Senior Planner Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Job Summary The Zoning Administrator (Senior Planner) is a senior-level role instrumental in shaping the city's growth by leading the modernization of the City's zoning code and analyzing legislative amendments. Reporting to the Director of Planning and Zoning, this position serves as the principal staff liaison to key boards, manages complex zoning interpretations, and provides expert guidance to elected officials and the public. The role involves significant coordination with developers and attorneys, supervision of enforcement staff, and participation in the department's senior management team to ensure equitable and sustainable development.

Essential Job Functions Writes text amendments related to zoning and building codes and manages the modernization of the City's zoning code. Consults with elected officials, City departments, the public, and stakeholders on code modernization. Analyzes Council-sponsored zoning and related amendments and writes explanatory staffing and operational reports.

Assists in the general review and tracking of zoning amendments and integrates legislation into Department operations. Works with the Director on zoning interpretations, official letters, approval extensions, and complex enforcement matters. Coordinates directly with attorneys, developers, and applicants on zoning and development requests.

Ability to exercise judgment in problem-solving; Ability to communicate both orally and in writing; Participates in the development site plan review process, pre-qualifying applications for zoning compliance, including the Historic District. Reviews reports prepared by staff on zoning matters for the Planning Commission, HPC, and Board of Appeals. Serves as the principal staff administrator and liaison to the Board of Appeals and Board of Building Appeals.

Answers inquiries from the public, City Council, and staff to build understanding of zoning codes and approval procedures. Guides and advises staff and elected/appointed officials on complex zoning issues. Supervises the Zoning Enforcement Officer and coordinates activities with building inspectors.

Participates in the Department's Senior Staff management teams. Performs other related job duties as assigned Qualifications Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Thorough knowledge of planning practices, land use concepts, and socioeconomic implications. Advanced skill in interpreting and applying municipal laws, zoning ordinances, and regulations.

Ability to facilitate discussions among citizens and leaders to build consensus on planning policy. Strong skill in using GIS and Microsoft applications for data analysis and mapping. Ability to exercise high-level judgment in problem-solving and complex enforcement matters.

Excellent verbal and written communication skills for reporting to boards and elected officials. Minimum Qualifications Bachelor's Degree or Master's Degree from an accredited university in Urban Planning, Civil Engineering, Geography, or a related field; and Five (5) years of experience in local government planning, land use development, or an equivalent combination of education and experience Preferred Qualifications American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) certification is preferred. Previous experience as a liaison to a Board of Appeals or similar quasi-judicial body is highly desirable.

Employment Conditions Physical/Mental Demands Work requires significant physical mobility to walk long distances, stand for sustained periods, and maintain balance or crouch while navigating various work sites. Essential manual skills include reaching and grasping objects, as well as the fine motor dexterity needed for repetitive typing and operating technical office equipment. Finally, the position demands the visual, auditory, and mental acuity necessary to analyze complex data and clearly communicate detailed instructions to others.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement The City of Annapolis Government does not discriminate or retaliate in employment against any person seeking employment or employed in the civil service because of any consideration of political or religious affiliation or belief, race, color, sex, age, family status, national origin, marital status, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, or gender identity.