Senior City Planner

Job Description:

Senior City Planner

Description

The Senior City Planner applies applicable codes and policies in the review of development applications. Work assignments primarily involve the review and processing of land development and zoning applications, policy review and formulation, area and corridor planning, downtown revitalization and other planning initiatives. Work will increase in scope and responsibility with experience.

The salary range for this position is $84,012 to $113,416 annually with a hiring range of $84,012 - $98,714, depending on qualifications and experience. This position will remain open until filled. The first review of applications will take place two weeks after the initial posting date, with subsequent reviews conducted on a rolling basis as needed.

A current resume is required, and a cover letter is preferred.

Be a Part of Loveland’s Growth and Vision

At the heart of the City of Loveland’s efforts to build a vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable future is the Development Services Department. We collaborate closely with residents, developers, and builders to promote development that is safe, forward-thinking, and aligned with the community’s long-term goals. Our work is grounded in a strong commitment to innovation, integrity, and outstanding service.

As Loveland continues to grow, we are committed to guiding that progress through intentional planning and innovative development strategies. Our focus areas—economic vitality, affordable housing, diverse housing options, and small-lot development—reflect our dedication to serving the whole community. To this effect we are enhancing our capacities especially within the development review arena. This includes the implementation of a new community development software system, the addition of a communications officer to support our work and a concerted program to improve and streamline our presentations the Planning Commission and City Council.

Work Where You Live, Thrive Where You Work

Our office is located in the heart of downtown Loveland, just a short walk from an array of local attractions—including restaurants, brew pubs, unique shops, the Chilson Recreation Center, the public library, and the Loveland Museum. A nearby trail connects to a variety of recreational and open space amenities. Plus, with Rocky Mountain National Park only 30 miles away, you’ll enjoy unparalleled access to natural beauty and outdoor adventure. From sculpture parks and scenic lakes to live concerts, festivals, and top-tier golf courses, Loveland offers a lifestyle that’s hard to match.

We take pride in supporting work-life balance and offer a comprehensive benefits package, along with ample opportunities for growth and professional development. Join our team and help shape the future of a city that values your work—and your well-being.

Please view our video Working at Loveland to learn more about our exceptional Loveland community and the benefits of working for the City.

Essential Functions:

• Prepares staff reports recommending actions to be taken by the Zoning Board of Adjustment, Planning Commission and City Council, and provide oral and graphic presentations in support of staff reports.
• Receives and coordinates the processing of development proposals (including annexation, zoning, subdivision, and variance requests) with other city departments.
• Maintains clear communication with applicants, providing guidance to facilitate compliance with City regulations and good planning practice and timely project completion.
• Interprets and explains provisions of the City Code, applicable laws and regulations, and other policies and standards to the public, applicants, City officials, and other City staff.
• Provides high-quality customer service to various internal and external customers.
• Conducts a variety of planning research activities including the development of revised regulations which implement policies of the Comprehensive Master Plan and good urban planning practice.
• Provides urban design analysis in facilitating policy and regulatory improvements.
• Provides assistance as needed to other City offices in furthering design and planning objectives.
• Serves as chairperson or liaison to various committees as assigned.
• Performs field inspections to determine compliance of site improvements with approved plans.
• Reviews various planning applications and construction drawings for compliance with established standards and regulations.
• Assists in the development and presentation of various plans, policies and studies as assigned.
• Coordinates and facilitates neighborhood meetings and assists as applicable in negotiating acceptable solutions to neighborhood concerns and issues related to land use and development applications and proposals.

Other Job Functions:

• Participates in organization-wide committees, focus groups and work teams.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Management Expectations:

• None

Qualifications:

Education:

• Required: 4 Year/ Bachelor's Degree in Urban or Regional Planning or closely related field of study.
• Preferred: Graduate Degree in Urban or Regional Planning.

Experience:

• Required: 5 years progressively responsible experience in the field of urban planning.
• Required: 2 years' experience in development review.

Certifications:

• Must possess valid driver's license
• American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) certification is desirable.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Professional-level understanding of, and experience with, the application of the principles and practices of urban planning and development review.
• Knowledge of development review practices and procedures; project management techniques; laws pertaining to land development, zoning, subdivision, and annexation; current literature, information sources, and research techniques in the field of urban planning; and the physical, social, and economic aspects of communities and their interaction
• Ability to think independently and engage in problem solving. Ability to speak and write clearly, concisely, and effectively
• Ability to work collaboratively as a team member; obtain guidance as appropriate from more experienced staff; establish and maintain productive working relationships with fellow employees, developers, consultants, City officials, and the general public.
• Ability to professionally address disgruntled members of the public and resolve conflicts.
• Ability to analyze and interpret City regulations and policies relating to development plans; compile technical information and prepare reports; interpret and present City planning regulations and policies to interested groups and the general public; manage high workload, diverse demands, and deadlines effectively; and create appropriate graphic displays for use at meetings.

Physical Demands and Working Conditions:

• Frequent: Minimal physical effort typically found in clerical work. Primarily sedentary, may occasionally lift and carry light objects. Walking and/or standing as needed and minimal.

Working Environment:

• Frequent: Exposure to routine office noise and equipment.
• Occasional: Exposure to hazards typically found in general office environments where there is rarely to no exposure to injury or accident.

This job description is not designed to contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee.

With over 300 days of sunshine, and just 30 miles from Rocky Mountain National Park in the heart of northern Colorado, Loveland is an ideal community for anyone to call home. Known as the Sweetheart City, this vibrant cultural hub is home to nearly 500 sculptures and public art installations, the world-famous Valentine Remail Program, and picturesque views of the Rocky Mountains. The community is bustling with a thriving arts, brewery, foodie, and shopping scene. Enjoy headliner concert and theatre productions, professional hockey events, endless community recreation and open space opportunities, art and sculpture shows, and several local festivals. Loveland also boasts an award-winning golf course and an inclusive library and community center. Loveland, Colorado has EVERYTHING YOU LOVE!

In 2020, Loveland was the only Colorado City to win the Governor’s Award for Downtown Excellence, is the top residential recycling City in the state for 4 consecutive years and has been ranked as one of the top places to live, work and raise a family in the U.S. and as one of the Most Idyllic Picturesque towns in America.

Apply today to join more than 800 employees who work to meet the core values of: Accountability & Integrity, Transparency & Honoring the Public Trust, Collaboration, Innovation, Safety, Excellent Service with Courtesy and Kindness. The City of Loveland is a diverse and welcoming community organization, and our employees enjoy a competitive benefits program, various opportunities for growth and development, and an exceptional work-life balance.

A vibrant community, surrounded by natural beauty, where you belong!

Benefit Eligible Benefits Package Includes:

• Two (2) Medical plans, Dental, Vision (for self/ spouse/ children)
• A Dedicated, exclusive Employee Health and Wellness Center
• Discounted Chilson Center passes
• Paid vacation, holidays, floating holidays, and medical leave
• Flexible spending including Dependent Care
• Life Insurance, AD&D, Short-term and Long-term disability, and voluntary Critical Illness Coverage
• Retirement 401a, 457, Roth (pre-& post tax) and company match
• A Comprehensive Employee Assistance Program
• Voluntary 529 College Invest program
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Employee Referral Program
• Personal and Professional Development opportunities
• Employee Recognition Program
• Exceptional work-life balance
• Market based pay & regular performance reviews
• Local Government employment is eligible for Public Loan Forgiveness Program

Reasonable accommodation will be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

City of Loveland job descriptions are designed to describe the general nature and level of work necessary to perform well in the job; they are not intended to provide an exhaustive list of responsibilities, skills, and qualifications. City of Loveland job descriptions may be updated periodically, and additional activities, duties or responsibilities may be assigned by management as deemed appropriate.

The City of Loveland provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, genetic information, age, or any other status protected under federal, state, and/or local law.

The City of Loveland participates in E-Verify. In accordance with E-Verify requirements, upon your date of hire the City of Loveland will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S. E-Verify Notice of Participation.Learn more about your right to work. Visit E-Verify.gov for more information.

Hybrid Remote Work Eligibility

This position may be eligible for up to two days per week working remotely. Probationary employees (within the first six months of employment) may not be eligible. Subject to change based on business needs and performance expectations.

Employment offers will be conditional on the successful completion of a criminal history background check.