Planning Director Visa Sponsorship Jobs in Pennsylvania
Planning director roles in Pennsylvania span municipal agencies in Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, regional transit authorities like SEPTA, and large private firms such as AECOM and WSP. Employers across infrastructure, urban development, and logistics sectors regularly sponsor international candidates, making Pennsylvania one of the more active states for planning director visa sponsorship.
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Get Access To All JobsINTRODUCTION
A best-in-class city that attracts best-in-class talent, Philadelphia is an incredible place to build a career. From our thriving arts scene and rich history to our culture of passion and grit, there are countless reasons to love living and working here. With a workforce of over 30,000 people, and more than 1,000 different job categories, the City of Philadelphia offers boundless opportunities to make an impact. As an employer, the City of Philadelphia values inclusion, integrity, innovation, empowerment, and hard work above all else. We offer a vibrant work environment, comprehensive health care and benefits, and the experience you need to grow and excel. If you’re interested in working with a passionate team of people who care about the future of Philadelphia, start here.
What we offer
- Impact - The work you do here matters to millions.
- Growth - Philadelphia is growing, why not grow with it?
- Diversity & Inclusion - Find a career in a place where everyone belongs.
- Benefits - We care about your well-being.
Agency Description
The mission of the Office of Homeless Services (OHS) is to make homelessness rare, brief and non-recurring. OHS works collaboratively with a broad-based network of public and private providers focused on utilizing practices that are informed by data, honor the different perspectives of all stakeholders and are trauma-informed. OHS works to maximize resources while monitoring emerging trends, tracking progress and shifting priorities as needed.
Job Description
Position Summary
Reporting to the Deputy Director, the Director of Continuum of Care (CoC) Planning is responsible for implementing systems to ensure the agency effectively performs its role as the Collaborative Applicant for the US Department of Housing & Urban Development’s Continuum of Care Program; and supporting citywide planning efforts to make homelessness rare, brief, and non-recurring. The CoC is designed to promote community-wide commitment to the goal of ending homelessness; provide funding for efforts by nonprofit providers, and State and local governments to quickly rehouse homeless individuals and families while minimizing the trauma and dislocation caused to homeless individuals, families, and communities by homelessness; promote access to and effect utilization of mainstream programs by homeless individuals and families; and optimize self-sufficiency among individuals and families experiencing homelessness. The Director of CoC Planning is responsible for coordination of planning activities outlined in the HUD CoC Program Interim Rule with a primary focus on developing a community-wide plan, the HUD CoC Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA), and CoC Governance. This position supports OHS staff in understanding regulatory requirements for the CoC Program and how they impact systemwide policies, including the local Coordinated Entry System. The CoC Director of Planning works collaboratively with OHS, community partners and HUD-funded agencies to further the distribution and effective management of federal funds granted by HUD; ensures stakeholders have input on CoC planning and policies.
Essential Functions
- Supervise the program manager who coordinates and supports the required HUD Continuum of Care governance structure to ensure it is functioning effectively to address the needs and the priorities of the CoC, and ensure related Committees are functioning effectively to address the needs and the priorities of the CoC.
- Review and analyze federal and local regulations and priorities; national trends and best practices; and assessment and performance data to design, in partnership with OHS leadership and staff, homeless service providers, and people with lived experience of homelessness, strategies to ensure that Philadelphia’s homeless assistance system is informed and equipped to effectively and efficiently make homelessness rare, brief, and non-recurring in Philadelphia.
- Utilize data to develop, implement, and track performance and progress toward goals.
- Responsible for ensuring the system process design is continuously assessing the needs, developing priorities, and strategizing how to address them effectively.
- Working closely with a variety of stakeholders, managing the processes to develop, implement, and monitor Philadelphia’s plan and related strategies and action steps to make homelessness rare, brief, and non-recurring.
- Utilize data analysis to recommend policy and system changes to align with a high-quality, trauma informed, person-centered, efficient homeless assistance system that effectively serves people experiencing homelessness and their unique strengths, needs, and experiences.
- Design and implement workplans, in partnership and collaboration with CoC stakeholders and OHS leadership and staff to meet the timelines and requirements of the annual HUD Continuum of Care Program application process.
- Supervise the program manager, who will work with CoC stakeholders and OHS leadership and staff to design and implement the annual new and renewal project evaluation, rating, ranking, and funding process to secure HUD CoC Program funding for homeless-dedicated projects that align with HUD and local priorities and that advance our CoC’s performance in making homelessness rare, brief, and non-recurring.
- Manage the CoC Planning Unit, including supervising two program managers and one youth system coordinator. Ensure team building and staff professional development activities. Develop procedures, tracking, and reporting mechanisms to improve the management functioning of the unit and its contribution to Departmental and CoC-wide goals.
- Identify and establish commitments from community partners and other mainstream service providers to supplement services and housing offered through the CoC to improve efficiency and effectiveness of the homeless assistance system.
- Represent the department at public forums, panels, and other speaking engagements.
- Coordinate community-wide efforts with OHS leadership and staff.
- Research and investigate best practices for improvements in system performance, quality, efficiency, and accountability.
- Other duties as required.
Competencies, Knowledge, Skills And Abilities
COMPETENCY:
- Project Management - Develops project plans; Coordinates projects; Communicates changes and progress; Completes projects on time; Manages project team activities.
- Relationship Management - Develop and maintain harmonious relationships with key stakeholders to ensure positive and productive program/project outcomes.
- Attention to Detail - Directs multiple project details; Develops specific timelines; Drives all entities to project completion; No detail too small to overlook.
- Oral Communication - Speaks clearly and persuasively in positive or negative situations; Listens and gets clarification; Responds well to questions; Demonstrates excellent group presentation skills; Participates in meetings.
- Written Communication - Writes clearly, persuasively and informatively; Edits work for spelling and grammar; Varies writing style to meet needs; Presents numerical data effectively; Able to read and interpret written information.
- Innovation - Displays original thinking and creativity; Meets challenges with resourcefulness; Generates suggestions for improving work; Develops innovative approaches and ideas; Presents ideas and information in a manner that gets others' attention.
- Planning/Organizing - Prioritizes and plans work activities; Uses time efficiently; Plans for additional resources; Sets goals and objectives; Develops realistic action plans.
Skills And Experience
- Principles and practices of project management, public administration, management, and organizational development.
- Principles and techniques for the development of funding requests.
- Principles and techniques for program development and performance measurement.
- Knowledge of federal regulations governing applicable grant programs.
- Ability to coordinate activities among units and Departments.
- Ability to establish effective working relationships with stakeholders, partners, and potential funders.
- Ability to present ideas effectively orally and in writing.
- Attention to detail and self-motivation to deliver quality work.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint).
- Tenacity and thoroughness, with the ability to solve problems and deal with a variety of situations.
- Deadline and solutions oriented with the ability to handle multiple competing priorities.
- A self-starter who can roll up their sleeves and get involved in everything from big projects to mundane, simple tasks.
- Strong time management skills.
Qualifications
Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited college or university required; Master’s Degree preferred. At least four years’ experience in supervision and management; four years’ experience in program or grant administration. Experience in non-profit or government setting addressing housing or other social services. Or any equivalent combination of education and experience deemed to be acceptable by the Personnel Department. Ability to physically perform the duties of the position.
Additional Information
TO APPLY: Interested candidates must submit a cover letter and resume.
Salary Range: $95,000 - $113,000
Discover the Perks of Being a City of Philadelphia Employee:
- Transportation: City employees get unlimited FREE public transportation all year long through SEPTA’s Key Advantage program. Employees can ride on SEPTA buses, subways, trolleys, and regional rail for their daily commute and more.
- Parental Benefits: The City offers its employees 8 weeks of paid parental leave.
- We offer Comprehensive health coverage for employees and their eligible dependents.
- Our wellness program offers eligibility into the discounted medical plan.
- Employees receive paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
- Generous retirement savings options are available.
- Pay off your student loans faster - As a qualifying employer, City of Philadelphia employees are eligible to participate in the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program. Join the ranks of hundreds of employees who have already benefited from this program and achieved student loan forgiveness.
- Unlock Tuition Discounts and Scholarships - The City of Philadelphia has forged partnerships with over a dozen esteemed colleges and universities in the area, ensuring that our employees have access to a wide range of tuition discounts and scholarships. Experience savings of 10% to 40% on your educational expenses, extending not only to City employees but in some cases, spouse and dependents too! Join the City of Philadelphia team today and seize these incredible benefits designed to enhance your financial well-being and personal growth!
The successful candidate must be a city of Philadelphia resident within six months of hire. Effective May 22, 2023, vaccinations are no longer required for new employees that work in non-medical, non-emergency or patient facing positions with the City of Philadelphia. As a result, only employees in positions providing services that are patient-facing medical care (ex: Nurses, doctors, emergency medical personnel), must be fully vaccinated.
The City of Philadelphia is an Equal Opportunity employer and does not permit discrimination based on race, ethnicity, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, marital status, source of income, familial status, genetic information or domestic or sexual violence victim status. If you believe you were discriminated against, call the Philadelphia Commission on Human Relations at 215-686-4670 or send an email to faqpchr@phila.gov. For more information, go to: Human Relations Website: http://www.phila.gov/humanrelations/Pages/default.aspx
INTRODUCTION
A best-in-class city that attracts best-in-class talent, Philadelphia is an incredible place to build a career. From our thriving arts scene and rich history to our culture of passion and grit, there are countless reasons to love living and working here. With a workforce of over 30,000 people, and more than 1,000 different job categories, the City of Philadelphia offers boundless opportunities to make an impact. As an employer, the City of Philadelphia values inclusion, integrity, innovation, empowerment, and hard work above all else. We offer a vibrant work environment, comprehensive health care and benefits, and the experience you need to grow and excel. If you’re interested in working with a passionate team of people who care about the future of Philadelphia, start here.
What we offer
- Impact - The work you do here matters to millions.
- Growth - Philadelphia is growing, why not grow with it?
- Diversity & Inclusion - Find a career in a place where everyone belongs.
- Benefits - We care about your well-being.
Agency Description
The mission of the Office of Homeless Services (OHS) is to make homelessness rare, brief and non-recurring. OHS works collaboratively with a broad-based network of public and private providers focused on utilizing practices that are informed by data, honor the different perspectives of all stakeholders and are trauma-informed. OHS works to maximize resources while monitoring emerging trends, tracking progress and shifting priorities as needed.
Job Description
Position Summary
Reporting to the Deputy Director, the Director of Continuum of Care (CoC) Planning is responsible for implementing systems to ensure the agency effectively performs its role as the Collaborative Applicant for the US Department of Housing & Urban Development’s Continuum of Care Program; and supporting citywide planning efforts to make homelessness rare, brief, and non-recurring. The CoC is designed to promote community-wide commitment to the goal of ending homelessness; provide funding for efforts by nonprofit providers, and State and local governments to quickly rehouse homeless individuals and families while minimizing the trauma and dislocation caused to homeless individuals, families, and communities by homelessness; promote access to and effect utilization of mainstream programs by homeless individuals and families; and optimize self-sufficiency among individuals and families experiencing homelessness. The Director of CoC Planning is responsible for coordination of planning activities outlined in the HUD CoC Program Interim Rule with a primary focus on developing a community-wide plan, the HUD CoC Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA), and CoC Governance. This position supports OHS staff in understanding regulatory requirements for the CoC Program and how they impact systemwide policies, including the local Coordinated Entry System. The CoC Director of Planning works collaboratively with OHS, community partners and HUD-funded agencies to further the distribution and effective management of federal funds granted by HUD; ensures stakeholders have input on CoC planning and policies.
Essential Functions
- Supervise the program manager who coordinates and supports the required HUD Continuum of Care governance structure to ensure it is functioning effectively to address the needs and the priorities of the CoC, and ensure related Committees are functioning effectively to address the needs and the priorities of the CoC.
- Review and analyze federal and local regulations and priorities; national trends and best practices; and assessment and performance data to design, in partnership with OHS leadership and staff, homeless service providers, and people with lived experience of homelessness, strategies to ensure that Philadelphia’s homeless assistance system is informed and equipped to effectively and efficiently make homelessness rare, brief, and non-recurring in Philadelphia.
- Utilize data to develop, implement, and track performance and progress toward goals.
- Responsible for ensuring the system process design is continuously assessing the needs, developing priorities, and strategizing how to address them effectively.
- Working closely with a variety of stakeholders, managing the processes to develop, implement, and monitor Philadelphia’s plan and related strategies and action steps to make homelessness rare, brief, and non-recurring.
- Utilize data analysis to recommend policy and system changes to align with a high-quality, trauma informed, person-centered, efficient homeless assistance system that effectively serves people experiencing homelessness and their unique strengths, needs, and experiences.
- Design and implement workplans, in partnership and collaboration with CoC stakeholders and OHS leadership and staff to meet the timelines and requirements of the annual HUD Continuum of Care Program application process.
- Supervise the program manager, who will work with CoC stakeholders and OHS leadership and staff to design and implement the annual new and renewal project evaluation, rating, ranking, and funding process to secure HUD CoC Program funding for homeless-dedicated projects that align with HUD and local priorities and that advance our CoC’s performance in making homelessness rare, brief, and non-recurring.
- Manage the CoC Planning Unit, including supervising two program managers and one youth system coordinator. Ensure team building and staff professional development activities. Develop procedures, tracking, and reporting mechanisms to improve the management functioning of the unit and its contribution to Departmental and CoC-wide goals.
- Identify and establish commitments from community partners and other mainstream service providers to supplement services and housing offered through the CoC to improve efficiency and effectiveness of the homeless assistance system.
- Represent the department at public forums, panels, and other speaking engagements.
- Coordinate community-wide efforts with OHS leadership and staff.
- Research and investigate best practices for improvements in system performance, quality, efficiency, and accountability.
- Other duties as required.
Competencies, Knowledge, Skills And Abilities
COMPETENCY:
- Project Management - Develops project plans; Coordinates projects; Communicates changes and progress; Completes projects on time; Manages project team activities.
- Relationship Management - Develop and maintain harmonious relationships with key stakeholders to ensure positive and productive program/project outcomes.
- Attention to Detail - Directs multiple project details; Develops specific timelines; Drives all entities to project completion; No detail too small to overlook.
- Oral Communication - Speaks clearly and persuasively in positive or negative situations; Listens and gets clarification; Responds well to questions; Demonstrates excellent group presentation skills; Participates in meetings.
- Written Communication - Writes clearly, persuasively and informatively; Edits work for spelling and grammar; Varies writing style to meet needs; Presents numerical data effectively; Able to read and interpret written information.
- Innovation - Displays original thinking and creativity; Meets challenges with resourcefulness; Generates suggestions for improving work; Develops innovative approaches and ideas; Presents ideas and information in a manner that gets others' attention.
- Planning/Organizing - Prioritizes and plans work activities; Uses time efficiently; Plans for additional resources; Sets goals and objectives; Develops realistic action plans.
Skills And Experience
- Principles and practices of project management, public administration, management, and organizational development.
- Principles and techniques for the development of funding requests.
- Principles and techniques for program development and performance measurement.
- Knowledge of federal regulations governing applicable grant programs.
- Ability to coordinate activities among units and Departments.
- Ability to establish effective working relationships with stakeholders, partners, and potential funders.
- Ability to present ideas effectively orally and in writing.
- Attention to detail and self-motivation to deliver quality work.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint).
- Tenacity and thoroughness, with the ability to solve problems and deal with a variety of situations.
- Deadline and solutions oriented with the ability to handle multiple competing priorities.
- A self-starter who can roll up their sleeves and get involved in everything from big projects to mundane, simple tasks.
- Strong time management skills.
Qualifications
Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited college or university required; Master’s Degree preferred. At least four years’ experience in supervision and management; four years’ experience in program or grant administration. Experience in non-profit or government setting addressing housing or other social services. Or any equivalent combination of education and experience deemed to be acceptable by the Personnel Department. Ability to physically perform the duties of the position.
Additional Information
TO APPLY: Interested candidates must submit a cover letter and resume.
Salary Range: $95,000 - $113,000
Discover the Perks of Being a City of Philadelphia Employee:
- Transportation: City employees get unlimited FREE public transportation all year long through SEPTA’s Key Advantage program. Employees can ride on SEPTA buses, subways, trolleys, and regional rail for their daily commute and more.
- Parental Benefits: The City offers its employees 8 weeks of paid parental leave.
- We offer Comprehensive health coverage for employees and their eligible dependents.
- Our wellness program offers eligibility into the discounted medical plan.
- Employees receive paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
- Generous retirement savings options are available.
- Pay off your student loans faster - As a qualifying employer, City of Philadelphia employees are eligible to participate in the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program. Join the ranks of hundreds of employees who have already benefited from this program and achieved student loan forgiveness.
- Unlock Tuition Discounts and Scholarships - The City of Philadelphia has forged partnerships with over a dozen esteemed colleges and universities in the area, ensuring that our employees have access to a wide range of tuition discounts and scholarships. Experience savings of 10% to 40% on your educational expenses, extending not only to City employees but in some cases, spouse and dependents too! Join the City of Philadelphia team today and seize these incredible benefits designed to enhance your financial well-being and personal growth!
The successful candidate must be a city of Philadelphia resident within six months of hire. Effective May 22, 2023, vaccinations are no longer required for new employees that work in non-medical, non-emergency or patient facing positions with the City of Philadelphia. As a result, only employees in positions providing services that are patient-facing medical care (ex: Nurses, doctors, emergency medical personnel), must be fully vaccinated.
The City of Philadelphia is an Equal Opportunity employer and does not permit discrimination based on race, ethnicity, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, marital status, source of income, familial status, genetic information or domestic or sexual violence victim status. If you believe you were discriminated against, call the Philadelphia Commission on Human Relations at 215-686-4670 or send an email to faqpchr@phila.gov. For more information, go to: Human Relations Website: http://www.phila.gov/humanrelations/Pages/default.aspx
Planning Director Job Roles in Pennsylvania
See all Planning Director Jobs in Pennsylvania
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Search Planning Director Jobs in PennsylvaniaPlanning Director Jobs in Pennsylvania: Frequently Asked Questions
Which visa types realistically fit planning director roles in Pennsylvania?
Planning director roles typically qualify for H-1B visa sponsorship as a specialty occupation requiring a bachelor's degree in urban planning, architecture, civil engineering, or a related field. EB-2 and EB-3 employment-based green cards are also realistic pathways, with EB-2 requiring an advanced degree or exceptional ability and most cases going through PERM labor certification. Canadian and Mexican nationals cannot use TN visa for this role, as planning director is not a listed USMCA profession.
Which companies sponsor visas for planning directors in Pennsylvania?
In Pennsylvania, employers with documented H-1B and PERM filing history for planning and operations leadership roles include AECOM, WSP, Jacobs Engineering, the City of Philadelphia's planning department, PennDOT, and several regional transit and infrastructure authorities. Large healthcare systems and universities in Philadelphia and Pittsburgh also sponsor planning directors for facilities and capital project roles. Reviewing DOL OFLC disclosure data by employer and occupation confirms active sponsorship history.
How to find planning director visa sponsorship jobs in Pennsylvania?
Migrate Mate lists Pennsylvania employers with verified visa sponsorship history for planning director roles, so you can focus your search on companies that have already filed for similar positions. Use Migrate Mate to filter by role and state, then review each employer's filing history before applying. This approach is more targeted than a general job search and surfaces opportunities at municipal agencies, engineering consultancies, and private developers across Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, and other Pennsylvania metros.
Which cities in Pennsylvania have the most planning director sponsorship jobs?
Philadelphia generates the highest volume of planning director sponsorship activity, driven by its concentration of infrastructure firms, the City Planning Commission, the Philadelphia Housing Authority, and large healthcare and university campuses with ongoing capital programs. Pittsburgh follows, with demand from Port Authority of Allegheny County, regional development agencies, and engineering firms tied to energy and infrastructure projects. Allentown and Harrisburg also post planning director roles, particularly within municipal and state government contexts.
What state-specific factors should planning directors know about Pennsylvania sponsorship?
Pennsylvania's planning director market is shaped by its mix of aging infrastructure, dense urban redevelopment projects, and significant public-sector employers. Philadelphia and Pittsburgh both have active capital improvement programs that drive demand for senior planning talent. Candidates with degrees in urban planning, civil engineering, or public administration have the strongest specialty occupation profiles for H-1B purposes. USCIS requires the offered role to demonstrate that a specific degree in a directly related field is a minimum requirement, so job descriptions and employer documentation matter considerably in the petition.
What is the prevailing wage for sponsored planning director jobs in Pennsylvania?
U.S. employers sponsoring a visa must pay at least the prevailing wage, which is what workers in the same role, area, and experience level typically earn. The Department of Labor sets this rate to make sure companies aren't hiring foreign workers simply because they'd accept lower pay than a U.S. worker. It varies by job title, location, and experience. You can look up current prevailing wage rates for any occupation and location using the OFLC Wage Search page.