Senior Planner

Senior Planner

Department:
Development Services

Union:
Non-Union

Salary: $87,959 - $112,595 DOQ

Benefits: 100% paid health insurance for employee & reduced rates for dependents. State retirement plan, 3-weeks' vacation, paid sick leave, 10 State and Federal holidays. This position may be participating in a VEBA program.

FLSA Status:
Exempt

Date:
July 27, 2026

General Purpose & Supervision Received:

Under general direction performs professional planning work, assists the Development Services Director with administrative duties as required and exercises general supervision of section personnel. Incumbents in this classification may work in a long range and/or current planning section.

Supervision Received:

Works under general supervision of the Development Services Director.

Supervision Exercised:

May supervise office staff and/or subordinate planners.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

a. The following duties are typical for this classification. These are not to be construed as exclusive or all-inclusive. Other duties may be required and assigned.

b.

Note:

It is expected that every employee should be fully prepared on time, every day that they are scheduled to work. We expect employees to strive for perfect attendance.

Planning: 90%

c. Serves as a lead planner for the City of Kalispell.

d. Assigns, coordinates and reviews the planning activities and personnel in planning projects of jurisdiction.

e. May be involved in either or both the development of long range, comprehensive and neighborhood planning efforts or in short term project and application review.

f. May oversee and supervise staff in related programs such as floodplain development, zoning administration, subdivision review, grant preparation, environmental assessment preparation and review and GIS development.

g. Attends planning board meetings, city council meetings and other advisory, regulatory and informational local, state and federal meetings to disseminate information, provide recommendations or direct processes relative to planning functions, projects or applications and offer professional and technical assistance in planning matters.

h. Assists in drafting applications for grants, reviews and prepares comments on federally assisted programs.

i. Meets with civic groups and individuals to explain policies, programs and procedures and to supply information requested.

j. Leads community engagement efforts on a range of planning issues.

k. Represents the City on various boards and committees through active participation and accurate reporting on activities and events involving the City.

l. Prepares for and attends meetings and orientations, trainings and other educational opportunities.

Other: 10%

m. Acts for the Director in his absence.

n. Other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications (Education and Experience):

a. Bachelor's Degree with major course work in urban/regional planning, public/business administration, community development, economics, or related field required; and

b. Minimum of four (4) years of progressively related experience in municipal or private sector planning, or master's degree in planning or related field and two (2) years of professional experience in planning;

American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) preferred;

You must possess a valid State driver's license or have the ability to obtain one at time of hire.

Knowledge,

Skills and Abilities

(KSA's)

a. Thorough knowledge of the principles, practices, and methodologies of urban planning and zoning;

b. Knowledge of State and local laws and regulations affecting planning and subdivisions;

c. Knowledge of computers including Microsoft and GIS software;

Knowledge and ability to promote safe work practices and ensure compliance with City safety policies;

Skilled in reviewing complex planning and zoning projects;

Skilled in operating the listed tools and equipment;

Skilled in teaching, mentoring and motivation to other employees within the organization through the sharing of knowledge, skills and information;

Ability to plan and manage Development Services Department workload so that quality work meets stated objective and deadlines and participates in projects and activities to improve the function of the entire organization;

Ability to deliver engaging and focused oral presentations while addressing the subject matter accurately and thoroughly in accordance with City policies and procedures;

Ability to develop policy recommendations based upon informed research and relevant issues and compile comprehensive reports;

Ability to understand and establish statistical data and graphic materials;

Ability to assist fellow employees with developing and implementing programs and objectives to improve departmental and City-wide efficiency;

Ability to effectively manage multiple assignments and priorities to ensure the fulfillment of projects, tasks and responsibilities;

Ability to perform all job duties in compliance with the established rules and regulations and the City of Kalispell;

Ability to be accountable and…