Senior Planner

Shape the future of our vibrant mountain communities while managing high-impact, complex land-use initiatives! The Community Development Dept at Eagle County Government was just approved to hire 2 additional collaborative, forward-thinking Senior Planners to join our dedicated team. If you thrive in a dynamic, growth-minded environment and excel at guiding projects from vision to reality, this is your opportunity to build a better Eagle County for all.


The Senior Planner manages high-priority, complex land use applications and building permits while supporting strategic long-range planning initiatives. Operating with a high degree of independence and professional judgment, the ideal candidate brings an open, collaborative communication style to team projects and lends a focus to exemplary public service.

Salary Range: $81,926-$118,792.

*$5000 bonus: $2500 sign-on bonus, paid out on employee's first paycheck & up to $2500 retention bonus, paid out after 6 months of employment, based on attendance and performance.

Applicants are encouraged to apply by Sept 23rd; however, the job will be posted until filled.
Why You'll Love Working With Us:

• Balance Work with Mountain Living: We believe exceptional public service starts with well-supported employees. Enjoy a supportive schedule that gives you time to hit the trails, ski world-class slopes, and soak in everything Colorado's high country has to offer.
• Monday-Friday, 8:00am-5:00pm with occasional evening meetings. Hybrid work (remote & in office) and/or flexible work arrangements available after training. Travel throughout Eagle County, included but not limited to the Eagle & El Jebel offices.
• Guaranteed Housing Option: 1bd/1ba (brand new) apartments at Parkside Apartments in Edwards - $1750/month.
• A Collaborative, High-Trust Culture: We value growth mindsets, open communication, and cross-departmental teamwork. You'll have the autonomy to exercise your professional judgment alongside colleagues who support your professional development.
• Continuous Growth & Mentorship: Whether you are leading complex land-use initiatives, mentoring junior staff, or pursuing AICP credentials, we invest in your career advancement every step of the way.
• Unbeatable Benefits for Full-time:
• Retirement: 8% dollar-for-dollar employer match.
• Healthcare: Comprehensive medical coverage as low as $85/month for employees.
• Paid Time Off: 15 paid holidays + starting at 12 PTO days + medical leave.
• Perks & Growth: Free tuition at Colorado Mountain College, tool allowances/resources, career progression, bilingual pay incentives, wellness cash rewards, and local bus passes.

Key Responsibilities

• Current Planning & Project Management: Manage a portfolio of 10+ active, high-complexity land-use files. Review applications against Eagle County regulations, state statutes, and federal laws.
• Analysis & Public Presentation: Research site data, analyze environmental impacts, and prepare clear, high-quality staff reports, studies, and GIS graphics. Present recommendations to county boards and officials.
• Public Service & Collaboration: Support "Planner of the Day" duties, lead pre-application meetings, and collaborate with applicants, municipalities, non-profits, and regional partners to align projects with the Eagle County Comprehensive Plan.
• Process Leadership: Facilitate weekly Development Review Team meetings, streamline building permit processes, handle public records in EnerGov, and draft text amendments to land use regulations.
• Mentorship & Strategic Projects: Coach junior planners and support long-range planning initiatives, consultant management, and special projects as needed.

Qualifications & Requirements

• Education: Bachelor's degree in Urban/Regional Planning or a related field (Master's preferred and counts toward 2 years of experience).
• Experience: Minimum 6 years of related planning experience (or equivalent combination). At least 1 year of proven experience managing and presenting complex, politically sensitive land-use files (commercial, mixed-use, or code writing). Local government experience preferred.
• Certifications: Valid driver's license required. AICP certification preferred.
• Technical Proficiency: Experience with Google Workspace, MS Office, and Adobe Acrobat. Familiarity with GIS, document management (Laserfiche), and permitting software (EnerGov) is a plus.
• Key Skills: Exceptional communication, consensus-building, and conflict-resolution abilities. Strong diplomatic and analytical skills. Bilingual (English/Spanish) abilities are desirable.

See full job description here

Culture & Benefits

Working in local government is one of the best career paths in the mountains. 'Your Career will Soar with Eagle County'. Get started with us today!

• Why is Eagle County recognized as a Best Place to Work in 2022? Culture of flexibility and support for mental health / wellness. Check out more awards here.
• Purpose! A modern, values-driven workplace with more than 550 employees embracing a welcoming culture, supportive leaders and an organization focused on our mission: Creating a Better Eagle County for All.
• Learning organization focused on professional development opportunities, FREE CMC classes and Tuition reimbursement.
• Future-focused with our Strategic Plan on improving housing, climate change and more.
• As a certified healthy workplace, our culture recognizes the importance of individual needs and enjoying life outside of work. Other perks may include flexible work arrangements, paid volunteer time, and daytime fitness classes/bike rides.

Great benefits! See the details

• Comprehensive and low-cost medical, dental, and vision insurance (as low as $85/month for employee only)
• Wellness program where you can earn cash or extra days off
• 15 paid holidays
• Paid time off (starting at 12 days) and additional medical leave
• Paid volunteer hours
• 8% (dollar-for-dollar match) retirement plan
• Free classes at Colorado Mountain College
• Eagle County University classes (internal training)
• Tuition reimbursement programs
• Bilingual Pay Incentive
• Free bus pass and more

Relocation & Housing Information

Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.