SR1 Urban Planner

Job Title: SR1 Urban Planner

Department: SR1 Community Development and Planning

Location: Ridgeland, MS, predominantly rural central Mississippi region

Type: Full-Time, On-Site

Reports To: Chief Operating Officer

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Job Overview:

SR1 is seeking an SR1 Urban Planner with a strong focus on education and health equity to promote increased economic mobility in rural areas of Mississippi. This role involves tackling the unique challenges of rural communities by fostering equitable access to quality education, healthcare, and technology. Your strategic and innovative approaches will be key in narrowing disparities in services and opportunities, thus enhancing the well-being and economic growth of rural populations. Expertise in architecture or landscape design is a plus, as this role includes collaborating with various partners to design a community campus that integrates seamlessly with its rural surroundings and is based on sustainable development planning.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Education Equity Planning:

   - Develop initiatives to enhance access to quality education in rural areas, focusing on issues like school transportation, digital learning connectivity, and equitable resource distribution.

   - Partner with educational bodies, local governments, and community groups to identify and tackle educational inequalities.

2. Health Equity Initiatives:

   - Formulate strategies to boost long-term health and outcomes in rural communities, particularly by improving access to quality foods and preventive health services.

   - Address rural health challenges including chronic diseases and mental health.

3. Economic Mobility Projects:

   - Create programs linking education and health equity with economic development, focusing on STEM college preparatory and workforce training and aligning educational programs with current and future economic opportunities.

   - Champion policies and investments that drive job creation and economic expansion in rural regions.

4. Community Engagement and Advocacy:

   - Actively engage with local communities to understand and address their needs in education, health, and economic development.

   - Represent the needs and priorities of rural communities to policymakers and stakeholders.

5. Research and Policy Development:

   - Undertake research to grasp the unique challenges and prospects in rural areas.

   - Formulate policy recommendations that leverage education and health equity as catalysts for economic mobility.

6. Collaboration and Partnerships:

   - Forge partnerships with government agencies, non-profits, educational institutions, and healthcare providers.

   - Utilize partnerships resources and expertise for collective advantages.

Required Qualifications:

- A Master’s degree in Urban/Rural Planning, Public Policy, Public Health, Education, or a related field preferred.

- At least 3 years of experience in rural planning, with a focus on education and health equity.

- Deep understanding of the socioeconomic factors impacting rural communities.

- Exceptional communication, leadership, and project management abilities.

Preferred Qualifications:

- Proven experience in community engagement and participatory planning.

- Familiarity with state and federal policies affecting rural areas.

- Grant writing skills and experience in securing funding for community projects.

Personal Attributes:

- A strong commitment to social justice and rural development.

- Empathetic and strong advocacy for diverse rural populations.

- Innovative, problem-solving mindset.

- Robust analytical and strategic planning capabilities.

Compensation and Benefits:

- A competitive starting salary of $55,000 annually, with future increases based on performance, results, and contributions to funding initiatives.

- A comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, and vision insurance, a retirement plan, and paid time off.

- Continuous professional development and training opportunities.

Application Procedure:

Interested candidates should submit a resume, cover letter, and a portfolio or case studies showcasing their work in rural planning, education, and health equity to info@SR1Tech.org. The application deadline is 03/01/2024 or until the position is filled.

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We are dedicated to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace for a diversity of solutions and welcome applications from all qualified individuals, regardless of race, gender, disability, or any other legally protected status.