Urban Designer

Community Planning & Design Manager City of Wilmington – Wilmington, NC, United States Job Description As Community Planning and Design Manager, you will lead the development of plans, policies, and strategies that guide thoughtful growth and development. This role brings together project leadership, community engagement, policy interpretation, and collaboration with stakeholders to turn vision into action. From managing key initiatives and guiding cross‑functional teams to presenting ideas and recommendations to decision‑makers, this position plays a vital role in how our city grows and evolves. Current And Upcoming Initiatives Master planning for a downtown riverfront district that is home to our new City Hall, the Wilmington Convention Center, Cape Fear Community College, Live Oak Bank Pavilion amphitheater, and over 22 acres of vacant or underused land. Implementation of the recently adopted Greater Downtown Plan, in which the community established priorities for the future of the 18 neighborhoods that were part of the city in 1945 and an action plan to bring that vision to life. Updating the Create Wilmington Comprehensive Plan to address the opportunities and challenges that come with being a growing coastal city. What You’ll Lead And Influence Drive transformational planning efforts including comprehensive plans, corridor studies, neighborhood and small‑area plans, and major policy initiatives that guide long‑term city growth. Shape community vision by coordinating with residents, stakeholders, elected officials, and local, state, and federal partners to bring big ideas to life. Champion meaningful public engagement by designing and leading outreach strategies that ensure community voices are heard, valued, and reflected in city decisions. Influence design and development outcomes through urban design leadership, design review, and strategic identification of funding and grant opportunities. Guide key development decisions by managing the full lifecycle of legislative entitlement reviews—from applicant collaboration and policy analysis to final recommendations. Help prioritize city investments by identifying infrastructure needs and aligning planning efforts with community goals and long‑term priorities. Lead and develop high‑performing teams by mentoring planning and urban design staff, setting clear priorities, and fostering professional growth and excellence. Improve how we work by developing streamlined workflows, modernized procedures, and strong records management practices that support efficiency and accountability. Support influential boards and commissions by preparing agendas, facilitating discussions, and providing trusted technical expertise that informs major decisions. Shape policy and strategy by analyzing trends, monitoring legislation, and translating complex data into clear, actionable planning direction. Serve as a trusted resource to residents, applicants, and partner agencies by making planning information clear, accessible, and easy to navigate. Lead impactful consultant projects by defining scopes, selecting partners, and ensuring projects deliver high‑quality results on time and on budget. Turn data into insight through maps, metrics, and visual tools that inform smarter planning and better decisions. Enhance public communication by ensuring planning information is transparent, engaging, and widely accessible across digital platforms. Qualifications Master’s degree in urban and regional planning, public administration, or a closely related field, and a minimum of five years of related experience, OR a bachelor’s degree in one of the above‑listed fields and a minimum of seven years of related experience. Minimum three years of supervisory experience. American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) certification required. Hiring Range: $96,135 – $122,572 Open until filled; first application review scheduled July 31, 2029. #J-18808-Ljbffr