Calcasieu Parish Police Jury (CPPJ) is the government agency supporting the needs of constituents of Calcasieu Parish, Louisiana, with a mission to provide high-quality services and actions that benefit present and future generations throughout Southwest Louisiana. The CPPJ seeks an experienced Planning Manager to play a pivotal role in the parish government, overseeing all planning, zoning, and development activities. Reporting to the Director of the Department of Planning and Development, this role will be responsible for comprehensive planning activities, including formulating land use plans, developing policies and special planning studies, identifying goals and objectives, and formulating and implementing policies, plans, and program alternatives. This role is a full-time position based in Lake Charles, Louisiana.

The ideal candidate will have previous experience in urban planning, zoning administration, or land use management, as well as strong communication and relationship-building skills to ensure effective coordination and management of development activities across the parish.

Key Responsibilities

• Provides overall management of division-related planning issues, demonstrating visionary leadership in planning initiatives, developing long-term plans, and driving the department toward strategic goals
• Analyzes and updates planning policies, oversees development proposals, ensures zoning compliance, and manages specialized planning functions, including reviewing and evaluating new development proposals and assessing compliance with zoning and environmental impact
• Conducts site inspections for land use regulation compliance, responds to zoning inquiries, recommends changes, and leads zoning studies
• Interprets comprehensive plans, land use policies, practices, and regulations for the public and employees
• Fosters engagement and develops strong professional relationships with various councils, boards, commissions, developers, development stakeholders and elected officials on planning-related issues, land-use policies, and other development activities, serving as liaison and performing all necessary functions to support the Calcasieu Parish Planning and Zoning Board
• Provides leadership, motivation, guidance, and support to staff, ensuring high-quality work and professional development
• Participates in budget preparations, monitors expenditures, and prioritizes projects and initiatives based on strategic objectives and available funding
• Generates and reviews diverse documents for public distribution and review, including maps, reports, letters, presentations, applications, logs, and related materials, offering suggestions for enhancements
• Coordinates, facilitates, and leads planning meetings with appropriate stakeholders
• Conducts research and drafts land use ordinances by examining regulations from other jurisdictions, consulting with legal counsel, presenting proposals to relevant boards, and supporting approvals and implementation

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in urban planning, landscape architecture, geography, public policy, or a related field is required
• Minimum of five to seven years of relevant experience in urban planning/development, zoning administration, or land use management
• An American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) certification or professional licensing in planning, landscape architecture, or a related field is preferred
• Knowledgeable of applicable local, state, and federal laws, ordinances, policies, rulings, and regulations regarding urban and economic development and incentives
• Proficient in mapping principles and GIS, CAD, and other planning software tools
• Demonstrated track record of taking ownership of planning projects and seeing them through to successful completion
• Familiarity with budgeting, project management, data analysis, and record-keeping techniques
• Comfortable with public speaking and engaging with diverse audiences during meetings, presentations, and public hearing
• Strong attention to detail in all aspects of planning tasks, ensuring accuracy and precision in all processes
• Ability to perform effectively under pressure, be versatile, and use strong organizational skills when faced with competing priorities
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and leadership skills, with the ability to work collaboratively with coworkers, diverse stakeholders, and translate complex topics into accessible language
• Awareness of recent developments in urban planning, zoning regulations, and related fields

Compensation

The salary range for this position will be competitive with the market and commensurate with experience. In addition to base compensation, a comprehensive benefits package will be provided.

How to Apply

Candidates should submit a resume with a cover letter and references to CPPJ@emergentmethod.com.

Additional Information

The Calcasieu Parish Police Jury is an equal-opportunity employer. It does not discriminate against employees or applicants for employment on any legally recognized basis or any protected class under federal, state, or local law.