Resource Planning Specialist

POSITION: Resource Planning Specialist
CLASSIFICATION: Full Time, Exempt, Union
POSTING PERIOD: 4/15/2024 – 5/13/2024
Salary Range:$65,000 - $83,000


POSITION DESCRIPTION:

The New Jersey Pinelands Commission is an independent state agency whose mission is to preserve, protect, and enhance the natural and cultural resources of the Pinelands National Reserve, and to encourage compatible economic and other human activities consistent with that purpose. The Commission implements a comprehensive plan that guides land use, development, and natural resource protection programs in the 938,000-acre Pinelands Area of southern New Jersey.

The Commission’s Land Use Programs Office seeks a full-time Resource Planning Specialist with a focus on hydrology, geology, and/or climate science. The position will support a wide array of on-going programs as well as projects that arise to meet emerging environmental and regional planning priorities of the Commission. Responsibilities include review of complex land use issues, wastewater and water quality challenges, and climate change impacts and coordination with other state and local governmental agencies on land use planning or resource management issues and projects. The position may assist in water resource monitoring, rule development, and/or advanced wastewater treatment and stormwater management projects.

Skills and Qualifications

Well-qualified candidates will have excellent communication skills, considerable knowledge of environmental quality parameters, and an ability to use technology in carrying out the duties of the position. Candidates must have the ability to read and interpret natural resource studies and reports, regional land use regulations and municipal ordinances, the ability to collaborate effectively with other staff and across a diverse region with many local governments, and the ability to conduct research. Duties may include data analysis, professional writing, public presentations, conceptualizing and developing solutions to regional planning and local zoning issues, and application of resource science to land use planning issues. The ability to understand and translate complex natural resource principles to other well-qualified individuals, but also to members of the public, is important.

Time and project management skills are necessary as the incumbent works on multiple projects with competing deadlines. The candidate should be able to define problems, apply concepts, and make oral presentations at staff and public meetings. The position conducts research and identifies solutions in support of identified issues and emerging needs in regional planning and resource management. Applicants should be interested in developing a wider knowledge of regional planning, infrastructure planning, water science, site remediation, or climate change planning, along with gaining understanding of the Pinelands ecosystem, the Pinelands Comprehensive Management Plan, and the Pinelands Commission’s operating procedures. The incumbent must work successfully individually and as part of a team to achieve goals. Some local travel may be required to attend meetings or visit sites within the Pinelands Area.

Required skills include proficiency with Microsoft Office tools such as Word, Excel, and Outlook, as well the ability to learn and use Teams to facilitate remote collaboration. A Driver’s license is required.  Familiarity with GIS, analytical tools, and regulatory frameworks is helpful. Understanding stormwater management, soil science, climate science or other environmental regulations may be beneficial. This position has no supervisory responsibilities.

REQUIREMENTS:

Education and Experience: A Bachelor’s degree in a related field and a minimum of three years of experience is required. Additional experience in an applicable field will be considered. A Master’s degree may substitute for one year of experience.

Residency:  The New Jersey First Act (P.L. 2011, c. 70) requires all new employees to reside in the State of New Jersey, unless exempted under law. If you do not reside in New Jersey, within one year of hire, you must either establish residency in the State of New Jersey or successfully receive an exemption from the Employee Residency Review Committee.

INTERESTED CANDIDATES: Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, resume and writing sample via e-mail to humanresources@pinelands.nj.gov by the closing date.

Only candidates selected for interview will be notified. Starting salary range is $65,000 to $83,000, commensurate with experience and qualifications. Opportunities for hybrid work and flex schedule are available. Full benefits package offered. Send resume, cover letter, and writing sample by May 13, 2024, to: humanresources@pinelands.nj.gov.

EOE

For more information, see www.nj.gov/pinelands.

Full-Time Employee Benefits

• Health insurance for employees and eligible dependents

• Dental insurance for employees and eligible dependents

• Generous leave allowance
• Membership in the New Jersey Public Employees' Retirement System (contributions made with "pre-tax" dollars)
• Voluntary deferred compensation program (contributions may be made with "pre-tax" or "after tax" dollars)
• Health insurance for retirees with 25 years service credit of which at least 7 years include Pinelands Commission service
• May be eligible for 50% payment of earned sick leave, up to $15,000 upon retirement