JOB DESCRIPTION

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 EXERCISED: May supervise office staff and or subordinate planners.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

The following duties are typical for this classification. Other duties may be required and assigned:

Serves as a lead planner for the City of Kalispell.

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

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.

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.

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.

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

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

Leads community engagement efforts on a range of planning issues.

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

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

Acts for the Director in his absence.

Other duties as assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS (Education and Experience):

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

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;

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

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

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

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

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 responsible for completion of work assignments in the absence of a department supervisor; provides responsive and timely feedback to supervisory staff on status and progress of work activities;

Ability to prepare accurate and deliver on time; letters, reports, requisitions, legal notices, memos, and other written documents in a timely manner;

Ability to conduct and oversee federal grant programs and applications; and

Ability to establish positive working relationships with representatives of community organizations, state/local agencies and associations, City management and staff, and the public.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to sit and talk or hear. The employee is occasionally required to walk; use hands to finger, handle, or operate objects, tools, or controls; and reach with hands and arms.

The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and the ability to adjust focus.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

The noise level in the work environment is moderate.

SELECTION GUIDELINES:

Formal application analyzed, rating of education and experience; oral interview and reference check; other job-related tests may be required.

The duties listed above are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the position.

Kalispell is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the American with Disabilities Act, the City will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.

The job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and employee and is subject to change by the employer as the needs of the employer and requirements of the job change.

POSTED: July 27, 2026 CLOSES: Open until filled

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.