Community Planner

LOCATION: Livable Communities
CLOSING DATE: May 22, 2026
AREAS OF CONSIDERATION: All sources

As the Metropolitan Planning Organization for Greater Philadelphia, DVRPC builds consensus for a shared regional vision; enables data-based, community-centered solutions; and helps put plans into action. We believe DVRPC provides a stimulating environment that values innovation and collaboration, where conscientious professionals can contribute to the betterment of society. If your background and experience overlap the needs of the following vacancy, we would like to hear from you.

This professional position in the Livable Communities Section supports a diverse portfolio of planning initiatives that advance healthy communities, thriving ecosystems, and an innovative, connected economy.  The Community Planner will contribute to projects that promote the integration of land use and transportation systems to enhance livability.  This includes work on community revitalization, economic development, housing, land use and zoning, demographics, public health, and environmental planning, with particular attention to how the built environment, infrastructure, and mobility shape community outcomes.

This multidisciplinary role offers the opportunity to engage in a variety of topics, communities, and planning approaches. The position involves supporting multiple projects simultaneously through research, analysis, plan development, presentations, and stakeholder engagement. Work follows set objectives, agency policies, and professional standards, with guidance and review from senior staff, and direct supervision from the Manager, Healthy and Resilient Communities.

This position is based in DVRPC's Philadelphia office and offers a flexible hybrid work environment with the opportunity to work up to two to three days remotely.

Responsibilities

• Conduct applied research, data analysis, and report drafting to support planning studies and initiatives with minimal oversight (e.g., analyzing zoning codes and maps).
• Synthesize quantitative and qualitative information into clear, well-organized written products.
• Contribute to a range of livable communities projects, including work related to housing, economic development, infrastructure planning, and community health and resilience.
• Manage discrete project tasks or components under the direction of senior staff while supporting multiple project managers and timelines.
• Take initiative in identifying research needs, framing questions, and proposing approaches to advance project work.
• Critically evaluate data, plans, and policies to identify key issues, gaps, and opportunities.
• Collaborate on cross-departmental initiative among different Livable Communities Program Areas. (e.g. Smart Growth, Economic Development, Environment, Resilience, Infrastructure and Utilities).
• Support coordination with partners, including PADEP, U.S. EDA, state departments of transportation (DOTs), and local and county governments.
• Prepare presentations and present findings to internal teams and external stakeholders, with staff support.
• Assist with organizing stakeholder engagement initiatives such as the Municipal Exchange, and support the administration of environmental programs.
• Actively pursue opportunities to expand expertise across planning topics and technical areas.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of urban and regional planning principles.
• Strong ability to communicate complex ideas clearly and concisely to technical and non-technical audiences, both verbally and in writing.
• Strong critical thinking and analytical skills, with the ability to interpret data and draw meaningful conclusions.
• Demonstrated initiative and ability to work independently and in teams, manage competing priorities, and follow through on tasks.
• Intellectual curiosity and a proactive approach to problem-solving and learning.
• Demonstrated flexibility and adaptability, with the ability to work under the direction of multiple project managers and contribute to a diverse range of Livable Communities projects.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and Google Workspace (Docs, Sheets, Slides).
• Interest in professional development through training, conferences, or skill-building opportunities.
• Experience with Geographic Information Systems (GIS) preferred.

Experience and Training

To be classified as an RA II, a minimum of three years of professional experience in regional or community planning is required. Such experience may have from a combination of experience and training. Training may have been gained through graduation from a four-year college/university, with major coursework in a planning-related discipline applicable to community planning. A Master’s degree can be substituted for one year of experience.

Apply

All applications must be submitted no later than 5 p.m. on May 22, 2026. Applications submitted without a cover letter will not be considered.

DVRPC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Full consideration will be given to all eligible, qualified applicants without regard to age, ancestry, color, disability, domestic or sexual violence victim status, ethnicity, familial status, gender identity or expression, genetic information, marital status, medical condition (including pregnancy), national origin, race, religion, sex, or sexual orientation; or any other basis protected by federal, state, or local law. Minority, female, and disabled applicants are encouraged to apply.