Overview

Union Square Partnership (USP) is the leading advocate for the Union Square neighborhood in Manhattan. The organization includes two 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations including a local development corporation and Manhattan’s first business improvement district. USP was founded more than 45 years ago to promote the economic and cultural vitality of the neighborhood. USP provides sanitation, public safety, business and economic development, and marketing services, hosts a wide range of community events, and invests in the beautification and maintenance of Union Square Park. The organization is overseen by the Executive Director and its Board of Directors made up of Union Square’s leading civic leaders from its corporate sector, academic and cultural institutions, and the residential community. It has an executive staff of eight reporting to the Executive Director and a combined annual operating budget of $5 million.

Who you are…

  • A placemaking enthusiast who is knowledgeable about strategies and tactics for analyzing and improving the urban public realm.
  • Someone passionate about urban affairs and interested in the small-scale, hands-on work of community building.
  • A data geek with a knack for spreadsheets and infographics.
  • A business advocate who embraces development and property leasing as one of several fundamental instruments for neighborhood enhancement.

As Planning Associate, you will be responsible for…

Reporting to the Director of Planning, focusing on planning and implementing programs and projects to enhance the district’s streetscape; promoting retail and commercial activity; developing metrics and conducting studies to measure the neighborhood’s overall economic health; facilitating connections between Union Square’s businesses, residents, and other area resources.

Your day-to-day tasks will involve…

  • Supporting the Director of Planning and Executive Director on efforts related to the USQNext District Vision Plan projects, including coordination with external planning and design partners, outreach with community partners and stakeholders, and managing project implementation in Union Square’s streets, park spaces, and public plazas.
  • Managing district data resources, including visitor counts, demographics, storefront and land use trends, and other local statistics.
  • Producing publications on relevant economic trends and data, including the quarterly Biz & Broker newsletter, Annual Commercial Market Report, and Pedestrian Activity Report.
  • Coordinating networking opportunities, such as business forums, and building relationships with real estate brokers, developers, and property owners to foster the area’s economic development and growth.
  • Aiding in attracting new tenants and businesses to the area through retail outreach, conference participation, networking, on-site tours, etc.

Your other duties will include…

  • Attend hearings and meetings, such as with Community Boards, City Council, or other elected officials, and track projects, proposals, and legislation affecting the district.
  • Prepare, distribute, and analyze the Annual Community Opinion Survey.
  • Track and analyze data on quality-of-life issues, ground floor occupancy, retail vacancies, and conditions of park and streetscape elements.
  • Track use and replacement needs of USP-maintained street furnishings, including bistro tables and chairs, umbrellas, granite blocks, barricades, and planters.
  • Develop clear, and visually compelling reports and presentations communicating USP’s work.
  • Work with USP Marketing + Engagement staff to develop content for USP’s varied marketing channels, including a monthly newsletter, website, blog, and social media.
  • Craft and/or review Requests for Proposals (RFPs), write specifications for contracts and work with staff internally to manage consultants and contractors. Ensure that written specifications are fulfilled and oversee some contracts directly as needed.
  • Hire and supervise graduate and undergraduate interns on an as-needed basis.

Who are we looking for…

  • Exceptional oral + written communications skills, and meticulous attention to detail.
  • Proven track record of setting and exceeding goals; the ability to consistently make sound decisions based upon analysis, experience, and strategic thinking.
  • A team player with the ability to translate one’s work for the benefit and understanding of others, especially the marketing team, so they can highlight the organization’s exceptional work and impact.
  • Highly organized; ability to prioritize and juggle multiple projects at once while navigating a fast-paced, demanding environment.

What you’ll need to excel in this position…

  • A love of Union Square and an understanding of the roles BIDs and LDCs play in assisting local businesses and property owners.
  • Undergraduate degree required; graduate degree in urban planning, economics, real estate, non-profit or business administration preferred.
  • 3-5 years of full-time experience in urban planning, economic development, nonprofit management, or related field preferred. Prior role in NYC government and/or BIDs is a plus.
  • Demonstrated aptitude with land use and/or statistical analysis such as a planning study, land use plan, transportation plan, public life study, or community survey.
  • Fluency in Microsoft Excel and Adobe Creative Suite (InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop) required. Proficiency in ArcGIS, QGIS, and/or AutoCAD or Rhino is a plus.

What’s it like to work at USP?

  • We are a dynamic team of public space management and community building professionals with a deep love and appreciation for the history and potential of the Union Square-14th Street district.
  • Our culture is built on transparency and all members of the executive team are welcome at all board and committee meetings so that everyone has a deeper understanding of how decisions are made – and your input is always welcome!
  • We care about your professional development and strongly encourage staff with over six months of service to apply for several different leadership programs.
  • We offer generous medical, dental, and vision insurance because we believe you shouldn’t have to stress about your health.
  • Your work family is important, but yours at home matters most. That’s why we offer fully paid maternity and paternity leave.
  • Everyone needs their R&R, and we strongly encourage every member of the team to take their annual leave time and support you in “disconnecting” while away.