Senior Planner

Senior Planner

Shape the future of our vibrant mountain communities while managing high-impact, complex land-use initiatives! The Community Development Dept at Eagle County Government was just approved to hire 2 additional collaborative, forward-thinking Senior Planners to join our dedicated team. If you thrive in a dynamic, growth-minded environment and excel at guiding projects from vision to reality, this is your opportunity to build a better Eagle County for all.

The Senior Planner manages high-priority, complex land use applications and building permits while supporting strategic long-range planning initiatives. Operating with a high degree of independence and professional judgment, the ideal candidate brings an open, collaborative communication style to team projects and lends a focus to exemplary public service.

Salary Range: $81,926-$118,792. $5000 bonus: $2500 sign-on bonus, paid out on employee's first paycheck & up to $2500 retention bonus, paid out after 6 months of employment, based on attendance and performance.

Applicants are encouraged to apply by Sept 23rd; however, the job will be posted until filled.

Why You'll Love Working With Us:

• Balance Work with Mountain Living: We believe exceptional public service starts with well-supported employees. Enjoy a supportive schedule that gives you time to hit the trails, ski world-class slopes, and soak in everything Colorado's high country has to offer.
• Guaranteed Housing Option: 1bd/1ba (brand new) apartments at Parkside Apartments in Edwards - $1750/month.
• A Collaborative, High-Trust Culture: We value growth mindsets, open communication, and cross-departmental teamwork. You'll have the autonomy to exercise your professional judgment alongside colleagues who support your professional development.
• Continuous Growth & Mentorship: Whether you are leading complex land-use initiatives, mentoring junior staff, or pursuing AICP credentials, we invest in your career advancement every step of the way.
• Unbeatable Benefits for Full-time:
• Retirement: 8% dollar-for-dollar employer match.
• Healthcare: Comprehensive medical coverage as low as $85/month for employees.
• Paid Time Off: 15 paid holidays + starting at 12 PTO days + medical leave.
• Perks & Growth: Free tuition at Colorado Mountain College, tool allowances/resources, career progression, bilingual pay incentives, wellness cash rewards, and local bus passes.

Key Responsibilities

• Current Planning & Project Management: Manage a portfolio of 10+ active, high-complexity land-use files. Review applications against Eagle County regulations, state statutes, and federal laws.
• Analysis & Public Presentation: Research site data, analyze environmental impacts, and prepare clear, high-quality staff reports, studies, and GIS graphics. Present recommendations to county boards and officials.
• Public Service & Collaboration: Support "Planner of the Day" duties, lead pre-application meetings, and collaborate with applicants, municipalities, non-profits, and regional partners to align projects with the Eagle County Comprehensive Plan.
• Process Leadership: Facilitate weekly Development Review Team meetings, streamline building permit processes, handle public records in Ener Gov, and draft text amendments to land use regulations.
• Mentorship & Strategic Projects: Coach junior planners and support long-range planning initiatives, consultant management, and special projects as needed.

Qualifications & Requirements

• Education: Bachelor's degree in Urban/Regional Planning or a related field (Master's preferred and counts toward 2 years of experience).
• Experience: Minimum 6 years of related planning experience (or equivalent combination). At least 1 year of proven experience managing and presenting complex, politically sensitive land-use files (commercial, mixed-use, or code writing). Local government experience preferred.
• Certifications: Valid driver's license required. AICP certification preferred.
• Technical Proficiency: Experience with Google Workspace, MS Office, and Adobe Acrobat. Familiarity with GIS, document management (Laserfiche), and permitting software (Ener Gov) is a plus.
• Key Skills: Exceptional communication, consensus-building, and conflict-resolution abilities. Strong diplomatic and analytical skills. Bilingual (English/Spanish) abilities are desirable.

Culture & Benefits

Working in local government is one of the best career paths in the mountains. 'Your Career will Soar with Eagle County'. Get started with us today!

• Why is Eagle County recognized as a Best…