Senior Planner; Code Development

The City of Edmonds Planning and Development Department is seeking a Senior Planner with demonstrated expertise in drafting and modernizing municipal development codes. The ideal candidate has significant experience researching, writing, and implementing Unified Development Codes and form‑based code approaches, and a strong background in complex land‑use regulations, zoning ordinances, and development standards to support the City’s ongoing code update projects and long‑range planning initiatives.

Under general direction, the Senior Planner serves as lead planner while performing highly complex professional planning responsibilities and tasks for the City. The role includes staff liaison to boards and commissions, providing information to the public on land and construction issues, coordinating GIS and mapping activities, conducting planning reviews, and providing work direction and leadership to Planners and support staff on assigned projects.

• Serves as senior or lead planner in performing complex planning responsibilities and provides work direction to planners and support staff.
• Acts as staff liaison to the Planning Board, Architectural Design Board and/or Hearing Examiner.
• Prepares detailed reports, public notices, verifies zoning code compliance and conducts various planning reviews.
• Coordinates code requirements with other divisions and departments, provides staff support at public hearings, makes public presentations, conducts site inspections and performs related duties.
• Provides information to the public regarding land and construction issues, coordinates GIS/mapping activities, prepares and updates maps, graphics and public information materials, and maintains GIS databases.
• Provides technical assistance in processing planning permits for current applications and in developing short and long‑range plans for the City of Edmonds.
• Evaluates and analyzes plans to estimate projected population and employment growth.
• Prepares and maintains a variety of records and reviews related to assigned activities.
• Reviews and recommends City codes or policy changes as appropriate based on experience with daily operations and planning.
• Interprets, communicates, exchanges information, and coordinates activities with governmental agencies and other cities regarding projects affecting the City and surrounding area.
• Supervises, coaches, trains and motivates staff as assigned and coordinates staff training.

• Bachelor’s Degree in Urban, Regional, or Municipal Planning, Geography, or related field and at least five years of planning experience, including leading projects and staff, policy and code review, analysis, evaluation, and preparation of detailed reports and presentations. The position requires a minimum of two years of supervisory responsibility, preferably in a municipal planning environment.
• An equivalent combination of education, training and experience that allows the incumbent to perform the essential functions may also be considered.

• Valid driver’s license at time of hire and a driving record acceptable to the City’s insurance requirements. Out‑of‑state candidates must obtain a Washington State driver’s license within 30 days of moving to Washington.
• Criminal background check is required after a verbal offer of employment. Criminal history is reviewed on a case‑by‑case basis and is not an automatic disqualifier.

• Indoor, outdoor, and office environments.
• Driving a vehicle to work.

• Hearing, speaking, or otherwise communicating with people in person and by phone.
• Reading and understanding a variety of materials.
• Operating a computer and other office equipment.
• Walking or moving and ascending/descending stairs during site visits.

• Chemicals, fumes or gases associated with utility systems and projects.
• Contact with angry or dissatisfied customers.