid LifeMed Insurance (medevac) (employee & dependents)
• Personal Leave Accrual starting at 16 hours a month
• 13 paid Holidays, which includes 4 floating Holidays per year
• Eligible for Public Employees Retirement System (PERS) retirement
• Eligible for 457 Plans with MissionSquare or Mutual of America
• City-owned Vehicle to drive for work and personal use
• City Housing available for rent
• Longevity Bonus

TO APPLY:
Please submit a City of Unalaska application, resume, cover letter, and a professional writing sample. This position is open for applications until filled. Job descriptions and applications are available at City Hall, or by downloading at https://www.ci.unalaska.ak.us/hr/page/employment-application-forms

Return the completed application and other documents to the City of Unalaska, Department of Administration, P.O. Box 610, Unalaska, AK 99685; submit by email to [email protected]; or send by fax to (907) 581-4469.

WE ARE AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
The City of Unalaska is an Employer of National Service and encourages AmeriCorps, Peace Corps, and other national service alumni to apply.