The Executive Director is the key management leader of Mo-Kan Regional Council. The Executive Director is responsible for overseeing and implementing the administration, programs and strategic plan of the organization. Other key duties include grant writing, fundraising, marketing, and community outreach for the ultimate purpose of promoting community and economic development in Northwest Missouri and Northeast Kansas.

The exempt position reports directly to the Board of Directors.

  GENERAL RESPONSIBILITIES:

1) Board Governance: Works with board to fulfill the organization mission.

• Responsible for leading Mo-Kan Regional Council in a manner that supports and guides the organization’s mission as defined by the Board of Directors.
• Responsible for communicating effectively with the Board and providing, in a timely and accurate manner, all information necessary for the Board to function properly and to make informed decisions.

2) Financial Performance and Viability: Develops resources sufficient to ensure the financial health of the organization.

• Responsible for the fiscal integrity of Mo-Kan Regional Council, to include submission to the Board of a proposed annual budget and monthly financial statements, which accurately reflect the financial condition of the organization.
• Responsible for fiscal management that anticipates operating within the approved budget, ensures maximum resource utilization, and maintenance of the organization in a positive financial position.
• Responsible for fundraising and developing other resources necessary to support Mo-Kan Regional Council’s mission.

3) Organization Mission and Strategy: Works with board and staff to ensure that the mission is fulfilled through programs, strategic planning and community outreach.

• Responsible for implementation of Mo-Kan Regional Council’s programs/grants that carry out the organization’s mission.
• Responsible for strategic planning to ensure that Mo-Kan Regional Council can successfully fulfill its mission into the future.
• Responsible for the enhancement of Mo-Kan Regional Council’s image by being active and visible in the community and by working closely with elected officials, other professional, civic and private organizations.

4) Organization Operations:  Oversees and implements appropriate resources to ensure that the operations of the organization are appropriate.

• Responsible for effective administration of Mo-Kan Regional Council operations.
• Responsible for the hiring and retention of competent, qualified staff.
• Responsible for signing all notes, agreements, and other instruments made and entered into and on behalf of the organization.
• Responsible for grant writing efforts to maximize funding opportunities.

Professional Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree required, Master’s Degree in Business/Public Administration is preferred
• Transparent and high integrity leadership
• Five or more years of senior nonprofit management experience
• Solid, hands-on, budget management skills, including budget preparation, analysis, decision-making and reporting.
• Strong organizational abilities including planning, delegating, program development and task facilitation.
• Ability to convey a vision of Mo-Kan Regional Council’s strategic future to staff, board, volunteers and donors.
• Knowledge of fundraising strategies and donor relations unique to nonprofit sector
• Skills to collaborate with and motivate board members and other volunteers.
• Strong written and oral communication skills
• Ability to interface and engage diverse volunteer and community groups.
• Demonstrated ability to oversee and collaborate with staff.
• Strong public speaking ability

 Specific Job Responsibilities:

• Planning and operation of annual budget.
• Establish employment and administrative policies and procedures for all functions and for the day-to-day operation of the organization.
• Serving as Mo-Kan Regional Council’s primary spokesperson to the communities, the media and the general public.
• Establish and maintain relationships with various organizations throughout the state and utilize those relationships to strategically enhance Mo-Kan Regional Council’s mission.
• Work with and assist member communities in meeting local challenges.
• Report to and work closely with the Board of Directors to seek their involvement in policy decisions, funding opportunities and to increase the overall visibility of the organization throughout the State.
• Supervise, collaborate, and work with staff on all projects.
• Strategic planning and implementation.
• Research, review, and author grants for fund development.
• Oversee organization Board and committee meetings.
• Oversee marketing and other communications efforts.
• Review and approve contracts for services.
• Other duties assigned by the Board of Directors.

Physical Requirement:

• Must be able to travel to meetings and events in the region and throughout the nation.
• Must be able to drive and./or ride long distances, including overnights.
• Must be able to sit for extended periods.
• Able to lift boxes/objects.

Position Title: Community and Economic Development Planner
Classification: Exempt – Administrative/Professional
Hiring Range: $18.00–$22.00 per hour, depending on qualifications
Work Location: Trenton, Missouri (flexible or remote work may be allowed at the director’s discretion)

Organization Overview
Green Hills Regional Planning Commission (GHRPC) serves eleven counties in North Central Missouri by providing research, programming, and outreach to local governments. GHRPC is a sub-state planning and development agency funded by federal and state agencies and organized as a voluntary association of local governments.

Position Summary
The Community and Economic Development Planner supports the Community Development Department through grant writing, project development, administration, and regional marketing. The position requires strong writing skills, knowledge of municipal and county government operations, and excellent verbal communication skills.

Project Development and Grant Writing
Provides planning and technical assistance for project development and grant writing on behalf of cities and counties. Interprets and implements state and federal programs and manages successful completion of funded activities.

Typical Functions
Develops planning studies and reports for comprehensive plans and updates. Prepares and presents reports to governing bodies. Acts as a liaison between community groups, government agencies, developers, and elected officials. Conducts field evaluations and assessments. Receives training in state and federal compliance areas including civil rights, procurement, contract management, financial management, equal opportunity, and labor standards. Completes forms, documents, financial ledgers, and spreadsheets. Visits construction sites, conducts interviews, and attends meetings throughout the region. Serves as project representative for grantees and collaborates with engineers, architects, contractors, and government officials. Supports economic development initiatives.

Typical Skills
Strong interpersonal and oral communication skills. Creative problem-solving abilities. Ability to review plans and apply regulations. Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously. Ability to work independently or in teams. Strong attention to detail while maintaining strategic focus. Effective written communication. Ability to facilitate public participation. Ability to read and comprehend engineering reports, grant applications, program manuals, and budgets.

Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree or relevant work experience in engineering, transportation, project management, public policy, planning, business administration, economic development, or government. Strong writing skills and knowledge of local, state, and federal government principles and practices.

Equal Opportunity Statement
GHRPC provides equal employment opportunities without regard to protected status under federal, state, or local law.

To Apply
Applicants should email a resume, cover letter, and three professional references to Lisa Colson, Executive Director, at lisa@ghrpc.org. This position is open until filled.

Job Title: Loan Officer
Location: St. Joseph, MO
Work Schedule: Full-time, Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM
Work Location: In office

Position Summary
The Loan Officer is responsible for administering and performing duties related to processing, packaging, closing, and funding SBA loans, ensuring all loans comply with SBA 504 and 7(a) regulations. This position collects and analyzes financial data and related information to determine creditworthiness.

Qualifications Required
The Loan Officer must have a combination of four years of experience in accounting or finance or equivalent education in Finance/Accounting, Credit Analysis, and/or Commercial Lending. SBA lending experience is preferred.

Required Knowledge and Skills
Knowledge of SBA lending markets, including SBA 504 loan programs and SBA 7(a) programs. Ability to prepare and review loan application packages for submission to the SBA, ensuring accuracy and completeness of all required documents. Knowledge of accounting principles and practices. Effective oral, written, organizational, and interpersonal communication skills. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with customers, lenders, vendors, and co-workers. Ability to adapt to a fluid environment and work well under pressure. Self-motivated with the ability to resolve issues independently. Strong computer skills, including Microsoft Office Suite, Adobe, and lending software such as Capital Access Financial System (CAFS), Income Verification Express Service (IVES), and Ventures (preferred).

Marketing Responsibilities
Educates potential borrowers and lenders about program benefits, leverages various marketing channels, and builds strong relationships with small business owners and regional economic developers.

Physical Requirements
Must possess a valid driver’s license and access to a motor vehicle for business-related travel within the region.

Supervision
The Loan Officer works under the direct supervision of the Executive Director and may complete assignments independently or as part of a project team.

Compensation and Benefits
Salary and commission are based on experience. Benefits include health, dental, vision, and life insurance, retirement benefits, health savings account, parental leave, and paid time off.

Application Process
Applicants must submit a resume to Mo-Kan Regional Council, 224 North 7th Street, St. Joseph, MO 64501, or email kathy@mo-kan.org.

Mo-Kan Regional Council is an equal opportunity employer.

Position Title: Transportation Planner
Location: St. Joseph, MO
Classification: Full-time, Non-exempt
Salary: Negotiable based on experience
Immediate Supervisor: Executive Director

General Function
The Transportation Planner coordinates all planning and public engagement activities necessary to identify regional needs and prioritize those needs, and to update the Regional Transportation Plan annually through data gathering, analysis, and mapping of regional transportation assets.

The Transportation Planner organizes quarterly meetings of the Transportation Advisory Committee to aid in plan development and regional needs identification. This role works directly with MoDOT planning staff to inform communities of funding opportunities and develop the High Priority Unfunded Needs (HPUN) List and the Statewide Transportation Improvement Plan (STIP).

The Transportation Planner attends regular meetings with fellow Transportation Planners and MoDOT staff, as well as state and national transportation conferences.

Minimum Acceptable Qualifications

Education
A Master’s degree in planning or a related field is preferred. A Bachelor’s degree in planning or a related field is required.

Experience
At least four years of professional planning experience, or five years of experience working in a unit of local government (preferred).

Skills
A thorough knowledge of the principles and practices of community development planning is required. Strong verbal and written communication skills are required. A research background is required. Computer skills, including word processing, database management, document design, and presentation software, are required. Knowledge of planning-related software such as AutoCAD, ESRI, ArcGIS/ArcMAP, etc. is preferred. The ability to compile and analyze technical and statistical data is required. The ability to work with minimal supervision, meet deadlines, and work efficiently in non-routine situations is required. The ability to work effectively with the public and elected officials is required. The ability to develop knowledge of, respect for, and skills to engage with those of other cultures or backgrounds is required.

Certification
American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) certification is preferred.

Other Requirements
Occasional day travel is required and may include occasional overnight stays. The position requires attending occasional evening meetings.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Provides technical and advisory assistance to local governments and other public entities specializing in transportation planning. Develops and makes recommendations to local and regional government entities by directing planning activities with citizen advisory committees, elected or appointed officials, the general public, and professional planning staff. Facilitates the development of potential sources of contracts for Mo-Kan and its clients by preparing and presenting project proposals to local, state, and federal governments and other public entities. Represents Mo-Kan and its clients to other government jurisdictions on relevant matters by attending meetings, workshops, seminars, and other similar activities as assigned. Compiles and analyzes census data and other statistical data and prepares projections and reports based on data analysis. Contributes to a work environment that encourages knowledge of, respect for, and development of skills to engage with those of other cultures or backgrounds. Remains competent and current through self-directed professional reading, developing professional contact with colleagues, attending professional development courses, and attending training and/or courses required by the Executive Director. Contributes to the overall success of Mo-Kan and its clients by performing other essential duties and responsibilities as assigned.

Supervision
The Transportation Planner is supervised by the Executive Director.

Compensation and Benefits
The salary range for this position is dependent on the candidate’s education and experience. This position, as posted, is full-time, 32 hours per week, with a 4-day workweek (Monday–Thursday), with benefits. Benefits include health, life, vision, and dental insurance, paid time off, and participation in the Missouri Local Government Employees Retirement System (LAGERS) retirement plan.

Additional Information
Mo-Kan is a designated Regional Planning Commission (RPC) and Economic Development District (EDD), recognized by the states of Kansas and Missouri and the federal government, serving four counties in Northwest Missouri (Andrew, Buchanan, Clinton, DeKalb) and two counties in Northeast Kansas (Doniphan, Atchison). Mo-Kan is centered and headquartered in St. Joseph, Missouri.

Please visit www.mo-kan.org to learn more about the organization.

Mo-Kan Regional Council is an equal opportunity employer/program. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities. Missouri TTY users can dial 711.

To Apply
Applicants should email a resume, cover letter, and three professional references to Kathy Hahn at kathy@mo-kan.org.

Position Title: Community Development Planner
Location: St. Joseph, MO
Classification: Full-time, Non-exempt
Salary: Negotiable based on experience
Immediate Supervisor: Executive Director

General Function
The Community Development Planner manages community and regional planning programs and long-range planning for rural and small-town communities. This position provides technical and advisory assistance in areas including disaster recovery planning, hazard mitigation, comprehensive and land use planning, zoning regulations, transportation planning, contract management, site plan review, environmental review, community development, and economic development.

The Community Development Planner oversees plan preparation and related research, coordinates planning activities with elected officials, citizen advisory committees, and the general public, analyzes census and statistical data, prepares reports, assists with grant applications, administers awarded grants, drafts program budgets and project proposals, and may oversee grant fund distribution and monitoring.

Minimum Acceptable Qualifications

Education
A Master’s degree in planning or a related field is preferred. A Bachelor’s degree in planning or a related field is required.

Experience
This is not an entry-level position. At least four years of professional planning experience or five years of experience working in a unit of local government is preferred. Supervisory experience is highly preferred. Experience in planning or related fields is preferred, with consideration given to local or state government experience. Experience with Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and/or Economic Development Administration (EDA) funded programs is preferred.

Skills
Thorough knowledge of community development planning principles and practices. Strong verbal and written communication skills. Research background. Computer skills including word processing, database management, document design, and presentation software. Knowledge of AutoCAD, ESRI, ArcGIS/ArcMAP, or similar software is preferred. Ability to analyze technical and statistical data. Ability to work independently, meet deadlines, and function efficiently in non-routine situations. Ability to work effectively with the public and elected officials. Ability to engage respectfully and effectively with individuals of diverse cultures and backgrounds.

Certification
American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) certification is preferred.

Other Requirements
Occasional day travel within a 150-mile radius, including occasional overnight stays. Attendance at occasional evening meetings is required.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Provides technical and advisory assistance to local governments and public entities specializing in disaster recovery planning, hazard mitigation, land use planning, zoning regulations, transportation planning, community and economic development, rural/small-town planning, and regional planning. Develops recommendations by directing planning activities with advisory committees, elected officials, the public, and professional staff. Prepares and presents project proposals to local, state, and federal entities. Represents Mo-Kan and clients at meetings, workshops, and seminars. Compiles and analyzes census and statistical data and prepares projections and reports. Maintains professional competency through training and continuing education. Performs other assigned duties supporting Mo-Kan’s mission.

Supervision
The Community Development Planner is supervised by the Executive Director.

Compensation and Benefits
Salary dependent on education and experience. Full-time position with a 32-hour, four-day workweek (Monday–Thursday). Benefits include health, life, vision, and dental insurance, paid time off, and participation in the Missouri Local Government Employees Retirement System (LAGERS).

Additional Information
Mo-Kan is a designated Regional Planning Commission (RPC) and Economic Development District (EDD), serving four counties in Northwest Missouri and two counties in Northeast Kansas, headquartered in St. Joseph, Missouri.

To Apply
Applicants should email a resume, cover letter, and three professional references to Kathy Hahn at kathy@mo-kan.org.

SMCOG is posting for a Senior Planner (4+ years of experience) and Associate Planner (1+ year of experience). Up to two positions will be filled in any combination of the advertised postings. Either position will focus on comprehensive and land use planning.

About SMCOG (pronounced ‘sim-cog’):

The Southwest Missouri Council of Governments (SMCOG), housed within Missouri State University’s Center for Resource Planning and Management (CRPM), offers an exciting opportunity for talented professionals to join our team in a collaborative and innovative office environment. SMCOG staff are employees of Missouri State University and enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, including health, vision, dental, and life insurance, over 21% employer contributions to a retirement pension, and a tuition fee waiver for employees, spouses, and dependents. Employees enjoy paid holidays and two weeks paid time off for winter break along with a generous vacation and sick leave allowance. Located on the beautiful urban campus of Missouri State University in Springfield, Missouri, our team thrives in a dynamic workspace designed for professional growth and creativity.

SMCOG is a 10-county regional planning commission serving 88 units of local government, including Springfield, Missouri’s third-largest city, and Branson, a premier tourist destination in the Midwest. Nestled in the breathtaking Ozarks, our region offers unparalleled outdoor recreation opportunities, from hiking and biking trails to pristine lakes and scenic landscapes. Our communities pride themselves on a spirit of regional cooperation, and SMCOG is privileged to work with outstanding partners to advance sustainable growth and innovation.

We are deeply committed to professional development, fostering opportunities for staff to learn and excel in their fields. SMCOG’s internship program also plays a key role in training the next generation of planning professionals, providing meaningful experiences to students and early-career planners. This commitment extends to fostering a culture where all staff are encouraged to pursue their own education and professional development while also mentoring and supporting students from diverse backgrounds as they gain hands-on experience working on real-world projects.

Joining SMCOG means becoming part of a team dedicated to making a real difference in our region while enjoying the quality of life and natural beauty that only the Ozarks can offer.

-Jason Ray, AICP

Executive Director
Southwest Missouri Council of Governments

c/o MSU-CRPM, 901 S. National Ave., Springfield, MO 65897