Due to internal staff promotions, we are excited to recruit one Planner II and one Senior Planner to join our Planning team. Working for the Town of Wake Forest Planning Department isn't just a job – it's an opportunity to contribute to a special place's unique character and future. Here's what makes us stand out:

Our Organizational Culture: The Town's vision is that Wake Forest's vibrant, diverse, and welcoming community fosters its distinct character, thriving economy, and high quality of life. Our Core Values are Caring, Commitment, Character, and Collaboration. Each quarter, we highlight one value and have peer nominations to recognize exemplary work. The Town hosts a Toastmasters group, Supervisory Bootcamp, Leadership Academy, Effective Supervisory Practices course, and other professional growth opportunities. We also provide at least three annual Employee Appreciation food truck events.

Make a Real Difference: You'll help shape the physical landscape and guide the thoughtful growth of our community. From reviewing development proposals to contributing to long-range plans, your work will have a lasting impact on Wake Forest residents.

A Collaborative and Supportive Environment: We foster a close-knit team where your ideas are valued. You'll work alongside experienced professionals dedicated to mentorship and growth. Most of our staff are Certified Zoning Officials, AICPs, or both. Over the past five years, the department has won eight state Planning and Historic Preservation awards. We regularly hold team-building events to celebrate accomplishments.

Engaging and Diverse Projects: Work on a variety of projects that keep your days enjoyable and challenging, including zoning, site plan review, comprehensive planning, transportation, and historic preservation.

A Commitment to Innovation: We embrace forward-thinking approaches and utilize technology to enhance our planning processes and promote sustainability. Your input on innovative solutions will be welcomed. We offer hybrid work-from-home options after a six-month introductory period.

Work-Life Balance Matters: We prioritize a healthy balance and strive to create a supportive environment. The Town offers Wellness Wednesday once a month, allowing employees to leave early for wellness needs. We offer free access to recreational facilities and discounted youth athletic programs for employees' families. Our department also offers opportunities for management leave and flex time.

Located in a Charming and Growing Town: Wake Forest offers a high quality of life with a historic downtown, beautiful parks and greenways, a growing arts scene, and a strong sense of community. Town Hall is downtown, within walking distance of lunch spots and other amenities. Our office is being remodeled and will be shared by Planning and Engineering. It should be open by early 2026.

Opportunities for Professional Development: We invest in employees' growth through training, workshops, conferences, and other opportunities to expand planning knowledge and skills.

Competitive Benefits Package: The Town offers a comprehensive package, including health, dental, vision, and life insurance, long- and short-term disability, retirement plan, paid time off, parental and elder care leave, non-matching required 401k contributions, longevity pay, Employee Assistance Program, Flexible Spending Accounts, and more. After a six-month probationary period, you will also receive a 5% salary increase.

What You'll Do (Planner II or Senior Planner)

• Review development applications for ordinance and plan compliance
• Provide technical guidance to developers and residents
• Conduct site visits and investigations
• Prepare reports and presentations for boards and commissions
• Assist with long-range plans and policies
• Support special projects and public outreach

Hiring Ranges:

• Planner II: $71,543 - $72,500
• Senior Planner: $81,909 - $85,000

Senior Planner – Development Services Duties

• Guide development projects through review processes
• Review rezoning, special use permits, variances, site plans, subdivisions
• Prepare reports and presentations
• Lead Technical Review Committee meetings
• Meet with stakeholders to clarify regulations
• Respond to land use inquiries
• Support Town boards and conduct compliance inspections
• Manage special projects

Planner II – Development Services Duties

• Oversee project reviews and agency coordination
• Review land use applications for compliance
• Draft reports and staff recommendations
• Lead review committee meetings
• Support developers and public with regulation guidance
• Conduct site inspections
• Execute assigned projects and duties

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Senior Planner:

• Deep knowledge of planning and development practices
• Understanding of environmental/socio-economic planning impacts
• Familiarity with laws, policies, and programs
• Strong communication and analytical skills
• Team player with sound judgment

Planner II:

• Solid knowledge of community planning practices and laws
• Up-to-date with planning trends and publications
• Works well independently and as part of a team
• Able to interpret technical info and prepare clear reports
• Builds effective working relationships

Education & Experience

Bachelor's in urban/regional planning, geography, architecture, engineering, or related field with relevant professional experience. Master's degree preferred.

Special Requirements

• Valid North Carolina driver's license
• AICP certification required (or within one year)
• NC Zoning Officials certification required (or within one year)

Physical Requirements

• Perform physical functions like climbing, stooping, reaching, walking
• Lift/move up to 10 lbs occasionally
• Visual acuity to read, inspect sites, use computer tools

We welcome applicants who are passionate about planning and public service. Come help shape Wake Forest's future!