Planner

Salary: $71,044.73 - $106,567.11 Annually
Location : Avondale, AZ
Job Type: Full Time
Department: Development Services
Opening Date: 09/17/2026
Closing Date: 10/4/2026 11:59 PM Arizona
FLSA: Exempt


Job Description


Performs a variety of duties and assists with current and long-range planning activities including subdivision review, site plan review, building plan review, zoning permit, and application processing. Research and analyze technical data in the field of city planning and assist the public in applying planning and zoning regulations. Review site plans, building design, and signage, and participate in special projects as needed. Project manager for routine land use applications including, but not limited to, Conditional Use Permits, Variances, Rezonings, and Annexations. Conducts plan review, extensive research, and analysis, and prepares background reports on land use, zoning, and other planning-related tasks. Prepares zoning verifications, interpretations, and responds to customer inquiries. Coordinates updates to the General Plan land use map, zoning map, and other informational Geographic Information System data.

Essential Functions


Researches, reviews, and interprets development regulations. Conducts extensive research, analysis and prepares background reports on land use, zoning, and other planning-related issues including zoning verifications, interpretations, variances, and nonconforming rights determinations. Project manager for Conditional Use Permits, Rezonings, Annexations, Variances, interpretations, zoning verifications, design review waivers, site plans, and related applications.

Reviews and processes applications for, but not limited to, business licenses, liquor licenses, special events, minor building permits, construction plans, residential plot plans, swimming pools, landscape plans, and signs to ensure compliance with City zoning, ordinances, and guidelines.

Provides information, technical assistance, and guidance to the public on ordinance requirements, City policies, and review procedures. Provides public counter coverage and researches and reviews applications and special planning projects. Manages and updates GIS maps, including the General Plan, zoning map, and other data. Meets with property owners, attorneys, developers, and other professionals to discuss planning, zoning, and other related issues. Exercises discretion in problem-solving and negotiation.

Prepares staff reports on land use, zoning, and other planning-related issues. Research and prepare public records requests.

As project manager, the Planner is responsible for accuracy in preparing public hearing notices, coordinating with applicants on neighborhood meetings and public hearing schedules, and finalization of project documents and exhibits. Coordinate with applicants in preparation for public hearings and present findings and recommendations at public hearings.

Assists customers with inquiries about land use and zoning, and explains planning documents including the General Plan, Design Manuals, Specific Plans, Zoning Ordinance, and other related planning and development documents.

To view the full job description and learn more about the responsibilities and qualifications, please click to view the Class Specification here

Minimum Qualifications


A Bachelor's Degree in Urban Planning, Urban Design, Land Use Planning, Geography, Public Administration, Architecture, Environmental Design, or a closely related field/knowledge of principles and practices of urban planning, municipal ordinances, and research methods.

Two (2) years of municipal experience is required.

An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered if sufficient to perform the essential duties of the role as listed herein.

Valid Arizona Driver's License or the ability to obtain one within six (6) months of hire.
The City of Avondale offers a comprehensive benefits package with outstanding health and wellness benefits, financial perks, work-life balance, and more. Explore our Benefits Guide for full details! For additional information, visit our
01


Select from the options below your highest level of completed education.

• Not completed High School
• High school or GED
• Associates or Vocational Degree
• Bachelor's Degree
• Master's Degree or higher

02


How many years of experience do you have in Municipal Government?

• No experience
• 0 - 11 months
• 1 year
• 2 years
• 3 years
• 4 years or more

03


How many years of experience do you have with urban planning, municipal ordinances, and research methods?

• No experience
• 0 - 11 months
• 1 year
• 2 years
• 3 years
• 4 years or more

04


This position requires a valid Arizona Driver's License or the ability to obtain one within six (6) months of hire. Which of the following best describes your current licensing status?

• I currently have a valid Arizona Driver's License
• I have a valid out-of-state driver's license that can be transferred to the State of Arizona by the time of hire
• I do not currently have a driver's license, but I am able to obtain a valid Arizona Driver's License by the time of hire
• I am currently unable to meet the driver's license requirement for this position

Required Question