Housing Planner

General Description

The Housing Planner provides planning, policy, and project management support to implement the City of Middleton Housing Action Plan and advance housing affordability goals. This position applies knowledge of housing policy, real estate development, and funding programs to facilitate the development and redevelopment of housing opportunities within the community. Through analysis, coordination, and collaboration with internal and external partners, the Housing Planner supports informed decision-making and the successful implementation of housing initiatives that align with City priorities.

Under the general supervision of the Director of Planning & Community Development, the Housing Planner implements the policy objectives set forth in the City of Middleton Housing Action Plan to address housing affordability. This position encompasses city planning, project management, and policy analysis focused on expanding housing opportunities while applying knowledge and experience in real estate development, housing funding sources and programs, and related disciplines to facilitate sound development or redevelopment. 

Essential Functions

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential job functions. Essential duties are not necessarily listed in priority order. 

1. Contributes to City capacities and strategic activities related to overall city development with a particular focus on the nexus of housing and related dynamics, such as: transportation, economic development, public health, and environmental sustainability. 
2. Serves as project manager for the creation and implementation of techniques, programs, plans, and policies regarding affordable housing.
3. Develops and maintain strong working relationships with key industry and community stakeholders, including public agencies, non-profit organizations, private lenders, developers, realtors, other units of government, etc.
4. Leads community engagement and education efforts related to housing. 
5. Provides staff support to the Workforce Housing Committee and the Community Development Authority as needed.
6. Provides housing policy related support to the City Council, Plan Commission, and other boards and committees, as needed.
7. Provides housing-specific recommendations on new development proposals.
8. Researches and seeks opportunities for grants and other funding related to creating housing opportunities, as well as outreach and education opportunities related to housing.
9. Maintains current understanding of housing market and conditions in the City and region.
10. Maintains training of current best practices in housing policy, development, and programs, and recommends policies and responses.
11. Reviews and prepares reports for internal and external audiences.
12. Contributes as an integral member of the planning and community development staff and completes special projects and other job duties as assigned or required. 

Minimum Education and Experience

The requirements listed below are necessary to perform the essential duties of the position

1. Graduation from an accredited college with a Master’s degree in city planning or a closely related field. 
2. A minimum of one (1) year of experience in city planning, affordable housing development, or a closely related field 
3. Access to personal or public transportation for job-related duties

The City of Middleton recognizes that candidates may bring a variety of backgrounds and experiences. An equivalent combination of education, training, and relevant work experience that demonstrates the ability to perform the essential duties, as determined by Human Resources, may be considered

Competencies

For successful performance in this position, the incumbent must demonstrate the following competencies. 

Knowledge

1. General knowledge of planning concepts and development procedures related to residential, commercial, industrial, recreational, and institutional land uses.
2. General knowledge of development regulations and zoning codes.
3. Basic knowledge of computer applications in planning.

Skills

1. Strong organizational and time management skills to handle to high volume of work, set priorities effectively, and adapt to shifting demands
2. Excellent written and verbal communication skills, complemented by strong customer service and interpersonal skills.
3. Collaboration skills to effectively work with others, fostering teamwork, clear communication, and creative problem solving
4. Proactive and self-directed with a high initiative level.
5. Intermediate level of proficiency in technology, including Microsoft Office, Adobe Acrobat, and other relevant software applications

Abilities

1. Ability to read and interpret plans and policies.
2. Ability to understand and apply state, federal, and local laws, regulations, and ordinance to ensure compliance with all work practices
3. Ability to demonstrate integrity, honesty, initiative, and respect while maintaining strict confidentiality in all aspects of work
4. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers, other governmental agencies, contractors, developers, and the general public.
5. Ability to exhibit exceptional professionalism, tact, and decorum in all areas of work duties.
6. Ability to be reliable, timely, and proactive in the completion of duties, meeting deadlines, and responding to inquiries. 

Work Conditions and Physical Demands 

A regular, Monday – Friday, 40-hour work schedule is required for this position. Attendance at evening meetings and special events may be occasionally required. Remote work opportunities may be available with supervisor approval.

• Work is performed in both an office environment and outdoors in all weather conditions, with possible exposure to noise, dust, fumes, and other environmental factors.
• Work will involve contact with the public, requiring effective communication and professional conduct.
• Work may involve exposure to stressful situations, deadlines, and conflict resolution.
• Work requires extended periods of standing or walking.
• Work will involve operating standard office equipment (computer, telephone, copier, etc.).
• Vision and hearing are required to perform essential functions and communicate effectively