City Planner

The City of Junction City, KS, is hiring a City Planner to oversee comprehensive planning, zoning regulations, and land use policies. Responsibilities include preparing planning documents, reviewing development proposals, conducting research, and facilitating community engagement. Candidates should have a degree in urban planning or related field, with 2–5 years of experience. Proficiency in GIS and planning software is required. The position involves office work and occasional fieldwork.
The City of Junction City is seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented City Planner to support the development and implementation of comprehensive planning initiatives, zoning regulations, and land use policies. This position plays a key role in shaping the physical, social, and economic future of the city by ensuring well-coordinated and sustainable development practices. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in urban planning, land use analysis, and community engagement.
• Prepare and update comprehensive plans, zoning ordinances, land use maps, and related planning documents.
• Review development proposals, site plans, subdivision plats, and rezoning applications for compliance with city codes and long-term planning goals.
• Conduct research and analysis on demographic, economic, environmental, and housing trends to inform policy recommendations.
• Provide technical assistance and professional planning advice to city officials, staff, developers, and the general public.
• Present findings and recommendations to planning commissions, city council, zoning boards, and other governing bodies.
• Facilitate community engagement efforts, including public meetings, workshops, and surveys to gather input and build consensus.
• Collaborate with engineers, architects, and other professionals to guide development projects and infrastructure planning.
• Assist in the administration and enforcement of zoning and development regulations.
• Monitor and interpret state and federal legislation and regulations related to land use and planning.
• Maintain accurate records and documentation of planning activities, applications, and decisions.
• Bachelor’s degree in urban planning, Geography, Public Administration, Architecture, or a related field (master’s degree preferred).
• Minimum of 2–5 years of professional planning experience, preferably in a municipal or regional government setting.
• AICP certification or eligibility to be certified within 2 years of employment is preferred.
• Strong knowledge of principles and practices of urban planning, land use regulation, and community development.
• Familiarity with zoning codes, subdivision regulations, environmental review, and public policy.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including public presentation and report-writing abilities.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Proficient in GIS, Microsoft Office, and planning software (e.g., AutoCAD, SketchUp, Adobe Creative Suite is a plus).
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Will be required to pass a drug test and background check

Work Environment and Physical Demands:
• Typical office environment with occasional fieldwork required.
• Attendance at evening meetings or public hearings may be necessary.

Disclaimer
This description should not be interpreted as all-inclusive. It is intended to identify the major responsibilities and requirements of this job. The incumbents may be requested to perform job-related responsibilities and tasks other than those stated in this specification. The job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and the employee and is subject to change by the employer as the needs of the employer and requirements of the job change.