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Town of Cornelius, North Carolina

Hiring Range: $49,776 - $62,220

Specific salary offers will be based upon qualifications at or above minimum with preference given to highly qualified candidates. This position is eligible for future advancement to a Planner II position, dependent upon demonstrated proficiency.

Make an Impact in a Dynamic Community

The Town of Cornelius is seeking an experienced, solutions-oriented Planner to help shape the future of a highly engaged community. Under the general supervision of the Assistant Planning Director, this position offers meaningful, visible work and exposure to a broad range of planning disciplines.

The successful candidate will bring sound professional judgment, strong analytical and communication skills, and the ability to balance regulatory requirements with practical, thoughtful solutions.

What You’ll Do

As a Planner, you will:

• Participate in planning projects, studies, and initiatives that support the Town’s growth and development.
• Prepare, maintain, and manage GIS data and maps for planning projects and other Town departments, primarily using ESRI software such as ArcGIS Pro.
• Develop maps and visual materials for presentations, reports, and planning initiatives.
• Assist residents, property owners, businesses, and development professionals by phone, email, and in person with questions regarding zoning, setbacks, signs, permitted uses, watershed regulations, and commercial and residential permitting processes.
• Process and review land development submittals through the Mecklenburg County Accela system, including site plans, plats, and commercial and residential zoning permits.
• Aid in the preparation and/or presentation of planning cases, studies, and projects to governing and advisory boards.
• Support the review of land use and group development applications such as zoning and rezoning requests, subdivisions, annexations, variances, special use permits, watershed matters, and other development applications.
• Collaborate with governmental agencies, civic organizations, business leaders, developers, residents, and other community stakeholders on planning and community development matters.
• Assist with long-range and comprehensive planning efforts and other special projects.
• Perform other related duties as required.

What You’ll Bring

An ideal candidate will have:

• Knowledge of the principles and practices of urban planning.
• Knowledge of laws, statutes, rules, and regulations related to planning, zoning, and community development.
• An understanding of the principles underlying planning and zoning regulations.
• Knowledge of ESRI GIS mapping applications such as ArcGISPro.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and Adobe Acrobat Professional, with the ability to learn new software and technology.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• The ability to prepare and deliver clear, concise reports and presentations to internal and external audiences.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, including the ability to evaluate complex planning issues and develop practical recommendations.
• The ability to provide professional, responsive, and effective customer service.
• The ability to work collaboratively with Town officials, residents, community groups, developers, and diverse agencies and stakeholders.
• The ability to manage multiple assignments, priorities, and deadlines in a professional environment.
• Experience with the responsible use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) is preferred.

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in Urban Planning, Geography, Public Administration, or a closely related field; Master’s degree is preferred.
• A minimum of one (1) to two (2) years of experience in Municipal Planning, Zoning Administration, or a related field.
• An equivalent combination of education, training, and experience may be considered.

Special Requirements

• Possession of a valid driver’s license.
• Ability to obtain certification through the American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) and/or as a Certified Zoning Official (CZO) through the UNC School of Government.

Why Build Your Planning Career in Cornelius?

Cornelius offers experienced planners something increasingly valuable: the opportunity to do substantive, visible work in a community where planning decisions matter.

Located in the Lake Norman area of the greater Charlotte region, Cornelius is a vibrant community, navigating priorities to manage growth and mindfully support redevelopment, transportation needs, environmental considerations, and strong community interest in how the Town evolves. This environment creates a professionally rewarding setting for a Planner who enjoys complex issues, thoughtful problem-solving, and work that extends beyond a narrow specialty.

Join Our Team

If you are a planning professional ready to bring your expertise, judgment, and ideas to a dynamic community, we invite you to apply for the Planner position with the Town of Cornelius.

Bring your experience. Expand your impact. Help shape what comes next.

The Town of Cornelius is an Equal Opportunity Employer.