JOB DESCRIPTION

PLANNER III

Town of Johnstown | Planning and Development Department

The Town of Johnstown is seeking a Planner III to join the Planning and Development Department. This position serves in a lead role within the department, providing mentorship and guidance to other planners while managing complex development projects and supporting the day-to-day operations of the department.

The Planner III works under the direct supervision of the Director and is responsible for leading development review projects from pre-application through permitting and acceptance. The position requires strong organizational skills, sound judgment, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple high-priority projects and deadlines.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead project management of development review and approval processes from pre-application through permitting and acceptance.

• Coordinate, review, analyze, and evaluate complex land use and development applications, including annexations, zoning, subdivisions, site plans, special reviews, variances, and referrals.

• Prepare professional staff reports, supplemental materials, and presentations for Town Council, Planning & Zoning Commission, Board of Adjustment/Appeals, and other groups.

• Provide guidance and support to other planners regarding customer service, records management, code application, and development review.

• Interpret and apply the Town's comprehensive plan, municipal development codes, guidelines, standards, and specifications.

• Research and prepare statistical reports related to land use, development, demographics, housing, and economic development.

• Assist with compliance and enforcement issues and educate applicants and property owners regarding applicable plans, codes, and standards.

• Assist with updates to the comprehensive plan, long-range plans, development code, regulations, and guidelines.

• Serve as a resource and mentor for Planner I and Planner II staff.

• Lead meetings with staff, residents, developers, and other stakeholders.

• Step in for the Planning and Development Director when needed, including organizing public meetings and serving as staff liaison to the Planning & Zoning Commission.

Qualification Requirements:

• Master's degree in planning or a related field and at least four years of municipal planning or comparable land-use/site-planning experience; or

• Bachelor's degree in a related field and at least six years of professional planning experience.

• AICP certification.

• Previous face-to-face customer service experience.

• Development project review experience.

• Valid Colorado driver's license and a safe driving record.

An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.

Candidates should have strong knowledge of development review processes, zoning and development codes, long-range planning principles, and land-use regulations. The position also requires strong written and verbal communication skills, the ability to work independently on large-scale and complex projects, and proficiency with Microsoft Office, project management/tracking software, and ArcGIS.

Work Environment

The position is primarily based in a standard office environment, with approximately 10% of work conducted in the field inspecting development activities at active construction sites and across uneven terrain. Evening meetings may be required.

Salary Grade: 18
FLSA Status: Exempt
Department: Planning and Development

Application Deadline: September 7, 2026

Apply: Town of Johnstown Employment Application

The Town of Johnstown is an at-will employer. This position description is not intended to be an exclusive list of all duties, responsibilities, or requirements associated with the position.