MIDAS is currently offering a $3,000 bonus for new planner hires 

POSITION SUMMARY

The Planner I is an entry level position that requires the individual to perform a variety of community development functions that include planning, grantsmanship, grants management, and administrative services to member governments.

The position is covered under the Iowa Public Employees Retirement System (IPERS) along with an excellent benefit package including vacation, holiday and sick leave, health, dental and vision insurance, flexible health spending account, life insurance, and short and long-term disability.

ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES

• Prepares grant applications.
• Provides grant administrative services, including project coordination, documentation, and financial reporting.
• Meets with member governments to identify community needs, discuss concerns, and develop potential solutions.
• Conducts comprehensive planning activities, including land use, housing, economic development, transportation, and other planning-related activities.
• Researches available funding opportunities and alternative funding sources for community projects and communicates opportunities to member governments. 
• Assists with the development and implementation of community development programs, human services initiatives, and specialized planning projects. 
• Assists member governments with reviewing, updating, and revising their municipal codes of ordinances. 
• Provides technical assistance and guidance to member governments on planning, grant opportunities, community development, and related programs. 
•  Explains and promotes MIDAS programs and services to member governments.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES REQUIRED

The individual must possess the following knowledge, skills, and abilities, or be able to explain and demonstrate the ability to perform the essential functions of the job.

• Ability to perform basic mathematical and statistical calculations.
• Knowledge of financial administration, budgeting, and grant management practices.
• Knowledge of planning principles, practices, and techniques.
• Knowledge of organization, structure, and functions of municipal and county government.
• Ability to access, read, interpret, and apply technical information.
• Ability to research, prepare, and administer grant and loan applications and related documentation. 
• Ability to interact professionally and courteously with the public, elected and appointed officials, and representatives of other organizations. 
• Ability to communicate clearly and effectively, both orally and in writing, and present complex information in an organized manner that is easily understood. 
• Ability to organize work, manage multiple projects simultaneously, and prioritize tasks to meet deadlines and time constraints. 
• Sufficient mobility to work in an office environment and travel throughout the six-county region to meet with elected and appointed officials and attend meetings.

EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE, AND OTHER REQUIREMENTS

• Education/Training: Bachelor’s degree in community and regional planning, public administration, political science, journalism, business administration, geography, economics, or a related field.
• Work Experience: Internship or one year experience in municipal, regional, or community planning preferred, but not required. An equivalent combination of education, training, and experience that provides the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to perform the essential functions of the position will be considered.
• Required licenses, registrations and certifications: Valid driver’s license and ability to travel independently.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

Work is performed within the MIDAS Council of Governments buildings and throughout the six-county area to meet with member governments and other organizations and attend meetings. Most work is performed indoors in an office setting and involves sitting at a desk for extended periods, operating computers and other office equipment, and moving throughout the office and traveling to various locations within the region. The position requires regular interaction with elected and appointed public officials, community representatives, and the public. Work may involve frequent interruptions and the need to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously. 

HOURS OF WORK
Anticipated 40 hours per week. The MIDAS office is open Monday through Friday 8:00 am to 4:30 pm. Start and end times may vary dependent on work assignments. The employee may be required to work additional hours, adjust work hours, and work evenings and/or weekends to attend meetings or meet agency operational needs. Frequent travel throughout the six-county region is required.