Senior Planner

Under general direction, performs professional planning work and assists the Development Services Director with administrative duties. May supervise office staff and/or subordinate planners.

Responsibilities

• Serves as a lead planner for the City of Kalispell, assigning, coordinating, and reviewing planning activities and personnel in planning projects.
• Involved in long-range, comprehensive, and neighborhood planning efforts or short-term project and application review.
• Oversees and supervises staff in related programs such as floodplain development, zoning administration, subdivision review, grant preparation, environmental assessment, and GIS development.
• Attends planning board meetings, city council meetings, and other local, state, and federal meetings to provide recommendations or direct processes related to planning functions.
• Assists in drafting applications for grants and reviews federally assisted programs.
• Meets with civic groups and individuals to explain policies, programs, and procedures, and to supply requested information.
• Leads community engagement efforts on a range of planning issues.
• Represents the City on various boards and committees through active participation and reporting.
• Prepares for and attends meetings, trainings, and educational opportunities.
• Acts for the Director in their absence.
• Other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree with major course work in urban/regional planning, public/business administration, community development, economics, or related field.
• Minimum of four (4) years of progressively related experience in municipal or private sector planning, or a master’s degree in planning or related field and two (2) years of professional experience in planning.
• American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) preferred.
• Must possess a valid State driver's license or have the ability to obtain one at time of hire.

Skills

• Thorough knowledge of the principles, practices, and methodologies of urban planning and zoning.
• Knowledge of State and local laws and regulations affecting planning and subdivisions.
• Knowledge of computers including Microsoft and GIS software.
• Ability to promote safe work practices and ensure compliance with City safety policies.
• Skilled in reviewing complex planning and zoning projects.
• Skilled in teaching, mentoring, and motivating employees through sharing knowledge and information.
• Ability to plan and manage workload to meet objectives and deadlines.
• Ability to deliver engaging and focused oral presentations.
• Ability to develop policy recommendations based on informed research and compile comprehensive reports.
• Ability to understand and establish statistical data and graphic materials.
• Ability to assist in developing and implementing programs to improve departmental and City-wide efficiency.
• Ability to manage multiple assignments and priorities effectively.
• Ability to perform job duties in compliance with City rules and regulations.
• Ability to be accountable and responsible for work assignments in the absence of a supervisor.
• Ability to prepare accurate and timely written documents such as letters, reports, and memos.
• Ability to conduct and oversee federal grant programs and applications.
• Ability to establish positive working relationships with community organizations, agencies, City management, staff, and the public.

Physical Demands

• Frequently required to sit and talk or hear.
• Occasionally required to walk; use hands to handle objects, tools, or controls; and reach with hands and arms.
• Must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.
• Specific vision abilities required include close vision and the ability to adjust focus.

Work Environment

• The noise level in the work environment is moderate.

Benefits

• 100% paid health insurance for employee & reduced rates for dependents.
• State retirement plan.
• 3 weeks’ vacation.
• Paid sick leave.
• 10 State and Federal holidays.
• May participate in a VEBA program.

Pay

$87,959 - $112,595