Assistant Planner

We are hiring an Assistant Planner in the Planning & Code Enforcement Department. This position performs technical, professional, and administrative level work in administering the City's planning program. Under the general direction of the Director of Planning & Code Enforcement, the Assistant Planner assists with the City's current and long-range planning functions, including geographic information systems, land-use management, zoning, and development review. Work may require extensive contact with other municipal staff, public agencies, developers, residents, and advocacy groups. The City of Westbrook is committed to fostering a professional, respectful, and welcoming workplace. We encourage all qualified individuals to apply and ensure that hiring decisions are based on experience, skills, and the needs of the role. We also welcome applications from women, people of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, people with disabilities, members of ethnic minorities, foreign-born residents, and veterans. Our goal is to create an environment where every employee can contribute meaningfully and feel supported in their role.

Key Responsibilities:

Coordinates the Planning Review process, including reviewing site plan or subdivision applications, coordinating interdepartmental review, compiling comments, preparing Planning Board agendas, drafting staff memos, and producing supporting documentation needed for the approval process. Monitors development review projects following approval through pre-construction, construction, and project closeout. Conducts site inspections to ensure compliance with Planning Board approval and approved development plans. Coordinates with the development team regarding site violations. Administers all review functions related to the Village Review Overlay District and Sign Standards. Researches and drafts ordinance amendments for consideration by the Planning Board and City Council. Provides technical assistance and information to the public regarding development, zoning, and land use regulations. Supports implementation of the City's Comprehensive Plan in coordination with the Director, Economic Development Director, City Engineers, other City departments, outside agencies, and City officials. Performs other related duties and projects as assigned. For further details, the full job description is available online.

Education and Qualifications:

Bachelor's degree in Planning, Community Development, Public Administration, or closely related field required. A minimum of one to three (1-3) years of experience in municipal planning, land use, community development, or related field required. Must hold a valid driver's license with clean driving history. Any equivalent combination of education and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the primary duties and responsibilities may be considered.

Compensation and Benefits:

Competitive salary range of $27.15 - $39.87 per hour. This position is covered by the General Unit collective bargaining agreement. The next agreement is under negotiation for a July 1, 2026 effective date. A comprehensive benefits package includes medical (PPO plan at 12% premium cost, plus HRA reimbursement), dental, vision, life insurance (one times base salary), short and long-term disability, and employee assistance program. Generous paid leave including vacation, sick, and 13 holiday per year. Tuition reimbursement for job-related courses. Retirement program of the Maine Public Employees Retirement Plan (Maine PERS) or defined 457 with matching up to 6%.

Application Process:

Whether you have found us through our jobs page, Indeed, the Maine Municipal Association (MMA), Facebook, or other platforms, you can apply online, via email, or in-person. Be sure to include all necessary information, including the position applied for, salary requirement, experience, education, qualifications, and certifications. Online application Interested applicants should send their resume and letter of interest to the Human Resources Department at HR@westbrook.me.us. In-Person Applications at 2 York Street, Westbrook, ME Applicants who are not currently based in Maine should include a brief statement addressing their plans and readiness to relocate, including timing and reason for interest in the region. Applicants selected as finalists for this position will be subject to a comprehensive reference and background check. The City of Westbrook is an Equal Opportunity Employer and prohibits discrimination or harassment of any kind. We recruit, employ, train, compensate, and promote without regard to race, religion, creed, color, national origin, age, gender, gender identity, and or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, veteran status, or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. About the

City of Westbrook:

The City of Westbrook was a traditional mill city that has grown and diversified significantly over the last two decades to become a residential hub and business center for the region. Westbrook has a population of over 20,000 and covers 17.36 square miles. Westbrook is centrally located to both urban and rural amenities. Currently, the City employs approximately 195 full-time and 80 variable hour employees covered by five different Collective Bargaining Agreements. The departments contained within the City are the Mayor's Office, Economic Development, City Clerk, Finance, Human Resources, Planning, Code Enforcement, & Assessing, Public Services, Community Services, General Assistance, Library, Police, Fire & Rescue, and Dispatch. The Planning Department supports the Planning Board with reviewing and approving new development or redevelopment projects. This includes residential, commercial, and mixed-use developments. The Planning Department also conducts studies and planning initiatives related to transportation, conservation, affordable housing, and infrastructure. The Code Enforcement Department is responsible for enforcing land use regulations, building codes, plumbing and electrical permits, and inspections. It ensures compliance with the City's ordinances, codes, and zoning regulations, helping maintain public safety and quality of life in Westbrook. Both departments collaborate on a wide range of community improvement projects. The department is staffed by six full-time employees.

Pay:

$27.15 - $39.87 per hour

Benefits:

401(k) 401(k) matching 457(b) Dental insurance Employee assistance program Flexible spending account Health insurance Life insurance Paid time off Parental leave Professional development assistance Retirement plan Tuition reimbursement Vision insurance Wellness program

Work Location:

In person