Planner

County of Door • Sturgeon Bay, WI

5d

About The Position

Thank you for your interest in joining Door County Government!
Door County is proud to be a premier place to live, work, and visit. We serve nearly 30,000 year-round residents and a vibrant seasonal population by providing essential services that support and protect the people, economy, and environment of the beautiful Door Peninsula.
Within the County organization, the Land Use Services Department oversees zoning administration, land use planning, environmental protection, and compliance with applicable county and state regulations. The department processes zoning permits, conditional use requests, variances, appeals, and proposed ordinance or map amendments, supporting informed decision-making through public hearings and established review procedures.
Land Use Services also administers the County’s Private Onsite Wastewater Treatment System (POWTS) program, ensuring proper regulation, inspection, and monitoring to protect ground and surface water resources. In addition, the department develops and updates comprehensive and farmland preservation plans, prepares and maintains land use ordinances, and provides technical assistance, education, and coordination with local municipalities, state agencies, and community partners.
Through these combined functions, the Land Use Services Department promotes responsible development, environmental stewardship, and sound land use practices across Door County.
To continue this important work, we are seeking a candidate who will perform the responsibilities outlined in the job summary and contribute to our efforts in serving the community.
Job Summary:
This position supports the County’s land use and development goals through professional planning services. It involves analytical, advisory, and project management work to guide the implementation of comprehensive, preservation, and related land use plans. The Planner serves as a key resource for local municipalities, inter-agency coordination, and the public, requiring collaboration, technical proficiency, and policy interpretation.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Urban or Regional Planning, Landscape Architecture, Geography, Public Administration, Natural Resource Management, or a closely related field.
• Three (3) or more years of experience in community planning, land use policy, or related fields.
• Valid driver’s license.
• Analytical Reasoning: Interprets planning data and policy impacts to inform recommendations and planning documents.
• Technical Proficiency: Uses GIS and related tools to perform land use analysis and produce accurate, informative maps.
• Communication: Delivers clear presentations and explanations to diverse audiences; prepares concise written materials for technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Collaboration: Works effectively with public officials, colleagues, and community members to advance planning initiatives.
• Problem Solving: Approaches planning challenges with a balance of regulatory knowledge, practical considerations, and community input.
• Project Management: Coordinates multiple projects with varying timelines and stakeholders, ensuring quality and timeliness.

Nice To Haves

• Master’s degree in Urban or Regional Planning, Public Administration, or a related discipline.
• Experience working with local governments or in a public sector planning role.
• Familiarity with GIS platforms and demographic analysis.
• Knowledge of Wisconsin-specific planning laws and grant programs.

Responsibilities

• Consults with County departments, local governments, and external agencies to identify planning needs, develop project goals, and determine implementation methods.
• Develops, coordinates, and implements comprehensive, farmland preservation, and specialized land use plans and studies in partnership with internal and external stakeholders.
• Attends and conducts public meetings to present, explain, and gather input on planning initiatives; prepares presentations, maps, and supporting documentation.
• Reviews, drafts, and revises ordinances and regulatory frameworks related to land use, including zoning, subdivision, floodplain, and energy systems.
• Conducts spatial and statistical analysis using GIS and related software to support planning projects and inform decision-making.
• Provides technical consultation and demographic information to municipal boards, commissions, and community groups in support of planning and development activities.
• Monitors and analyzes state and federal grant programs related to community and economic development; advises municipalities on funding opportunities and assists with applications.
• Tracks legislative developments that may impact local planning policies or operations and provides summaries or recommendations to appropriate parties.
• Ensures accurate and professional communication in all written reports, public materials, and oral briefings.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level