Senior Community Engagement Coordinator

Training for: Planning

Greater Portland and Sebago Lakes' regional council, Greater Portland Council of Governments (GPCOG), is seeking a Senior Community Engagement Coordinator to join our team. GPCOG unites cities and towns across rural, suburban, and urban areas to collaboratively plan for our region’s future. We are committed to enhancing community life and making our region a top destination through various programs, services, and initiatives.

We value the growing diversity of our communities and integrate diversity, equity, and inclusion into all aspects of our work. This commitment drives us to create an inclusive organizational culture and ensure equitable access and opportunities for all.

As an equal opportunity employer, GPCOG adheres to all applicable laws and welcomes applicants regardless of race, color, creed, gender, or other protected characteristics. We encourage individuals from underrepresented groups to apply for our career opportunities.

To support our team, we offer benefits that promote work/life balance, including flexible schedules, remote work options, professional development, and health insurance. As part of the Communications and Engagement Team, you will advance inclusive practices in transportation, economic development, and broadband planning. If you have program management experience and a passion for community-building, we’d love to have you join us!

WHAT YOU’LL DO

• Transportation Planning (40%): Spearhead dynamic community outreach and engagement efforts for innovative transportation planning projects. Solicit community input to inform sustainable transportation solutions that boost connectivity and enhance environmental sustainability.
• Economic Development and Broadband (30%): Drive impactful outreach and engagement for key economic development initiatives, including the GPCOG Brownfields Program and the Regional and Tribal Broadband Partners Program. Promote digital equity and stimulate regional economic growth by supporting businesses and expanding broadband access.
• MPO Compliance and Best Practices (15%): Ensure all programs and activities meet civil rights and nondiscrimination standards while championing inclusive and equitable practices for federally funded projects. Be the go-to expert for best practices in creating equitable engagement processes.
• Team Leadership (15%): Lead, mentor, and inspire two Community Engagement Coordinators. Foster a collaborative environment to ensure the successful execution of projects and professional growth for your team members.

WHAT YOU’LL BRING

• Expertise in Inclusive Outreach: Proven track record in creating and executing outreach strategies that generate meaningful data for effective planning and decision-making. Experience with civil rights and nondiscrimination policies is a plus.
• Passion for Regional Planning: Knowledge or enthusiasm for local and regional planning in Transportation, Economic Development, and Broadband.
• Experience with Diverse Communities: Skilled in working with disadvantaged groups, including individuals with disabilities, older adults, BIPOC communities, and those with limited English proficiency.
• Exceptional Interpersonal Skills: Ability to build strong relationships with a diverse range of stakeholders, from public officials to community organizations and businesses.
• Community-Centric Approach: Strong orientation to understanding and addressing the diverse needs of community members, meeting them where they are.
• Detail-Oriented Multi-Tasker: Keen attention to detail with the ability to juggle multiple projects and programs efficiently.
• Effective Communicator: Excellent written and verbal skills, with the ability to simplify complex information for diverse audiences.
• Language Skills a Plus: Proficiency in non-English languages commonly spoken in our region, such as Arabic, French, Portuguese, Somali, or Spanish, is an advantage.
• Relevant Education and Experience: Equivalent combination of education and experience demonstrating the required skills and abilities.

WHAT TO KNOW

• Hybrid Work Environment: GPCOG offers a flexible hybrid work model, allowing remote work with the requirement to attend community events and meetings in the Greater Portland area.
• Travel and Hours: The role involves occasional travel within the Greater Portland region and may require extended hours.
• Competitive Benefits and Salary: Enjoy a dynamic, flexible, and creative work environment with competitive benefits, and annual salary in the mid-fifties for a well-qualified candidate.
• Flexible Schedule: Work hours are generally flexible, up to 40 hours per week, with some adjustments possible based on your needs and contributions.

WHAT TO DO NOW

1. Submit Your Application: Visit https://tinyurl.com/mu25fk5x no later than September 25, 2024, to provide your contact information and:
   1. Upload Your Cover Letter: Explain why you are interested in joining GPCOG as a senior community engagement coordinator.
   2. Upload Your Résumé: Include details about your education, relevant experience, and skills.
2. Application Review: Applications will be reviewed as they come in, and hiring decisions may be made before the application deadline.
3. Submission Requirement: All applications must be submitted through this application portal to be considered.

MORE TO KNOW

GPCOG operates as the federally designated Metropolitan Planning Organization (PACTS), the regional Economic Development District, and the state-recognized regional planning agency, serving 25 member municipalities and other communities across the Greater Portland region. As Maine’s economic hub, Greater Portland offers a vibrant and dynamic environment for both work and living. GPCOG is dedicated to advancing racial equity, social justice, and environmental sustainability, striving to foster inclusive and sustainable prosperity throughout the Greater Portland and Sebago Lakes regions.

Visit us at www.gpcog.org.