Location: Groton

PLANNER I / II (Land)

Planning, Development & Public Works

Full-Time, 40 Hours Per Week

PLANNER I STARTING SALARY: $74,350 /annum

PLANNER I SALARY RANGE: $74,350 - $85,405 (contract currently in negotiation)

PLANNER II STARTING SALARY: $80,480 / annum

PLANNER II SALARY RANGE: $80,480 - $92,445 (contract currently in negotiation)

*The Town is seeking candidates at the Planner II experience and credentialed level, but reserves the right to fill the position at the Planner I level where appropriate.*

POSITION OVERVIEW(S):

The Planner I - Land Use performs professional planning work in land use, housing, transportation, zoning, and environmental management. Working under standard departmental procedures, this role analyzes economic and physical data, reviews residential and commercial development applications, and helps update the Town Plan of Conservation and Development. Key duties include administering land use regulations, preparing complex statistical reports, and providing technical support to Town Boards and Commissions. The Planner I collaborates with public officials, developers, attorneys, and inter-governmental agencies, and is responsible for grant administration, public presentations, and attending required evening meetings.

The Planner II - Land Use performs professional planning services focused in the functional areas of land use, zoning, conservation, environment, housing, transportation, and related planning areas. Working under standard departmental procedures, this role organizes priorities, manages assigned projects, and compiles economic, social, and spatial data affecting land use and growth. Key responsibilities include coordinating with regional, state, and federal agencies; conferring with developers, attorneys, and the public; and reviewing site plans, subdivisions, and development proposals. The position provides technical support to Town Boards and Commissions, prepares reports and policy recommendations, administers zoning codes, and contributes to updates of the Town's Plan of Conservation and Development. The Planner II collaborates with public officials, developers, attorneys, and inter-governmental agencies and is responsible for grant administration, public presentation, and attending required evening meetings.

The successful candidate brings deep expertise in environmental and land use planning, with a strong background in permit application review and site inspections. Essential qualifications include clear written and verbal communication skills for delivering board presentations and technical reports. The candidate must demonstrate firm, tactful, and impartial regulatory enforcement, alongside a proven ability to build collaborative relationships with developers, attorneys, town officials, and the public. This role also requires leading community outreach, drafting and administering intergovernmental grants, and attending required evening meetings.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

Planner I - The skills and knowledge required would usually be acquired with a Bachelor's Degree in Planning, Public Administration, or a closely related field; and two years' experience in municipal planning.

Planner II - The skills and knowledge required would usually be acquired with a Master's Degree in Planning or a closely related field; with a minimum of four years' experience in planning dealing with land use and zoning issues.

REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS/LICENSES:

Planner I & II are required to possess and maintain a valid Motor Vehicle Operator's License. Certification as a Planner by the American Institute of Certified Planners desirable.

SELECTION PROCEDURE:

Review of applications/resumes with best qualified candidates eligible for oral board interview(s).

APPLICATION PROCEDURE:

Applications are available at the Human Resources Office, Groton Town Hall, 45 Fort Hill Road, Groton, CT 06340 or at . Applications must be returned on or before August 17th, 2026.