Associate Planner

Starting salary: $73,440 – $88,000 DOQ. Salary range: $73,440 – $102,635.

About the role

The City of Des Plaines is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Associate Planner to support the City’s planning, zoning, and community development initiatives. This role is ideal for an early-career planning professional interested in reviewing development projects, supporting zoning administration, and working collaboratively with internal departments, developers, and the public to advance the City’s planning goals.

Responsibilities

• Review development plans, proposals, and permits for zoning compliance
• Prepare staff reports and present at Planning and Zoning Board hearings
• Conduct pre-application meetings with residents, architects, and developers
• Assist with zoning verifications, violations, service requests, and disputes
• Explain zoning regulations and planning processes to the public
• Support updates to the Zoning Ordinance and Subdivision Code
• Assist with land use planning studies, including Comprehensive Plan and zoning changes

Requirements

Education & Experience

• Coursework toward a bachelor’s degree in urban planning or a related field required
• Bachelor’s degree and municipal planning experience preferred

Skills & Knowledge

• Knowledge of planning, zoning, and land development principles
• Familiarity with zoning and subdivision procedures
• Experience with research, technical writing, and planning studies
• Working knowledge of GIS
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines
• Professional, customer-focused approach when working with the public

Benefits

This position offers a comprehensive benefits package, including:

• Medical, dental, and optical insurance with low deductibles, low premiums, and low overall cost
• Generous paid vacation, personal, and sick leave
• Paid holidays
• Employer-paid life insurance
• Participation in the Illinois Municipal Employee Retirement System (IMRF)