COMMUNITY & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT PLANNER – PART TIME
The Town of Belchertown is accepting applications for a part- time Community & Economic Development Planner to support and advance the Town’s economic development goals, community vitality, and quality of life initiatives. Working under the direction of the Town Planner, this position focuses on economic development, tourism, outdoor recreation, agriculture, arts and culture, business retention and expansion, and housing partnerships.
Major duties include: Supporting the Town’s economic development goals with a focus on outdoor recreation assets, conservation areas, trail systems, agriculture, tourism, arts, and culture; identifying and analyzing economic drivers and development opportunities; conducting research on economic and demographic trends; collaborating with local businesses, farmers, cultural organizations, chambers of commerce, and community groups; maintaining business resource information and economic development content on the Town website; coordinating business outreach and business needs assessments; supporting grant identification, writing, and reporting; assisting with housing and community development initiatives; developing promotional and marketing materials; coordinating community events and initiatives; serving as a liaison to regional and state economic development organizations and locally with the Creative Economy Committee and supports the Cultural District; acts as a liaison between the Town Manager and the Belchertown Economic Development Industrial Corporation; maintaining economic development metrics and reports; and responding to inquiries from residents, businesses, and prospective investors.
Minimum qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in Planning, Public Administration, Economic Development, Marketing, Environmental Studies, or a related field; one to three (1–3) years of experience in municipal planning, economic development, or community development; or any equivalent combination of education and experience. Experience in a municipal or small-town setting is preferred. The successful candidate will possess knowledge of economic development principles, community planning, tourism promotion, agricultural and recreation-based economic strategies, grant programs, marketing, and stakeholder engagement. Strong communication, organizational, research, and project management skills are required.
This is a Personnel By-Law Grade 9 non-exempt position. The anticipated hiring range is $34.41–$43.93 per hour, 15 hours per week. Anticipated start date of July 1, 2026. Potential increase in hours in the future.
For a complete job description and to complete an online employment application, please visit www.belchertown.org/jobs. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled
The Town of Belchertown is an EEO employer; we encourage women, minorities, and veterans to apply.
Pay: $34.41 - $43.93 per hour
Work Location: Hybrid remote in Belchertown, MA 01007
