Planning Manager

About the role

The City of Bothell is seeking a Planning Manager to lead its Planning Division. This position oversees current and long-range planning activities, provides technical leadership on complex development projects, and advances the City’s planning goals through effective policy implementation, development review, and customer-focused service.

Responsibilities

• Direct and administer the operations of the Planning Division, overseeing current planning (development review) and long-range planning functions as assigned.
• Ensures development review services are delivered efficiently, consistently, and in alignment with broader planning policy objectives.
• Demonstrate and foster the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, and accountability, contributing to a positive, collaborative, and high-performing work environment.
• Serve as the technical authority for complex, high-profile, and sensitive development proposals, providing guidance on code interpretation, approval conditions, and regulatory decision-making.
• Identify policy gaps, procedural inefficiencies, and code-related issues through the development review process, leading targeted updates to improve clarity, consistency, and effectiveness.
• Communicate complex planning, development, and regulatory matters effectively to diverse audiences, including staff, applicants, stakeholders, elected officials, and the public.
• Promote a responsive, solution-oriented approach to customer service while ensuring compliance with applicable regulations, City policies, and established procedures.

Requirements

• Successful candidate must communicate clearly, respectfully, and professionally across a variety of settings.
• Provide clear direction, foster accountability, develop staff, and create a positive, collaborative, and high-performing work environment.
• Maintain objectivity and sound judgment when analyzing complex information.
• Contribute to group success by sharing knowledge, resources, and responsibility.
• Demonstrate honesty and transparency in all actions and communications.
• Adapt to change with flexibility and a commitment to inclusive practices.
• Uphold high standards of service in support of organizational and community goals.

Qualifications

• A Master’s degree in Urban Planning, Public Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressively responsible experience in urban planning, land use management, or a related field.
• Experience in managing and supervising a team of planners and staff.
• Experience in developing and implementing comprehensive plans and policies.
• Experience in reviewing and interpreting local and state zoning codes and ordinances.
• Experience in public speaking and presenting to diverse audiences.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Skills

• Strong project management skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
• Knowledge of GIS software.
• Experience with public engagement and outreach.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities.

Benefits

The City of Bothell offers a competitive benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision coverage for you and your family, life and disability insurance, state pension membership, and deferred compensation for retirement. Additionally, the City provides ample time off, including 11 paid holidays and 2 personal holidays, and a robust employee wellness program.

Pay

The salary range for this position is $80,000 - $100,000 annually, commensurate with experience.

Schedule

The typical schedule for this position is a 5/8s schedule, with a preferred start time of 8:00 am. The initial schedule may be onsite for up to the first six months, with the potential opportunity to transition to a hybrid schedule.

Contact Information

To read the full job description and review the minimum qualifications, click here. For questions or additional information, please contact the Human Resources Help Desk at hrhelpdesk@bothellwa.gov.