Planner I or Planner II (depending on qualifications)

City of Greensboro•Greensboro, NC

13d•Onsite

About The Position

Help Shape the Future of Greensboro. Every new neighborhood, business, development, and community space helps shape Greensboro's future. As a Planner I or Planner II, you'll help guide that growth—balancing community needs, development opportunities, sound planning principles, and the City's vision for a thriving, equitable, and sustainable community. This is an opportunity for a planning professional who enjoys solving complex problems, working directly with the public, and turning planning principles into meaningful outcomes. The Planner I/II serves as a key connection between the City's planning regulations and the people who are shaping Greensboro's built environment. You'll review residential and non-residential development proposals, interpret zoning requirements, help applicants navigate approval processes, and present information to public Boards and Commissions. The role combines technical planning, customer service, public engagement, collaboration, and policy work —giving you the opportunity to see the impact of your work from initial application through public decision-making.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Planning, Geography, Public Administration, or a related field.
One (1) to three (3) years of related professional experience.
Valid North Carolina Driver's License.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office software.
Experience understanding and applying land use planning theory and practice.
Completion of the NC School of Government Introduction to Zoning course, or the ability to obtain either Certified Zoning Official (CZO) or American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) certification within six months of hire.
Strong public presentation skills.
Ability to read and interpret plans, aerial photographs, topographic maps, and other maps and plans associated with development proposals.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor's degree in Planning, Geography, Public Administration, or a related field with 4–6 years of relevant experience.
Master's degree in a related field with 1–3 years of relevant experience.
CZO or AICP certification.
Experience staffing public Boards and Commissions.
Experience working in municipal planning, zoning, development review, or a related environment.
Experience communicating complex planning or regulatory information to diverse audiences.

Responsibilities

Review residential and non-residential development proposals for compliance with the City's Land Development Ordinance.
Evaluate zoning requirements and communicate requirements, options, and potential alternatives to applicants.
Balance development practices, accepted planning principles, and legislative intent when evaluating proposals.
Guide developers, landowners, residents, professionals, and other interested parties through required approval processes.
Explain planning and zoning processes and opportunities for community participation.
Prepare staff reports, presentations, and other materials for City Council-appointed Boards and Commissions.
Present planning recommendations and information during public meetings and hearings.
Ensure applicable local and State requirements are met for public hearings.
Collaborate with Planning staff and other City departments on development reviews and public hearing matters.
Participate in technical plan reviews and approvals.
Serve on a rotating basis as the Planner of the Day, providing the public with information about zoning and development matters.
Provide departmental approvals for applicable permits and communicate information about pending decisions.
Work with senior leadership on ordinance and policy improvements.
Help identify opportunities to modernize development processes, improve efficiency, and expand staff capacity.
Participate in continuing education and professional development opportunities.
Share knowledge and contribute to the ongoing development of Planning Department staff.