Planner I - Principal Planner DOQ - Comprehensive Planning Division

Job Posting

This job listing closes on 6/4/2026 at 11:59 PM Eastern Time (US & Canada).

Employer: Manatee County Government

Salary: $58,141.44 - $132,236.48 Annually

Location: Lakewood Ranch, FL

Job Type: Full-Time (Salaried)

Job Number: 26-00282

Department: Development Services

Opening Date: 05/26/2026

Closing Date: 6/4/2026 at 11:59 PM Eastern Time (US & Canada)

General Information

Work Location: 9000 Town Center Parkway, Lakewood Ranch, FL 34203 Work Hours: Monday - Friday, 7:00am - 5:00pm (Flexible)

Expected Starting Annual Range: $58,141.44 - $75,583.87

Performs work engaged in Planning and Zoning related functions for programs and/or projects within the Department. Responsibilities include technical, planning, and zoning assignments regarding Comprehensive Plan, Rezones, Developments of Regional Impact, Neighborhood Planning, and regulating the requirements in the Land Development Code. Scope and complexity of assignments will depend on qualifications and experience.

Note: Position level and salary will be dependent on qualifications (DOQ).

Employment screenings, as outlined in the Personnel Policy, Rules, and Procedures Manual, will be conducted in compliance with applicable federal and Florida Laws.

Working Conditions

The work environment may include exposure to high noise levels while performing certain essential job functions. The position requires the ability to lift and move objects weighing up to 25 pounds independently and up to 50 pounds with assistance, with or without reasonable accommodation. The role involves sitting for extended periods while working on a computer. Position requires visual acuity and depth perception, as well as ability to hear and identify sounds. Occasional high stress situations that may involve angry or frustrated citizens. Occasionally required to work other than normal business hours.

Job Description

Essential Functions These are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work performed. The omission of specific duties does not exclude them from the position.

All Levels

Develops planning studies and reports to support the creation and implementation of new or updated plans, programs, and regulations.

Reviews, or assists in the review of building permits or land development proposals and site plans to ensure conformance with applicable plans and code regulations.

Prepares and presents detailed reports on development proposals to management, County Officials, and other stakeholders.

Collects and analyzes a variety of statistical data and prepares reports that may include visual aids such as tables, charts, and maps.

Evaluates or assists in the evaluation of rezonings, ordinance amendments, site plans, special use permits, variances and other developmental proposals.

Updates and maintains the Comprehensive Plan and land development regulations or assists with such updates and maintenance.

Acts as liaison with community groups, government agencies, developers, and elected officials in developing neighborhood plans.

Coordinates community review and input for public and private development projects.

Provides information to the public regarding development regulations, procedures, and requirements.

Resolves, or assists in resolving, citizen and customer issues related to planning and development processes.

Performs other related duties as assigned, including participation in emergency or disaster response activities, as required and consistent with the employee's qualifications, essential job functions, and appliable federal and Florida law.

Additional Responsibilities for Senior Planner and Principal Planner

Leads daily activities of a small team of planners, as assigned. Assigns work and ensures completion according to established standards, procedures, and deadlines. Works effectively with inter-departmental and inter-organizational teams to provide guidance, assistance, and training to less experienced team members.

Manages complex research, planning studies, and development applications to ensure accuracy, compliance, and timely completion.

Reviews and processes complex comprehensive plan amendments, rezonings, annexations, site plans, and plats.

Provides recommendations and input to management on major projects and assignments.

Schedules and conducts meetings with advisory boards, elected officials, and other stakeholders to discuss planning and development projects.

May be assigned to support management in scheduling and/or lead team staff meetings.

May be assigned to support management in leading or conducting presentations at citizens advisory board meetings.

Ensures all assigned staff properly follow all procedures, policies, and regulatory requirements.

Minimum Qualifications

Planner I

Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in Planning, Environmental Science, Landscape Architecture or closely related field, or four (4) or more years of experience in land development, construction/engineering services, or a related area.

Planner II

Bachelor's degree in planning, environmental science, landscape architecture or related field.

Four (4) or more years of professional planning experience and/or two (2) additional years of experience in land development, construction/engineering services, or a related area. A Master's Degree in Urban Planning or related field may substitute for up to 2 years of experience.

Senior Planner

Bachelor's degree in planning, environmental science, landscape architecture or related field.

Six (6) or more years of progressively responsible professional planning experience, to include management of large, complex projects.

A Master's Degree in Urban Planning or related field may substitute for up to 2 years of experience. Previous supervisory or lead experience desired.

Principal Planner

Bachelor's degree in planning, environmental science, landscape architecture or related field.

Eight (8) or more years of progressively responsible professional planning experience, to include management of large, complex projects.

A Master's Degree in Urban Planning or related field may substitute for up to 2 years of experience. Previous supervisory or lead experience desired.

All Levels

Valid driver license required, with valid Florida driver license required within 30 days of hire.

Equivalent combinations of education, training, and experience may be considered in meeting the minimum qualifications for this position.

More

AICP certification desired.

GIS mapping experience desired.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Able to prioritize tasks, deal effectively with competing and changing priorities, and meet deadlines.

Demonstrates accuracy, attention to detail, and strong organizational skills.

Ability to resolve situations and problems of a complexity and scope commensurate with experience.

Knowledge and understanding commensurate with experience of the principles and practices of planning.

Knowledge and understanding commensurate with experience of a relevant specialization such as land use/zoning, transportation planning, environmental planning, urban design, housing, historic preservation or economic development is desired. A general understanding of land surveying and both transportation and environmental planning is also desirable.

Knowledge and understanding commensurate with experience of principles and practices of research and data collection.

Statistical, algebraic, or geometric knowledge and understanding commensurate with experience.

Able to apply such knowledge in practical situations.

Knowledge and understanding of regulatory compliance necessary to successfully perform job responsibilities.

Knowledge and understanding of computer systems and software applications required to perform job duties.

Good verbal and written communication skills, public presentation skills, and interpersonal skills in order to interact professionally and effectively with staff, management, business leaders, elected officials, and other stakeholders.

Possesses the ability to clearly explain facts, policies, and practices, and to influence understanding or decision-making when necessary.

Capable of working with a level of independence and supervision commensurate with experience.

Veterans Preference

In accordance with Florida Statute 295.07, F.S., Chapter 55A-7, priority consideration in employment will be given to eligible veterans and spouses of disabled veterans. Applicants claiming preference must provide a DD Form 214 or other acceptable