Planning Manager

Role Overview Help shape Modesto’s future as our next Planning Manager! If you’re a visionary leader who thrives on urban planning, innovation, and building vibrant communities, this is your chance to make a lasting impact. Join a team that values creativity, collaboration, and smart growth. Compensation and Incentives 3% COLA effective 7/1/2026 2.5% Education Incentive – Bachelor's Degree 5% Education Incentive – Master's Degree Salary offered depends on candidate’s experience. Responsibilities Plan, organize and direct Planning Division activities including urban growth review, specific plans, land use entitlement, annexation, environmental review, zoning code compliance and enforcement, and the City’s General Plan. Develop and implement divisional goals, objectives, policies and procedures. Direct, oversee and participate in the development of the Planning Division work plan; assign work activities, projects and programs; monitor workflow; review and evaluate work products, methods and procedures. Prepare the Planning Division budget; assist in budget implementation; participate in the forecast of additional funds needed for staffing, equipment, materials and supplies; administer the approved budget. Recommend the appointment of personnel; provide or coordinate staff training; implement discipline procedures as required; maintain discipline and high standards necessary for the efficient and professional operation of the department. Develop, maintain, implement and interpret the comprehensive General Plan; update the General Plan as required. Oversee and evaluate environmental documents prepared in support of specific development proposals and plans. Serve as Secretary to the Planning Commission and the Board of Zoning Adjustment; provide staff and technical assistance to the Planning Commission, City Council and community groups. Represent the division and department to outside agencies and organizations; participate in outside community and professional groups and committees; provide technical assistance as necessary. Research and prepare technical and administrative reports; prepare written correspondence. Build and maintain positive working relationships with co‑workers, other City employees and the public using principles of good customer service. Observe and maintain a safe working environment in compliance with established safety programs and procedures. Perform related duties as assigned. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Principles and practices of urban planning and program development with particular emphasis on environmental review, land usage and growth management. Knowledge of current and emerging trends in the planning field; federal, state, and local laws, codes, rules, and regulations. Leadership, motivation, team building and conflict resolution principles. Organizational analysis and management principles. Budgeting procedures and techniques. Supervision, training and personnel management principles. Computer proficiency with word processing, spreadsheets, and database applications. Abilities Organize, implement, and direct Planning Division operations and activities. Perform the most complex work of the division. Analyze problems, identify alternative solutions, project consequences of proposed actions and implement recommendations in support of goals. Gain cooperation through discussion and persuasion. Interpret, explain, and apply federal, state, local, and department policies, procedures, rules, and regulations. Prepare and administer a budget. Supervise, train and evaluate personnel. Establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with those contacted in the course of work. Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing. Operate office equipment including computers and supporting applications. Experience and Training Five (5) years of increasingly responsible experience in professional urban planning, regional planning, or a related field, including two (2) years of supervisory responsibility. Equivalent to a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in urban or regional planning, geography, or a related field. Master’s degree in urban or regional planning, public administration, or a related field is desirable. Licenses and Certifications Valid California driver’s license. Certification by the American Institute of Certified Planners is desirable. Physical and Working Conditions Frequent use of keyboard; frequent sitting for long periods; occasional bending or squatting. Frequent lifting up to 10 pounds; occasional up to 25 pounds. Frequent reading and close‑up work; occasional color and depth vision. Frequent repetitive motion, writing, grasping, holding, and reaching. Frequent hearing and talking, in person and on the phone. Frequent decision‑making and concentration; frequent public or coworker contact; occasional working alone. Frequent exposure to noise. Work is performed in a typical temperature‑controlled office environment with typical office noise and environment. Some positions may be assigned to remote locations. Positions require occasional overtime or weekend work and the ability to travel. Equal Opportunity Employer Statement The City of Modesto is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to fostering, cultivating and preserving a culture of diversity, equity and inclusion. A City application is required, including Supplemental Questionnaire. The City does not sponsor H‑1B Visas. #J-18808-Ljbffr