Planning Division Manager

Planning Division Manager

This position is distinguished by its focus on Division-wide leadership and strategic vision and is responsible for leading the entire Division and supporting cross-functional teams across the organization. Economic development, acting as an executive sponsor who navigates the complex grey areas of land-use law. This includes developing work plans, overseeing major planning projects, and managing the Division budget, where the Manager oversees complex funding mechanisms and ensures optimal resource utilization specific to community development projects. The City seeks a candidate with a get-to-yes mindset, someone who views regulations not as roadblocks, but as frameworks for creative, repeatable, and defendable solutions that help businesses thrive and create jobs.

The Planning Division Manager also serves as a technical authority, interpreting and enforcing zoning regulations, land use codes, and applicable laws to ensure development meets established standards. Furthermore, the Manager formulates and recommends new policies, ordinances, and resolutions that support sustainable planning objectives. Effective communication is a cornerstone of this position, and the Manager must be able to deliver presentations, facilitate public meetings, and articulate complex planning concepts in a clear and accessible manner to management, elected officials, community organizations, and the general public.

The Planning Division Manager possesses a strong administrative foundation, including a firm grasp of local government procurement, budgeting, and administrative processes. Candidates must demonstrate an exceptional learning aptitude and the patience required to absorb the sophisticated regulatory environment Oregon has with its unique land use system and Urban Growth Boundaries. Experience in the private sector is highly valued, as it allows the Manager to stand in the shoes of applicants and understand market conditions.

A significant portion of this role involves providing positive and effective leadership to the City's planning teams. The Planning Division Manager directly supervises the Long Range and Development Services Section Managers, overseeing their performance and professional development. Finally, the Planning Division Manager represents the City's interests on a regional and national stage, engaging with local, regional, and state partners to ensure City efforts remain aligned with broader regional initiatives.

Finally, the successful candidate must be a collaborative partner who maintains exceptional peer alignment, working closely with colleagues in Public Works, Engineering, and Water to ensure unified City messaging. Culturally, the candidate must be inclusion-minded and aware of subtle biases, leading a dedicated team with respect and equity.

At least 10 years of related experience in urban or regional planning, including leadership and supervisory roles, is required. Direct experience building and maintaining a high-functioning team and supervising professional planning staff is essential. Prior experience with annexation and development agreements, zoning regulations, and local government finance and budgeting is beneficial.

A bachelor's degree in urban or regional planning, community development, public administration, or a related field is required. An equivalent combination of experience and education that enables success as the Planning Division Manager will be considered.

The salary range for the Planning Division Manager is $132,070 – $173,795 and will depend on the qualifications of the successful candidate. The City of Hillsboro offers a comprehensive and competitive total compensation package, including high-quality benefits, and prioritizes employee well-being. For a complete breakdown of the City's extensive Benefits Package, please review the Employee Benefits Guide.

Applications will be accepted electronically by Raftelis at raftelis.com. Applicants complete a brief online form and are prompted to provide a cover letter and resume. The position will be open until filled, with a first review of applications beginning June 6, 2026.