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Senior Planner Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

As a Senior Transportation Planner , you will lead projects, mentor graduate planners, and collaborate with expert professionals on a variety of small to large-scale projects. You will become engaged ...

As a Senior Transportation Planner , you will lead projects, mentor graduate planners, and collaborate with expert professionals on a variety of small to large-scale projects. You will become engaged ...

As a Senior Transportation Planner , you will lead projects, mentor graduate planners, and collaborate with expert professionals on a variety of small to large-scale projects. You will become engaged ...

Overview National multidisciplinary design firm is seeking a talented Senior Lab Planner to join their Milwaukee office. The firm has 11 offices all around the world focusing on healthcare, arts and ...

Senior Healthcare Planner Lead **IMPORTANT APPLICATION REQUIREMENT: Please include a cover letter, resume and a portfolio demonstrating your relevant experience.** Uploaded documents should be less ...

BWBR is seeking a senior Healthcare Planner Lead to help shape the future of healthcare design for our clients and for the firm. This role blends deep planning expertise and leadership, business ...

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Showing results 1-20

Senior Planner information

See Wisconsin salary details

$50.5K

$90.6K

$125.7K

How much do senior planner jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior planner in Wisconsin is $90,553.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $74,200.00 and $105,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a senior planner?

The duties of a senior planner vary widely by industry. The job often consists of overseeing and implementing business plans for an organization. As a senior planner, you can work for both private organizations and nonprofit community foundations. A significant part of the career is developing better business policy and procedures, so you need extensive creative planning experience. Additional qualifications include a bachelor’s degree in planning, public administration, or a related field, excellent management skills, and immense knowledge of the industry in which you work. This is a high-level position, so you must work your way up from an entry-level planner position.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a senior planner, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Senior Planner, you need expertise in urban planning, land use policy, and project management, typically supported by a degree in urban planning or a related field and relevant work experience. Familiarity with GIS software, zoning codes, and planning regulations is essential, and certification such as AICP is often advantageous. Strong communication, analytical thinking, and stakeholder engagement skills help you build consensus and navigate complex projects. These competencies ensure effective planning solutions that balance community needs, regulatory requirements, and sustainable growth.

How does a senior planner typically collaborate with cross-functional teams to drive project success?

Senior Planners play a crucial role in coordinating with various departments such as engineering, procurement, and project management. They facilitate regular meetings to align schedules, address potential bottlenecks, and ensure that all stakeholders are informed about project timelines. Effective communication and negotiation skills are essential, as the Senior Planner must balance competing priorities and adjust plans as necessary. This collaborative approach helps to mitigate risks, improve resource allocation, and keep projects on track.

What is the difference between Senior Planner vs Project Coordinator?

AspectSenior PlannerProject Coordinator
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in planning, urban development, or related field; often with experience in planning softwareBachelor's degree in related field; certification is a plus but not always required
Work EnvironmentTypically in urban planning departments, government agencies, or consulting firmsIn project teams across various industries, including construction, IT, and marketing
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in government, urban development, and environmental planning sectorsCommon across industries managing multiple projects and deadlines

The main difference is that Senior Planners focus on developing and analyzing planning strategies, often with more experience and specialized skills, while Project Coordinators handle day-to-day project logistics and communication. Both roles require strong organizational skills, but Senior Planners typically have more strategic responsibilities and industry-specific expertise.

How much do senior planners get paid?

Senior planners typically earn a median annual salary between $70,000 and $100,000, depending on experience, location, and industry. They often have advanced skills in project management, data analysis, and planning tools, which can influence compensation levels.

What are the most commonly searched types of Planner jobs in Wisconsin?

The most popular types of Planner jobs in Wisconsin are:

What are popular job titles related to Senior Planner jobs in Wisconsin?

For Senior Planner jobs in Wisconsin, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Senior Planner jobs in Wisconsin look for?

The top searched job categories for Senior Planner jobs in Wisconsin are:

What cities in Wisconsin are hiring for Senior Planner jobs?

Cities in Wisconsin with the most Senior Planner job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Senior Planner jobs in WI?

For Senior Planner jobs in WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Senior Planner job openings in Wisconsin as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $90,553 per year, or $43.5 per hour.

Senior Planner- Planning and Parks

Ozaukee County

Port Washington, WI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

Job Description: Exempt PositionPay Range: $35.56-45.44SummaryThis position is responsible for guiding the overall management of the Department’s planning and geographic information system (GIS) functions, including comprehensive, park and open space, farmland preservation planning, environmental and natural resource analysis and reviews, county-owned lands zoning, land division reviews, and strategic planning initiatives. The role supports participating local units of government with the development, revision, and implementation of local comprehensive plans and zoning ordinances. The position coordinates and implements the Department’s GIS mapping, data management, and spatial analysis across all Divisions and programs. It provides technical support for planning, environmental, and parks and trail projects, and contributes to education and outreach efforts, including website and social media content development. The position also assists with grant development, writing, and reporting to support Department initiativesPlanning: 35%Supports all aspects of the Department’s planning responsibilities, including development, revision, amendment, and implementation of the Multi-Jurisdictional Comprehensive Plan, Park and Open Space Plan, Farmland Preservation Plan, and other countywide and partner planning initiatives (e.g. Housing Plan, Park Master Planning, Bicycle and Pedestrian Planning, Brownfields, Coastal Hazards, Emergency Management, Land Information Modernization Plan).Assists with the preparation of ecological, tourism and recreation planning documents and the development, application and use of GIS decision-support tools.Provides comprehensive planning and zoning assistance to participating local units of government as requested.Assists in the administration of the Ozaukee County-Owned Lands Zoning Ordinance, Floodplain and Shoreland Protection Zoning Ordinances, including GIS mapping and data management.Contributes to the development of reports, grants, and related initiatives supporting Department programs.Review land divisions and prepare staff reports including GIS mapping. Conducts planning, GIS, land use, and environmental reviews and reports for land divisions and zoning actions.Provides staff support, data, and reporting (technical, budget and narrative) for various County committees and boards.Geographic Information Systems: 30%Manages the data collection, development, integration, and maintenance of the Department’s GIS, GPS, and environmental, land use and recreation databases and layers, particularly as relates to the Land Information Modernization Plan.Coordinates with multiple County departments to ensure effective data sharing, technical support, and system integration.Maintains and updates planned land use maps and other GIS-based planning resources.Provides GIS and mapping support for grant applications, project reporting, and permit submissions across federal, state, local, and private partners.Assists with the management of the Department’s website, social media, and online GIS data layers.Coordinates with the Land Information Office on development and management of shared data and data layers.Innovation for cartography and mapping of complex data and analysis.Assist and train other Department staff on GIS and analysis tools. Technical and Committee Support: 20%Provide general technical Planning and GIS support to all Department Divisions and professional staff. Prepare minutes, materials and reports (technical, budget and narrative) for various Boards and Committees including the County Board, Natural Resources Committee, Comprehensive Planning Board, Ozaukee Interurban Trail Advisory Council and other ad-hoc committees, boards and councils (Wisconsin Shipwreck Coast National Marine Sanctuary Advisory Council).Develop, track and report on benchmarks, measures, milestones, outcomes and metrics for the County Board, County Committees, the Department, and for multiple grants and projects. Develop and manage Department databases in coordination with staff, program and design spreadsheets, compile, analyze and report on statistical data, and create mailing lists particularly for land division and zoning items.Assists with GIS and GPS mapping/databases, data collection and analysis for water quality, fish, avian and wildlife monitoring, invasive species management, park and trail projects and other related efforts. Design and implement user and public opinion surveys.Provide planning and assistance for brownfield, coastal hazard and bluff stability initiatives and projects. Assists in training and supervision of Planning and Parks Department interns, limited term staff and volunteers. Education, Outreach, Marketing and Economic Development: 10%Support the Department’s public education and outreach efforts including the development of maps, brochures, presentations, and educational signage and displays. Assists in the development and maintenance of Department and partner (e.g. Ozaukee County Tourism) websites, social media, e-newsletters, and outreach materials. Promotes public awareness, community engagement, and economic vitality through digital content, events, and collaborative initiatives.Represent the Department at community and education and outreach events and conduct outreach to residents, local governments and partner organizations. Develop and provide accurate information on Department programs, services and facilities, FAQ sheets and other summaries. Retrieve and maintain resources available to the public including electronic and hard copy documents and educational resources. Supports the NOAA Wisconsin Shipwreck Coast National Marine Sanctuary and other tourism and cultural heritage initiatives through planning, mapping, outreach, and interagency coordination.Contributes to marketing and communication efforts that highlight Ozaukee County’s parks, trails, waterways, natural resources, and cultural attractions. Other Duties: 5%Perform other duties in support of the Department’s mission as assignedSupervision Reports directly to the Director of Planning and Parks. Assigned to the Planning and Parks Department under the Planning Division. The incumbent follows regulations set forth by the County Board, Natural Resources Committee and Planning and Parks Department. Assists with supervision of temporary, limited term staff and interns. Education: Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in planning, geographic information systems (GIS), engineering, geography, environmental science, applied ecology, landscape architecture or a closely related field and proven experience in these fields. Master’s Degree or additional certifications (i.e. GIS, AutoCAD) preferred.Experience:Two to five years of progressively responsible work experience in planning, GIS, geography, engineering, environmental science, applied ecology, landscape architecture or a closely related field. Valid Driver’s License required. AICP Certification is desirable.Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: Customer Service Excellence: Deliver exceptional customer/public experiences, addressing inquiries and resolving complaints with professionalism and courtesy. Interpersonal Communication: Communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing, with customers, staff, government agencies, non-profits, community groups, committees, and County Board Supervisors. Conflict Resolution: Handle customer and team disputes with empathy, diplomacy, and fairness. Adaptability: Manage flexible hours and prioritize tasks in a dynamic, customer/public-facing environment with tight timelines and deadlines. Emotional Intelligence: Build rapport, understand customer and team needs, and maintain a professional demeanor. Technical Proficiency: Demonstrate excellent computer skills, including familiarity with email, internet, fax, and systems such as GIS, website development, PayPal, graphical software (e.g. Canva, Adobe) and Mailchimp (or other email distribution / newsletters).Attention to Detail: Ensure accuracy in operations, reporting, and system management. Relationship Building: Establish and maintain effective working relationships with diverse groups, including the public, interest groups, and non-profit organizations. Data Analysis and Problem-Solving: Analyze complex data, evaluate systems, make implementation recommendations, and solve problems efficiently in a collaborative team environment. Analyze data to provide summaries for Director to be used in Committee and County Board reporting.Project and Time Management: Manage projects, research data, prioritize tasks, and work independently with minimal supervision.Other Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:Comprehensive knowledge of planning, environmental/natural resource science, and land use policies and practices (Wisconsin). Comprehensive knowledge of GIS (e.g. ESRI), GPS, spatial databases, and digital mapping programs. Comprehensive knowledge of a wide variety of land information systems, planning, land division, and zoning laws and regulations. Knowledge of parks, trails, recreation, landscape architecture, and park management principles.Knowledge of PLSS, surveying and surveying principles, experience with GPS fieldwork is desirable.Excellent administrative and data analysis skills.Strong computer skills with Microsoft Office Suite, statistical software and ability to learn new systems.Working knowledge of ecology, forestry, biology, wildlife and environmental/natural resource science.Working knowledge of government processes and agencies, non-profit organizations, and community partners involved in planning, environmental, and tourism efforts.Ability to read, understand and write legal descriptions.Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships, manage projects, and research data as needed.Strong skills in data analysis, statistical evaluation, and report development.Proficient in grant writing, research, and program administration.Ability to analyze complex data, evaluate systems, and make informed recommendations.Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and ability to manage multiple priorities and projects.Excellent oral and written communication skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly to varied audiences.Ability to collaborate effectively with staff, committees, government agencies, non-profit partners, and the public.Demonstrated ability to build and maintain effective working relationships and provide exceptional customer service.Experience in marketing, public outreach, and promotional activities are desirable. Use of graphical software (e.g. Canva, Adobe)Ability to plan, implement, and evaluate projects efficiently and effectively.Demonstrated ability to manage schedules, prioritize work independently, and meet deadlines under pressure.Ability to train, supervise, and support staff, interns, and volunteers; supervisory experience preferred.Flexible and adaptable to changing priorities and project needs; willingness to work evenings and weekends as required.Work EnvironmentThe work environment characteristics are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. This is primarily an inside work environment with some outside work, including adverse weather, noise, chemicals, physical hazard, and stressful situations. Physical considerations include frequent walking, standing, reaching, twisting, bending, and lifting objects up to 50 lbs. Distractive environment at times. Responsible for work outside of normal work hours as assigned including weekends and evenings.EOE/ADA Statement:Ozaukee County is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, Ozaukee County will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.Nothing in this job description limits management’s right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time. 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. The job description does not constitute an employment agreement or affect the at-will nature of the employment arrangement between the employee and company and is subject to change by the employer as the needs of the employer and requirements of the job change. Ozaukee County offers a generous benefits package including: health, dental, life, & vision insurance; free employee health clinic & Teladoc; paid holidays, vacation, & sick time; state of Wisconsin WRS defined benefit pension program; bonus opportunities; employee fitness room; wellness program & wellness reimbursement; tuition reimbursement & continuing education opportunities; and more! Please note some that benefits offered are dependent on full-time/part-time status. Ozaukee County prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type against applicants and employees on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, handicap, disability, genetics, veteran status or military service, marital status or sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic or status protected by federal, state or local laws. Ozaukee County also provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities in accordance with the requirements of the Americans With Disabilities Act and applicable state and local laws. Powered by JazzHR c42g9JyVXO