JOB DESCRIPTION

Overview

Botetourt County's Planning & Zoning Office is seeking a motivated and collaborative planning professional to join our team. This single posting will be filled as Planner I or Planner II depending on the successful candidate's qualifications and experience.

This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to the County's growth and future, with work spanning land-use planning, development review, transportation, zoning, and community engagement.

Key Responsibilities (Both Levels)

• Planning & Policy – Lead or assist in preparing and updating studies, plans, ordinances, and recommendations related to land use, zoning, and comprehensive or strategic planning.
• Development Review – Review and process rezonings, special use permits, subdivisions, site plans, and other applications for compliance with County codes and the Comprehensive Plan. Draft clear staff comments and recommendations for applicants and decision-makers.
• Data & Mapping – Maintain planning databases and GIS shapefiles; prepare reports, maps, and graphic materials to support analysis, staff reports, and presentations.
• Public Service & Outreach – Answer planning and zoning inquiries from residents, developers, and partner agencies; provide technical support to the Planning Commission; collaborate with community groups to promote land-use practices consistent with County priorities.
• Project Monitoring & Grants – Track residential and commercial development activity; research and monitor planning-related grant or funding opportunities.
• Meetings & Presentations – Present findings at public hearings, workshops, and evening meetings (typically two per month).
• Professional Development – Attend conferences and trainings to remain current in planning practices, land-conservation tools, and related topics.
• Other Duties – Perform additional planning and zoning responsibilities as assigned.

Planner I – Entry Level

Nature of Work
An entry-level professional planning role focused on applying planning principles under general supervision.

Typical Assignments

• Review routine site plans, minor subdivisions, and permits for zoning compliance.
• Prepare introductory staff reports and presentations.
• Provide customer service at the planning counter, by phone, and by email.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Urban or Regional Planning, Geography, Public Administration, or related field.
• Up to two years of professional planning experience (internships and graduate assistantships accepted).
• Familiarity with planning concepts, zoning regulations, and site plan review.
• Working knowledge of ArcGIS and Microsoft Office; ability to learn Bluebeam and related plan review tools.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Planner II – Experienced

Nature of Work
A professional planning position requiring independent project management, technical expertise, and policy analysis.

Typical Assignments

• Manage complex development proposals, major subdivision reviews, and transportation planning projects.
• Lead components of comprehensive plan updates and policy studies.
• Coordinate interdepartmental and interagency planning projects.
• Mentor junior staff and provide technical guidance.
• Prepare and deliver presentations to elected officials, commissions, and community groups.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Urban/Regional Planning or related field; Master's degree preferred.
• Three or more years of professional planning experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Demonstrated knowledge of zoning, subdivision, and land-development regulations.
• Proficiency with ArcGIS and experience with Bluebeam or similar plan-review software.
• Ability to independently manage projects and present complex material to diverse audiences.

Preferred Qualifications (Either Level)

• AICP certification or active candidacy.
• Experience in transportation planning, subdivision review, or corridor studies.
• Skills in data visualization, graphic design, or community engagement.
• Knowledge of Virginia planning statutes and state code.

Application Process

Submit a cover letter, résumé, and completed County application here.

Please note: the selected candidate will be classified as Planner I or Planner II based on qualifications and demonstrated experience.