JOB DESCRIPTION

Under the general direction of the Community and Economic Development Director, the Principal Planner performs advanced professional and managerial planning work related to community development, redevelopment, long-range planning, and zoning. This position is responsible for leading major planning initiatives and serves as a technical expert on complex development proposals, strategic policy work, and long-range planning.

The Principal Planner exercises a high level of independent judgment in applying advanced planning principles, practices, and techniques. The position requires extensive collaboration with City management, Engineering, elected officials, community organizations, developers, consultants, and the public to ensure that development activities align with the City's vision, Comprehensive Plan, and Land Use Regulations.

This position functions as a leader within the Community and Economic Development team, providing guidance to other planners and contributing to departmental leadership. The Principal Planner is expected to take ownership of critical projects and may perform duties of lower-level planning positions when needed to support department operations. A key responsibility of the Principal Planner is enhancing the City’s public realm by translating urban and placemaking principles into tangible projects that promote walkability, livability, and the Comprehensive Plan's goals.