Management

Description:

The North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ), under the Division of Coastal Management (DCM), is seeking a dedicated and knowledgeable Coastal Management Community Planner to play a key role in managing and supporting North Carolina’s coastal programs. This position is designed for professionals who are passionate about environmental stewardship, sustainable coastal development, and community planning.

The successful candidate will be responsible for administering the Coastal Area Management Act (CAMA) Land Use Planning Program, ensuring that coastal municipalities and counties comply with the Coastal Resources Commission (CRC) planning standards and regulations. This role involves significant interaction with local governments, community officials, and state and federal partners to ensure the protection, conservation, and balanced development of North Carolina’s coastal areas.

In addition to planning responsibilities, the position oversees grant and infrastructure programs such as the Public Beach and Coastal Waterfront Access Program and the Boating Infrastructure Grant (BIG) Program, contributing directly to improving coastal accessibility and resilience.

This hybrid position offers a balance of office-based and remote work, providing flexibility while maintaining strong engagement with coastal communities.

Key Responsibilities:

• CAMA Program Administration: Manage and implement the Coastal Area Management Act (CAMA) Land Use Planning Program within an assigned district, ensuring adherence to the rules and regulations of the Coastal Resources Commission (CRC).

• Technical Assistance: Provide guidance and technical expertise to coastal counties and municipalities regarding land use planning and compliance with state environmental regulations.

• Resilience Coordination: Collaborate with the Resilient Coastal Communities Program (RCCP) to integrate climate resilience strategies into local land use plans.

• Grant Management: Administer the Public Beach and Coastal Waterfront Access Program and the Boating Infrastructure Grant (BIG) Program, overseeing grant administration, project evaluation, contract management, and progress monitoring.

• Stakeholder Engagement: Work directly with local officials, project sponsors, marinas, and the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service to facilitate effective planning and execution of coastal access and infrastructure projects.

• Program Compliance & Reporting: Maintain accurate records, prepare detailed reports, and ensure all projects meet state and federal compliance standards.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Strong understanding of urban and regional planning principles, particularly within the context of coastal and environmental management.

• Excellent knowledge of state and federal coastal regulations, land use laws, and resource management policies.

• Ability to interpret and apply environmental legislation and planning guidelines.

• Proficiency in grant administration, data analysis, and technical report writing.

• Effective communication and stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to collaborate across government levels and community groups.

• Strong organizational and analytical skills, with attention to accuracy and detail.

Minimum Education and Experience:

• Master’s degree in City and Regional Planning from an accredited institution; or

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Political Science, Geography, Economics, or a related field and completion of an in-service training program in Community Planning; or

• An equivalent combination of education and experience as per state guidelines.

About the Organization:

The North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) is the state’s lead stewardship agency, dedicated to safeguarding the environment and promoting public health and economic prosperity. With offices extending from the mountains to the coast, DEQ administers regulatory programs for air and water quality, land resources, and environmental protection.

The Division of Coastal Management (DCM) operates within DEQ to preserve, protect, and manage North Carolina’s coastal ecosystems through an integrated program of planning, permitting, education, and research. The division ensures the responsible development of the state’s coastal regions under the guidance of the Coastal Resources Commission (CRC).

Employees of the DEQ also benefit from participation in the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Program, offering long-term financial incentives for public service careers.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:

The State of North Carolina is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to creating a workplace free from discrimination, harassment, and retaliation. Reasonable accommodations are provided to applicants and employees with disabilities, as well as for pregnancy, childbirth, or religious practices.