Community Planner - Planning & Development Department

The City of South Portland is seeking a 37.5 hour a week (four-day workweek) full-time Community Planner for our Planning Department. This is an opportunity to join a well-run city and play a part in serving our growing and dynamic community with further opportunities for professional growth.

Position Summary: This is professional work in the field of municipal planning which involves the application of knowledge and skills to various land development and municipal long range planning topics. The work requires extensive contact with other public agencies, private parties, developers, the City Council, City Boards, Committees, Commissions, neighborhood groups, and the public. The position involves considerable independent judgment in preparing assessments, reports, and making technical determinations. The Community Planner must perform planning-related research and analysis, develop draft policy for consideration, oversee project management, ensure a transparent and efficient public process for project review, and facilitate meetings. The position serves the Council, Planning Board and various standing and special committees, as needed, which involves report preparation and public presentation. Must have the ability to occasionally work modified or longer than normal hours to accommodate evening or weekend meetings associated with committee, council, board, or public engagement meetings associated with assigned projects. The City allows for flexed time to accommodate modifications in schedule to maintain a balanced work schedule.  

Education: Bachelor’s degree in land-use planning, urban planning, or a closely related field required. Master’s degree in urban planning or a related field is preferred.

Experience: Three (3) or more years of relevant professional planning or related experience required. 

Benefits: The City of South Portland offers competitive pay and a robust selection of employee benefits, including an excellent health plan with affordable family coverage, matched retirement options, dental, vision, life, income protection, long term disability, flexible spending accounts and more.  The City also offers health insurance “payment-in-lieu” and professional development opportunities.  We offer thirteen (13) paid holidays, fifteen (15) sick days annually, fifteen (15) hours of personal time, and vacation commensurate with relevant experience. The City of South Portland is proud of its talented and dedicated workforce and provides employees job stability; a positive, family friendly workplace where work/life needs are valued and supported; and the support, encouragement and tools for successful careers.  The City of South Portland values diversity and inclusion in the workplace, and embraces sustainable operations. Come join our team dedicated to service excellence!

Salary Range: $69,926 – $79,735 annually depending on experience.  This position is eligible for annual step increases, and possible annual cost of living increases as approved by the City Council.

Application materials will be accepted and reviewed until the position is filled.  First round interviews will be determined for all who apply on or before November 2, 2026. 

Job description and fillable application are available on our website at www.southportland.gov.

To apply please send a cover letter, resume, application and three professional references to apply@southportland.gov, or mail them to us at:

City of South Portland

Genny Stilphen, Human Resources Specialist 

25 Cottage Road

South Portland, Maine 04106

EOE