Senior Planning Specialist, Grade 25

Posting number: 2026-00665

Department: Department of Housing and Community Affairs

Division: HCA 76 Affordable Housing Programs

Job classification: Senior Planning Specialist

Posting type: Internal/External Applicants

Categories: Housing, Community Development

Summary

WHO WE ARE

The Department of Housing and Community Affairs (DHCA) increases the supply of affordable housing; maintains existing housing in a safe and sanitary condition; plans and implements activities which prevent and correct problems that contribute to the physical decline of residential and commercial areas; and ensures fair and equitable relations between landlords and tenants.

The Affordable Housing Programs Section in the Division of Housing of DHCA is responsible for administering the Moderately Priced Dwelling Unit (MPDU) Program, the Workforce Housing (WFH) Program, the Single-Family Housing Rehabilitation Program, and the Energy Efficiency Program. The section also works with down-payment assistance programs with the State of Maryland.

WHO WE ARE LOOKING FOR

The Affordable Housing Programs Section of DHCA seeks an individual with deep knowledge of land use planning and zoning practices, as well as affordable single-family and multifamily housing programs, to join their team. Candidates who are knowledgeable about inclusionary zoning programs such as the County’s Moderately Priced Dwelling Unit (MPDU) Program and Workforce Housing (WFH) Program are particularly encouraged to apply. 

The Senior Planning Specialist, Grade 25 will work with builders and developers throughout the planning process to ensure compliance with the Affordable Housing Programs. This position will be responsible for developing, analyzing, and implementing legislation and plans that affect affordable housing.

The employee must have a strong work ethic, be able to work independently and as part of a team, work under time-sensitive conditions, handle multiple assignments simultaneously, and work effectively and equitably with a variety of stakeholders.

Examples of duties

This position will lead the administration, compliance, and continuous improvement of the County’s affordable housing development programs through project management, policy analysis, stakeholder coordination, and technical expertise in housing regulations and development practices. 

• Administer and oversee Moderately Priced Dwelling Unit (MPDU) and Workforce Housing (WFH) development projects from planning through occupancy, ensuring compliance with County regulations, affordable housing requirements, and program objectives. 
• Provide technical expertise on Chapter 25A, affordable housing policies, zoning regulations, land use planning, and housing development programs. Advise internal and external stakeholders on program requirements, regulatory compliance, and implementation strategies.
• Review residential development proposals, negotiate and administer housing agreements, coordinate with developers and government agencies, and ensure projects meet affordable housing commitments and regulatory standards.
• Assist in developing, refining, and analyzing program policies, regulations, legislation, etc. to stimulate the production of affordable single-family and multi-family housing. 
• Conduct research in public land and tax records, evaluate housing trends and emerging development practices, analyze program performance, and recommend policy, regulatory, and process improvements to advance County housing goals.
• Analyze data/trends in affordable housing and assess needs; oversee consultant studies; make presentations to policymakers, the private sector, and the public. 
• Respond to inquiries from developers, lenders, appraisers, realtors, attorneys, and MPDU owners. 
• Maintain development and housing production data, track program outcomes and compliance metrics, and develop reports, dashboards, and analyses to support strategic planning and decision-making.
• Serve as the primary liaison among County agencies, developers, housing organizations, community stakeholders, and the public to support affordable housing initiatives, resolve complex issues, and communicate program information.
• Deliver guidance and training to staff, development teams, attorneys, and stakeholders on MPDU/WFH requirements, agreements, processes, and affordable housing regulations.
• Monitor the intersection of affordable housing programs and zoning, master plans, incentives, and emerging housing models, and provide recommendations to address evolving housing needs and support County priorities.