Community Development Planner Jobs in Chicago, IL

This role is responsible for translating client goals, care models, operational needs, and regulatory requirements into thoughtful planning solutions that inform project scope, space programs, adjacencies, departmental layouts, and overall project strategy from early visioning through design development. 

The ideal candidate brings strong healthcare planning experience, clinical and operational insight, and the ability to work collaboratively with clients, users, designers, and technical teams to shape effective care environments. This individual will serve as a key planning resource throughout the project lifecycle, guiding stakeholder engagement, user group processes, operational planning discussions, and design decision-making to ensure projects align with clinical workflows, strategic goals, and healthcare best practices.

Minimum of 8 years of healthcare design industry experience. 

• Ability to clearly articulate and lead a medical planning process for complex projects with the client and design team 

• Evident ability and willingness to collaborate with other design disciplines and with clients 

• Provide project team leadership on a range of healthcare project types and sizes, ranging from ground-up new construction to additions and renovation. 

• Knowledge of building codes, zoning, jurisdictional processes, and regulations, including FGI for Inpatient and Outpatient Facilities 

• Experience with CON processes 

• Experience with Master Planning and Strategic Facility Planning 

• Working knowledge of Lean-focused operational improvement processes 

• Foster strong client relationships 

• Show an interest in keeping pace with healthcare industry changes, trends and advancements 

• Experience in the marketing and sales of new work 

• Provide mentorship to colleagues 

• Participate in healthcare practice advancement initiatives 

• Confidence and experience with public speaking 

• Willingness to travel 

• Proficient in Adobe Creative Suite (InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop) 

• Proficient in Revit, AutoCAD, SketchUp, and other 3D modeling software 

• Manage multiple aspects of client, team, and project coordination, including full documentation coordination with consultants (structural, MEP, lighting, AV, acoustical, accessibility, building envelope, life safety, etc.) 

• Resolve complex technical and design issues with team to produce innovative technical/constructible solutions 

• Managing client expectations, team communication, and oversight of consultant coordination 

Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree (or foreign equivalent) in Architecture, or related field (required) 

• Master's Degree (or foreign equivalent) in Architecture, or related field (preferred) 

• ACHA, Lean and/or EDAC Certification is a plus 

• Flexibility to focus on concurrent projects in various stages of development 

• Excellent written + verbal communication and client relationship management skills 

Why Moody Nolan?

Our culture
Moody Nolan is a diverse workplace, founded on the principles of equity and inclusion. We believe the best designs come from divergent perspectives working together toward a common goal. We pursue design excellence and use architecture as a catalyst to uplift and empower communities.

With 12 offices nationwide, we champion one another in achieving career aspirations while balancing life's demands. We’re always looking for new talent to join us in creating the future of design.

What we do
We practice responsive architecture and responsible citizenship— designing solutions unique to our clients, community, and the environment. We listen intently and analyze creatively to design spaces that reflect the culture of our clients and the communities they serve. As responsible citizens, we design spaces that prioritize human health and protect the Earth’s ecosystems.

We believe in leading by example— it's why our firm is diverse by design. As the largest African American-owned firm, equity and inclusion shape our firm culture and guide our design decisions. We challenge the status quo to create equitable design solutions that address systemic racism and inspire positive social change.

What we offer
Our employee benefits support you for the long term—from continuing education to retirement planning—we’re here to help you succeed.

Starting salary: $95,000 (The specific salary offered may be influenced by a variety of factors including but not limited to the candidate's relevant experience, education, and office location.)

We offer:
Paid Vacation and Wellness Time
9 paid Holidays
Parental & Related Leaves of Absence
Medical, Dental, and Vision
401K Retirement Plan
Life Insurance
Disability Insurance
Accident and Critical Illness Programs
Section 125 Premium Program
Flexible Spending and Health Savings Account
Certification and Licensure Credit
Career Mentoring and Advancement
Transit and Parking Allowance

Sound like a good fit? We’d love to meet you.