Community Planner

wsb•St. Louis Park, MN

About The Position

The Community Planner leads and supports a variety of planning, zoning, land use, and community development projects with moderate independence. This role is responsible for conducting complex research and analysis, preparing planning documents, managing portions of projects, and presenting recommendations to internal and external stakeholders. The Community Planner also plays a key role in community engagement, internal service group coordination, guiding junior staff, contributing to high-quality planning outcomes that support sustainable and equitable community growth. WSB was founded on the understanding that culture drives results, and we've dedicated ourselves to the value of strong relationships, collaboration, and forward-thinking ideas. We've inspired each other to discover thoughtful and creative solutions that look beyond the needs of today to the opportunities of tomorrow. We invite you to forge ahead with us.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Urban Planning, Community Planning, or a closely related field required.
2–5+ years of professional planning experience in local government, regional agencies, or private planning/engineering consulting.
Possession of a valid driver’s license with a clean driving record and the ability to operate a motor vehicle is required.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree in Urban and Regional Planning or similar field preferred.
AICP certification or ability to obtain certification within one year preferred.
Experience with GIS software and planning tools preferred.

Responsibilities

Conduct advanced planning research and data analysis on demographics, land use, transportation, housing, environmental issues, and economic trends to support planning studies and policy development.
Lead portions of comprehensive plans, small-area plans, zoning updates, and special planning studies, ensuring timely and high-quality deliverables.
Prepare and interpret maps, graphics, and technical visualizations using GIS, planning software, and data visualization tools.
Evaluate complex land use, zoning, and development applications for alignment with regulations, design standards, and long-term planning goals.
Prepare detailed reports, findings, and recommendations for Planning Commissions, City Councils, and advisory boards; present information in public meetings as necessary.
Draft, review, and update comprehensive plans, ordinances, zoning codes, and planning policies, incorporating best practices and stakeholder feedback.
Support and occasionally lead zoning and code enforcement activities, including inspections, documentation, communication, and resolution recommendations.
Plan and facilitate public engagement activities, including workshops, open houses, focus groups, and stakeholder interviews.
Develop public-facing materials such as presentations, maps, exhibits, surveys, and web-based content to support transparent engagement.
Compile and synthesize community input into actionable planning recommendations.
Coordinate project schedules, deliverables, and communication with cross-functional teams, consultants, developers, and partner agencies.
Conduct site visits and field assessments, documenting conditions and identifying constraints and opportunities relevant to planning studies and development review.
Assist with grant writing, administration, and reporting, including assembling data, project descriptions, and progress updates.
Serve as a subject-matter resource for residents, developers, and community partners regarding zoning, land use regulations, and planning processes.
Build and maintain effective working relationships with community groups, internal departments, regional partners, and elected officials.