Principal Planner-Preservation

Overview

Position Summary

Responsible for the management and coordination of the Preservation Section of the Division of Planning within the Department of Engineering and Planning.  This section oversees both the Open Space Preservation Program and the Historic Preservation Program. 

As the leader of the Preservation Section, this position provides professional planning expertise, supervises a Planner assigned to the section, and serves as a subject matter expert in historic preservation, cultural resource management and open space planning. The position also manages major preservation initiatives, serves as staff liaison to the Open Space Advisory Committee and coordinates projects with County departments, municipalities, and outside agencies.

This position reports to the Director of the Division of Planning.

Essential Functions

Historic Preservation

• Direct and coordinate the County Historic Preservation Program, including administration of the County Historic Preservation Grant Program.
• Oversee the review and evaluation of grant applications, provide technical guidance to applicants, and ensure compliance with program guidelines.
• Manage preservation planning initiatives such as countywide surveys, master plans, and studies.
• Provide technical assistance to municipalities, nonprofit organizations, and residents on preservation planning, zoning, and regulatory compliance.
• Collaborate with the County Cultural & Heritage Commission and other partners to advance interpretive, educational, and heritage tourism initiatives.

Open Space Preservation

• Administer the County Open Space Land Acquisition Program, including evaluation of parcels, negotiation, and coordination of acquisition efforts consistent with the County Open Space Master Plan.
• Supervise the preparation of conceptual subdivision and development plans; coordinate with consultant engineers and surveyors on final plan preparation.
• Oversee the County’s Trails Grant Program, Flood Mitigation Funding Program, and Special Projects Grant Program.
• Serve as staff to the Open Space Advisory Committee and coordinate closely with the Park Commission.

General Responsibilities

• Maintain accurate records of preservation projects, including contracts, deeds, surveys, and the Recreation and Open Space Inventory.
• Coordinate with the GIS Office on datasets related to open space and historic preservation.
• Represent the County at public meetings, professional conferences, and intergovernmental forums.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Director of the Division of Planning.

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor’s degree in planning, Historic Preservation, Natural Sciences, Landscape Architecture, or a related field.
• Two (2) to three (3) years of progressively responsible professional experience in planning, historic preservation, park planning, or related projects.
• Working knowledge of the Municipal Land Use Law, Local Public Contracts Law, Green Acres regulations, and relevant environmental and preservation regulations.
• Ability to analyze and interpret professional reports, statutes, and regulations; prepare and present clear written and oral communications; and engage effectively with diverse stakeholders.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and GIS applications. Strong graphic and presentation skills.
• Valid New Jersey driver’s license 

Preferred

• Master’s degree in planning, Historic Preservation, or a related field
• American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) accreditation
• New Jersey Professional Planners License
• CAD and Advanced GIS experience
• Knowledge of County policies and procedures, the Green Acres Program, and state/federal preservation standards.