PLANNING MANAGER
Confirmed on the employer's own hiring board on Oct 17, 2026. First seen by Alion on Oct 15, 2026.
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Accountable for the County's development review program and day to day operation of Planning Department. Performs the most difficult and complex professional planning work. Provides supervision to other planners and assists the Community Development Director in providing staff support to the Board of County Commissioners, the Planning Commission, the Board of Adjustment, and others as assigned.The following duty statements are illustrative of the essential functions of the job and do not include other non-essential or marginal duties that may be required. Mesa County reserves the right to modify or change the duties or essential functions of this job at any time. All responsibilities may not be performed by all incumbents.)
Manages the review of development applications.
Exercises direct supervision over professional and technical staff.
Performs the most complex planning duties and serves as project manager for major planning projects.
Analyzes and makes recommendations regarding the entire development review process, from the pre-application stage through certificate of occupancy.
As assigned, serves as staff to the Planning Commission, Board of County Commissioners, Board of Adjustment, and other commissions and committees, including the preparation and presentation of reports and recommendations.
Applies the Mesa County Land Use Code in a manner consistent with County policies and procedures.
Participates in the development, refinement, and implementation of goals, objectives, regulations, and procedures related to the Community Development Department.
Assists in the drafting of amendments to the Land Use Code or Master Plan.
Coordinates planning activities with other division programs, other County departments and divisions, and with outside agencies.
Oral and written communications must be clear and effective.
Performs other related duties as assigned.
Minimum Requirements:
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED:
Education and Experience:
Six (6) years of increasingly responsible relevant planning experience in a local government environment, including supervisory responsibilities.
Equivalent to a Master's Degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in Urban Planning, or a related field, may substitute for two to three years of the required experience Considerable knowledge of the theory, principles and techniques of the planning profession and development process
Considerable knowledge of federal, state and local laws, ordinances and codes pertaining to a wide variety of planning topics
Considerable knowledge of principles of personnel management, including supervision, training and performance evaluation
Proven management skills and ability to manage day-to-day operations
Strong interpersonal and public relations skills to work effectively with various officials, staff, citizens and other customers
Ability to understand and manage high-profile, sensitive or controversial political situations
Possession of, or ability to obtain, a valid Driver's License.
Possession of, or ability to obtain, certification from the American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) within 1 year of hire.
Completion of Systematic Development of Informed Consent (SDIC) training is highly desirable.
Any combination of education, training and experience which provides the knowledge, skills and abilities required for the job.
Licenses and Certifications:
American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) Certification (desired)
Supplemental Information:
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS AND WORKING ENVIRONMENT:
This position requires standing, stooping, sitting, bending, twisting, and lifting up to 10 pounds.
Work is generally confined to a standard office environment.
This position is eligible for the following Mesa County benefits;
- Medical
- Dental
- Vision
- Retirement
- Paid Sick and Vacation Leave
- Life insurance
- Long term disability
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Agency
Mesa County
Address
544 Rood Ave
Grand Junction, CO 81501
Phone
970- 244 - 1856
Website
http://www.mesacounty.us