JOB DESCRIPTION

The Planning Manager performs advanced professional planning work involving current and long-range planning, land use and development review, implementation and updates to the Comprehensive Plan, review of zoning and development applications, preparation of code amendments and ordinances, and coordination of special projects.

This is a working manager position, expected to both lead assigned staff and directly perform administrative planning work. The Planning Manager will remain actively involved in plan review, development review, staff reports, public hearing preparation, and related projects.

This position also supports broader Community Development Department operations, including historic preservation, economic development, Percent for Arts, City beautification, and Twin City Mile programs. The Planning Manager may serve as Acting Community Development Director in the Director's absence, as assigned.

Ideal Candidate:

• The ideal candidate is an experienced municipal planning professional with strong technical planning expertise, sound judgment, and the ability to lead complex projects from concept through implementation.
• This individual will be comfortable managing both current and long-range planning work, interpreting land use codes and policies, preparing clear and legally defensible staff reports, and presenting recommendations to the Planning Commission, City Council, Hearing Examiner, and other public bodies.
• The ideal candidate will also be a collaborative supervisor and team leader who can assign and review work, support professional development, manage competing priorities, and help build a high-performing Community Development team.

Education and Experience:

• Possession of a bachelor's degree in urban planning, geography, or a related field
• Eight (8) years of increasingly responsible professional planning experience, including two (2) years of administrative and supervisory responsibility; or
• Any combination of education and experience necessary to perform the essential functions of the position.

To Apply: Jobs • Stanwood, WA • CivicEngage

Open Until Filled - First Application Review: June 22, 2026 @ 5 pm

The City of Stanwood is an Equal Opportunity/ADA Employer. We are committed to a diverse workforce and do not discriminate based on race, creed, color, national origin, disability, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or age.