Hybrid Principal Planner bei City of Issaquah, WA

About the Department

The Principal Planner is responsible for leading and managing complex planning projects and initiatives. This role involves strategic planning, policy development, and coordination to ensure the successful implementation of planning projects. The Principal Planner will also provide expert advice and guidance on planning issues and provide technical supervision to current and long range planners on matters related to development review, major projects, land use code updates, and long-range planning.This position requires substantial skills in the areas of project management, technical analysis, customer relations, collaboration, leadership and technical training of staff. The incumbent will exercise considerable judgement, independence and initiative in making recommendations.  

Equity Statement
The City of Issaquah strives to be a diverse workforce that is representative of the community we serve. We value a variety of perspectives and life experiences and encourage people of all backgrounds to apply. Applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, color, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, religion, national origin, marital status, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other protected status under federal, state and local laws. We believe diversity and inclusion among our teammates is critical to the success of our City operations.

Position Duties

• Provide technical and strategic leadership for major planning initiatives, including long-range planning for transportation, comprehensive plans, neighborhood plans, and special projects as assigned.
• May lead interdepartmental teams or serve as project manager for consultant-lead planning studies
• Represent the City in regional planning forums and interagency working groups
• Support Planning Division Manager by helping align the Division’s work with Council priorities and citywide goals.
• Develop, evaluate, and refine planning policies and regulations. 
• Advise leadership on regional planning policy and legislative implications for City plans and priorities
• Collaborate on code amendments and plan updates to align City regulations with long-range policy direction.
• Conduct complex planning analyses and prepares reports for high-level decision-makers. 
• Interpret data and technical studies to inform policies, projects, and performance measures.
• Oversee specialized planning functions such as large-scale new development proposals and environmental studies
• Perform and manage complex and sensitive professional planning projects, research and analysis

• Participate in or lead public meetings, hearings, and workshops to engage with the community and gather input.

• Supervise and monitor division-related planning issues such as review and administration of land use, zoning, environment and related development regulations.  
• Serve as liaison and perform all necessary functions in support of the Planning Policy  Commission. 
• Interpret City code and policies in cases of questions and ambiguities.  
• Partner with planners and other divisions to ensure efficient processes for plan review and division coordination. 

• Ensure compliance with relevant laws, regulations, and standards.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in urban planning, landscape architecture, environmental science, geography, Public Administration, or a related field;
• Seven or more years of progressively responsible experience in planning or a related field, with a focus on project management and policy development; or

• Any combination of education, experience and training that provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities.
• American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) certification preferred. 

Other Qualifications

• Knowledge of:
  • Strong knowledge of planning principles, practices, and regulations.
  • Proficiency in planning software and tools (e.g., GIS, AutoCAD).
  • Familiarity with local, state, and federal planning regulations.
  • Personal computers including word processing, database, and spreadsheet applications.

• Skill in:

• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Excellent organizational and project management skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and relevant software.

• Ability to:
  • Anticipate and resolve problems before a crisis ensues.
  • Plan, organize, coordinate, and implement meetings with the public.
  • Coordinate, analyze, and utilize a variety of reports and records.
  • Communicate effectively, verbally and in writing.
  • Work collaboratively with diverse groups and individuals.
  • Establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees, supervisors, other agencies, and the public.