Planning Manager

Target Hiring Range: $97,739.

Under general direction of the Director of Community Services, the Planning Manager leads and manages the City’s planning activities including current and long‑range planning, development review, urban design, and related ordinances and policies. This position ensures alignment with the City’s comprehensive plan, zoning regulations, and development standards. The Planning Manager supervises professional planning staff and coordinates with other departments, boards, and the public to ensure quality growth and development in the City of Farmers Branch.

• Manages and supervises day‑to‑day operations of the Planning Division including current and long‑range planning, and land use analysis.
• Coordinates with other departments on infrastructure, transportation, housing and environmental planning projects.
• Oversees updates and implementation of the Comprehensive Plan, zoning and subdivision ordinances, and development related policies.
• Reviews and evaluates development proposals, zoning requests, site plans, and plats to ensure compliance with the Comprehensive Plan, the Zoning and Subdivision Ordinances.
• Provides professional guidance to developers, architects, consultants, and residents regarding the development process and maintains accurate documentation and response records for all interactions.
• Leads the development of planning studies, land use assessments, and ordinance amendments.
• Prepares and presents reports and recommendations to the Planning and Zoning Commission, Zoning Board of Adjustment, and City Council.
• Assists in preparing and managing division budget, reviews and approves expenditures in accordance with the division’s adopted budget.
• Supervises and mentors planning staff, including work planning, performance reviews, and professional development.
• Maintains regular and punctual attendance.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

• Bachelor’s degree in planning, urban planning, architecture, public administration, or a related field.
• Five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in municipal planning, with two (2) years of supervisory experience.
• Master’s degree in planning or a related discipline, preferred.
• Thorough knowledge of urban planning principles, zoning, subdivision regulations, and land use law.
• Advanced analytical and problem‑solving skills in evaluating complex planning and zoning issues.
• Strong project management skills and experience with project management methodologies, ability to establish and manage project schedules and balance multiple projects.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including public presentation, particularly with boards, commissions, city councils and other governing bodies.
• Ability to lead, mentor, and manage professional staff in a collaborative team environment.
• Ability to build strong working relationships with internal departments, elected officials, community members, and development stakeholders.
• Proficiency in GIS, Microsoft Office Suite, and permitting/planning software.

• Attendance of Planning and Zoning Commission, Zoning Board of Adjustments, City Council, and other required evening meetings.

• Valid driver's license with good driving record and ability to maintain while employed.
• American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP), preferred.