SENIOR PLANNER

The City of Gastonia is seeking a Senior Planner to perform complex urban and regional planning work. Responsibilities include project-level planning, land use regulation, and public engagement. The role involves reviewing development proposals, drafting ordinances, and coordinating with various stakeholders. The position requires a Bachelor’s degree in Urban Planning or related field, with at least 3 years of experience. The salary range is $71,200 - $90,613.
Performs complex professional work within the Planning Department, with a focus on project-level urban and regional planning, comprehensive and small area planning, land use planning, development regulation, and graphic/design planning. This position also ensures that the public and other stakeholders have a clear understanding of planning processes and their impact on the City’s development. Work is performed under the supervision of the Assistant Planning Director or Planning Director.

Hiring Range for this position: $71,200 - $90,613 based on qualifications
The essential functions listed below are those that represent the majority of the time spent working in this class. Management may assign additional functions related to the type of work of the class as necessary. Advanced Planning, Code Development, and Regulatory ReviewPerforms advanced planning work to guide and regulate the city’s growth and developmentReviews complex, large-scale development proposals for compliance and zoning, environmental, land use, and design regulations; issue corrections, approves plans, and certifies compliance through inspectionsDrafts and updates land use and development ordinances to align with the City’s Comprehensive Plan and policy actionProvides technical expertise in long-range planning, zoning administration, site plan review, and other specialized planning projectsTechnical Assistance, Project Management, and Interpretation Coordinates with developers, engineers, architects, contractors, residents, and elected officials to interpret and apply City plans, policies, and regulationsParticipates in and facilitates interdepartmental development review teams, resolving conflicts between agencies and ensuring project alignment with City standardsAdvises on complex planning and regulatory issues, serving as a key resource for problem-solving and decision-makingPublic Engagement, Communications, and Board SupportPrepares and presents detailed staff reports, analyses, and recommendations on zoning and land use matters, including rezoning, variances, subdivisions, and appealsLeads or contributes to public outreach and information efforts related to departmental activities, policies, and planning initiativesServes as liaison to appointed boards and community organizations, providing guidance and support during meetings and public hearingsLeadership, Collaboration, and Professional RepresentationProvides mentorship and guidance to junior staff and contributes to team-based planning projects Demonstrates strong leadership and consensus-building skills while working collaboratively with stakeholders across the public and private sectorsRepresents the department effectively through professional oral, written, and graphic communicative meansMaintains effective working relationships with internal staff, municipal leaders, external agencies, and the public Technical Proficiency and Analytical SkillsApplies advanced knowledge of planning principles, urban design, and community developmentUtilizes mapping, charting, and complex graphic tools to convey planning conceptsConducts research and applies statistical analysis to inform planning decisions and recommendations

MINIMUM EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:Bachelor’s degree in Urban Planning, Regional Planning, or a related field with minimum of 3 years of experience. Master’s degree preferred Hold AICP certification or pass AICP test within 1 year of employment An equivalent combination of education and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities may be considered.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
Physical demands refer to the requirements for physical exertion and coordination of limb and body movement.
The Senior Planner position requires a combination of office and fieldwork. Physical activities include stooping, kneeling, crouching, reaching, standing for extended periods, walking long distances, and occasional lifting of objects up to 20 pounds. The role also involves frequent use of hands and fingers for typing, grasping, and other repetitive motions.
Effective verbal communication and active listening are essential, as is the ability to perceive sounds at normal speech levels. Visual acuity is required for reading, data analysis, computer work, and inspection of documents or small parts.
This position is classified as Light Work and is typically performed in an office environment with no substantial exposure to adverse conditions.

UNAVOIDABLE HAZARDS (WORK ENVIRONMENT):
Unavoidable hazards refer to job conditions that may lead to injury or health hazards even though precautions have been taken.None.
SPECIAL CERTIFICATIONS AND LICENSES:Valid driver’s license
AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT COMPLIANCE
The City of Gastonia is an Equal Opportunity Employer. ADA requires the City to provide reasonable accommodations to qualified persons with disabilities. Prospective and current employees are encouraged to discuss ADA accommodations with management.

STANDARD CLAUSES
May be required to work nights, weekends, holidays and emergencies (man-made or natural) to meet the business needs of the City of Gastonia.
This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of essential functions and responsibilities that are required of an employee for this job. Other duties, responsibilities, and activities may change or be assigned at any time with or without notice.

ESSENTIAL SAFETY FUNCTIONS
It is the responsibility of each employee to comply with established policies, procedures and safe work practices. Each employee must follow safety training and instructions provided by their supervisor. Each employee must also properly wear and maintain all personal protective equipment required for their job. Finally, each employee must immediately report any unsafe work practices or unsafe conditions as well as any on-the-job injury or illnesses.
Every manager/supervisor is responsible for enforcing all safety rules and regulations. In addition, they are responsible for ensuring that a safe work environment is maintained, safe work practices are followed, and employees are properly trained.


Drug screening and criminal background checks are required.The City of Gastonia is committed to creating and maintaining a work environment that is inclusive, equitable and welcoming. We value diversity and promise to honor your experiences, perspective and unique identity. The City of Gastonia is an Equal Opportunity Employer – M/F/H