Planning Manager

Under the general administrative direction of the Community Development Director, the Planning Manager is a key leadership position responsible for planning, directing, managing, and overseeing assigned planning programs, services and activities within the Community Development Department.

The Planning Manager performs advanced professional planning work involving current and long-range planning, land use and development review, implementation and updates to the Comprehensive Plan, review of zoning and development applications, preparation of code amendments and ordinances, and coordination of special projects.

The ideal candidate will :

• Be an experienced municipal planning professional with strong technical planning expertise, sound judgment, and the ability to lead complex projects from concept through implementation.
• Be comfortable managing both current and long-range planning work, interpreting land use codes and policies, and preparing clear, legally defensible staff reports and recommendations.
• Have experience presenting recommendations to the Planning Commission, City Council, Hearing Examiner, and other public bodies.
• Be a collaborative supervisor and team leader who can assign and review work, support professional development, manage competing priorities, and help build a high-performing Community Development team.
• Demonstrate initiative, professionalism, strong communication skills, and a commitment to responsive public service.

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS

The annual range is $123,876 - $140,784. Placement within the range will be dependent upon the qualifications and experience of the selected candidate. An excellent benefits package provides medical insurance, dental and vision coverage, life, and long-term disability insurance. Paid Time Off starting at 21 days per year. Eleven paid holidays per year. Employee Assistance Program. Washington State Public Employees Retirement System, and Deferred Compensation Retirement Plans with a City contribution.

To Apply and View the Full Position Profile and Job Description, Go to

Open until Filled - First Review is June 22, 2026 @ 5 pm Pacific Time

The City of Stanwood is an Equal Opportunity/ADA Employer. We are committed to a diverse workforce and do not discriminate based on race, creed, color, national origin, disability, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or age.

Education and Experience:

Possession of a bachelor's degree in urban planning, geography, or a related field;

Eight (8) years of increasingly responsible professional planning experience, including two (2) years of administrative and supervisory responsibility; or

Any combination of education and experience necessary to perform the essential functions of the position.

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