Job Information
City of New York Community Planner in New York, New York
Job Description
Correct Business Title: Community Planner and Urban Designer
New York City Housing Authority’s Real Estate Development Department (REDD) is responsible for reinvesting in, restoring, and rebuilding publicly controlled affordable housing. REDD delivers on its mission by securing capital sources and operational expertise through innovative public-private partnerships that center resident voices. REDD’s work is critical to achieving NYCHA’s overall mission to provide quality housing for New Yorkers that is sustainable, inclusive, and safe, while fostering opportunities for economic mobility.
REDD oversees the implementation of the Permanent Affordability Commitment Together (PACT) program, which leverages the federal Project-Based Section 8 program to generate significant funding to modernize NYCHA communities, while preserving residents’ rights and enhancing their quality of life. In addition to the rehabilitation of existing buildings, REDD is also using PACT to undertake the complete rebuilding of public housing developments and create new mixed-income housing, community and commercial uses, public spaces, and other community assets. REDD’s PACT program has delivered $5.8 billion to over 20,000 homes and will address an additional $8 billion in capital needs for over 17,000 homes by 2025.
In addition to the PACT program, other development opportunities supported by REDD have included the transfer of development rights and the creation of thousands of affordable apartments, public and charter schools, and supportive housing.
REDD is seeking a passionate and dedicated Community Planner and Urban Designer to join our team and contribute to the success of the PACT program and other REDD initiatives. Under the direction of the Director of Community Planning, the Community Planner and Urban Designer will play a vital role facilitating community engagement processes, working with residents and developers to advocate for community needs and priorities, and shape plans for NYCHA neighborhoods. The Community Planner and Urban Designer will lead zoning analysis and site planning exercises, as well as advocate for good design across all areas of REDD’s work. If you are passionate about creating equitable, sustainable, and resilient communities, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity to join our team.
Key responsibilities:
Community Planning and Engagement: Work independently to develop and implement comprehensive community engagement strategies to involve residents, community organizations, and
stakeholders in the planning and decision-making processes related to the PACT program. Build relationships with and provide resources to resident leaders to ensure they are empowered to
effectively advocate for their communities.
Stakeholder Collaboration: Design and lead community engagement processes to build and maintain effective partnerships with local government agencies, non-profit organizations, advocacy
groups, and other stakeholders to leverage resources, share information, and coordinate efforts to support REDD initiatives.
Needs Assessment: Conduct thorough assessments of community needs, demographics, and resources to inform the development of housing and community development plans that address
the unique challenges and opportunities within each NYCHA development.
Design and Site Analysis: Conduct land use/zoning assessments, test fits and massing studies, and site analysis to inform existing conditions assessments and identify design
interventions/opportunities, which might include new construction and redevelopment.
Planning and Design: Lead teams that include development partners, architects, urban planners, and other professionals to create innovative and sustainable housing designs, neighborhood
plans, and public space improvements that enhance the quality of life for NYCHA residents.
Policy Analysis: Stay informed about relevant local, state, and federal policies, regulations, and funding opportunities related to affordable housing and community development, and provide
recommendations for policy advocacy and programmatic enhancements.
Communication and Outreach: Prepare and deliver presentations, reports, and other communications materials to convey complex planning concepts and project updates to diverse
audiences, including residents, elected officials, and the general public.
Additional Information
NYCHA employees applying for transfer, promotional, title or level change opportunities must have served a period of one year at current location and in current title and level (if applicable).
NYCHA residents are encouraged to apply.
Please read this posting carefully to make certain you meet the minimum qualification requirements before applying to this position.
Please read this posting carefully to make certain you meet the minimum qualification requirements before applying to this position.
Qualifications
A baccalaureate degree from an accredited college and two years of experience in community work or community centered activities in an area related to the duties described above; or
High school graduation or equivalent and six years of experience in community work or community centered activities in an area related to the duties as described above; or
Education and/or experience which is equivalent to "1" or "2" above. However, all candidates must have at least one year of experience as described in "1" above.
Additional Information
The City of New York is an inclusive equal opportunity employer committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce and providing a work environment that is free from discrimination and harassment based upon any legally protected status or protected characteristic, including but not limited to an individual's sex, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, veteran status, gender identity, or pregnancy.