Senior Planner - Community Development

The Town of Clarkdale, incorporated in 1957, operates under the council-manager form of government and employs approximately 58 staff. The Town provides a range of municipal services including planning, permitting, zoning, economic development, public safety, utilities, and public works, supported by financial, human resources, IT, and emergency management functions.

About the role

Under the guidance of the Assistant Town Manager/Community Development Director, this position leads the administration, research, and analysis of planning, zoning, subdivision, design review, and land use development issues. The role involves processing General Plan amendments, zoning and site plan applications, and preparing reports and recommendations for the Planning Commission, Design Review Board, and Town Council. Coordination with other Town departments on development and zoning matters is essential.

Responsibilities

• Receive and review zoning, development, variance, and subdivision requests.
• Prepare staff reports for boards, commissions, and Town Council work sessions and public hearings, and present findings.
• Lead the preparation and publication of agendas, statutory notifications, and Board/Commission packets.
• Answer questions and provide information to the public, staff, and outside agencies regarding zoning, land use, and the General Plan.
• Prepare studies and reports on planning, zoning, and land use issues.
• Draft text amendments and conduct public hearings as required by Arizona Revised Statutes and Town procedures.
• Provide technical assistance and recommendations to developers, engineers, architects, and the public.
• Work directly with the Community Development Director to manage projects, attend meetings, and follow up with applicants, developers, and outside agency representatives.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Urban Planning, Geography, Architecture, or a closely related field with a minimum of two (2) years of full-time experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Valid driver’s license with the ability to transfer an out-of-state license to Arizona immediately; must maintain an acceptable driving record.
• AICP certification is a plus.

Skills

• Knowledge of the principles and practices of community planning and urban design.
• Ability to conduct planning studies and formulate recommendations based on thorough analysis.
• Ability to maintain effective working relationships with employees, outside agencies, developers, Town Council, appointed Boards and Commissions, and the public.
• Knowledge and ability to apply Arizona Revised Statutes to planning issues for conformance to state law.
• Ability to meet and work under prescribed deadlines.
• Familiarity with ArcView GIS and/or Adobe publication software.
• Knowledge and familiarity with internet search engines, sites, and research tools.
• Ability to work independently with limited supervision.

Physical Requirements

• Vision sufficient to read plans, diagrams, regulations, computer screens, and documents.
• Hearing sufficient to hear conversations in person and over the telephone.
• Speech sufficient to be understood in person, in front of groups, in meetings, and over the telephone.
• Mobility sufficient to safely work in various indoor and outdoor environments.
• Dexterity sufficient to safely operate office equipment, including computers.
• Strength sufficient to lift, carry, and move up to 30 pounds.
• Endurance sufficient to sit, walk, and stand for extended periods and maintain efficiency throughout the work shift.

Working Conditions

• Work is generally performed in an inside office environment, though outdoor work may be required.
• May require travel throughout the Town for project management, meetings, or training.
• Noise levels vary but are typical of an office environment; outdoor work may involve loud noise.
• May require walking over uneven flooring or outdoor terrain.
• May require working outside normally scheduled hours or reporting to specific locations for training or meetings.
• Frequent sitting, talking, hearing, and use of hands to handle objects, tools, or controls.

Pay

The salary range for this position is $52,441 – $83,907. Candidates with experience may start at the midpoint of $68,173.

Benefits

This is an FLSA-exempt, full-time position with full benefits.