Category: 
Job


Location: Kalamazoo, Michigan

Neighborhood Activator

Salary: $79,070.00 Annually

Closing: 6/24/2025 11:59 PM Eastern

Description
The Neighborhood Activator is a planner who excels at community organizing and collaboration. This forward-facing position is within the Planning Division of the Community Planning and Economic Development Department (CPED) and reports to the City Planner. Kalamazoo is home to 22 distinct neighborhoods, each with its own character, history, and strengths—as well as evolving priorities and opportunities. This diversity brings energy and variety to the work, offering the Neighborhood Activator the chance to build relationships, support local leadership, and help shape community-driven solutions.

Essential Qualifications

  • A bachelor's degree in urban planning, geography, urban design, or related field; master's degree preferred. 
  • 3-5 years minimum experience in urban planning involving regular community organizing or engagement activities. Project management experience is a plus.
  • Confidence in public speaking before community members and internal staff teams. 
  • Strong listening and conflict resolution skills.
  • The ability to facilitate events, specifically outreach and engagement in neighborhoods.
  • Working knowledge of Adobe Creative Suite; working knowledge of GIS a plus.
  • A willingness to develop new techniques, lead projects in new practice areas, or oversee the use of new tools.
  • Understanding of the concepts from Congress of New Urbanism, Smart Growth America, Project for Public Spaces, and other similar best practices

Acceptable Training and Experience
Skill in:

  • Using computers and related software applications including: GIS, Adobe Suite, Photoshop, InDesign, Illustrator
  • Developing and administering the budget
  • Gathering and interpreting data
  • Preparing reports
  • Conducting research
  • Solving problems
  • Resolving community challenges
  • Preparing marketing materials
  • Preparing and giving presentations
  • Community organization and/or public engagement experience
  • Developing government programs
  • Writing grants and other reports/documents
  • Preparing proposals
  • Conflict resolution and mediation
  • Project management
  • Public speaking

How to Apply
Apply online at: https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/kalamazoomi