We’re Hiring! Director of Planning & Infrastructure Job Listing
To apply, submit a resume and cover letter to apply@the48thward.org. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.
Director of Planning & Infrastructure Job Description:
The Director of Planning & Infrastructure is responsible for implementing the alderwoman’s planning and infrastructure vision by collaborating with key stakeholders on planning, development, and infrastructure projects.
Strong ethics, transparency, and an actionable commitment to diversity are requirements of anyone working for Alderwoman Manaa-Hoppenworth.
The salary for this position is $72,000. Benefits include City of Chicago health insurance, pension, paid holidays, and paid vacation/sick leave. This position is expected to work onsite in the 48th ward aldermanic office, and requires some night and weekend hours. The Director of Planning & Infrastructure reports directly to the Chief of Staff.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
PLANNING
Performs professional urban planning of a complex nature in partnership with DPD, CDOT, and DOH, related to the development, revitalization, and preservation of 48th ward residential and commercial corridors.
Functions as liaison with city, state, and federal agencies involved in collaborative planning projects. Works with City departments, governmental agencies, and private consultants on major planning and policy initiatives.
Evaluates proposals submitted by public agencies and private consultants for conformity with Ward development goals and objectives, governmental regulations, and funding eligibility.
Prepares project presentations for various stakeholders including community members and business owners.
Prepares position statements and letters for Chicago Plan Commission, City Council committees, Liquor Commission, and Zoning Board of Appeals.
Reviews and interprets city, state and federal legislation pertaining to planning.
Represents the Alderwoman at community meetings, civic and business organizations, and at City Hall to discuss planning activities and projects.
Provides technical assistance to community organizations, delegate agencies, and developers concerning planning and development projects related work plans
Project portfolio includes both small and large-scale projects such as:
Engages the community by hosting community meetings and co-Chairing Ward Office Committees including the 48th Ward Bryn Mawr Alliance, and Zoning Advisory Council.
Collaborates with the Chambers of Commerce, SSAs, and BACP, and others on economic development initiatives.
INFRASTRUCTURE
Functions as liaison with city, state, and federal agencies involved in collaborative infrastructure projects.
Collaborates closely with CDOT, the Chicago Park District, and local community stakeholders.
Manage the ward’s $1.5 million infrastructure budget in line with office values and priorities.
Engage community members through the Participatory Budgeting process including recruiting, training, and managing a team of volunteers to facilitate brainstorming workshops.
COMMUNICATIONS
Apprises Alderwoman Manaa-Hoppenworth and the Chief of Staff of sensitive or contentious issues and makes suggestions and recommendations.
Maintains strong records of all projects and requests in Airtable.
Works closely with the Comms Manager and Neighborhood Services Team to keep the community informed about all planning and infrastructure projects.
Works closely with the Web Developer on website content and tools related to Planning and Infrastructure.
Builds strong relationships between the 48th Ward Office and city departments including BACP, DPD, CDOT, Parks, etc.
Builds strong relationships between the 48th Ward Office and community stakeholders including the Chambers of Commerce, SSAs, CBOs, Block Clubs, volunteers, etc.
OTHER DUTIES
All team members participate in Phone coverage.
Performs other related duties as assigned.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Bachelor’s degree or Master’s degree in Urban Planning, Urban Design, Architecture, Landscape Architecture, Transportation Planning, Environmental Planning, or a directly related field, plus a minimum of 3-5 years of planning or project management experience.
Reside in the City of Chicago.
Team player that communicates and collaborates effectively.
Ability to work in a face-paced, multi-faceted environment with many challenges and opportunities.
Exceptional verbal and written communication skills.
Excellent interpersonal skills and conflict resolutions skills.
Strong computer skills in Google Workspace and database management (experience with Airtable, Asana, or similar tools a plus) with an ability to learn and utilize new technologies.
Preference for candidates bilingual in Spanish, Vietnamese, or Chinese.
