City of Decatur Illinois · 16 hours ago
Urban Planning and Zoning Manager
Decatur, IL
Full-time
Onsite
Senior Level
$90K/yr - $116K/yr
5+ years expThe City of Decatur is seeking a seasoned urban planning leader to guide citywide planning, zoning, and land use policy. This role serves as the City’s principal advisor on planning and development while shaping policies and initiatives that support sustainable growth, economic vitality, and quality of life.
Government Administration
No H1B
U.S. Citizen OnlyHiring Manager
Teresa Jackson, MBA, MFA, CCP, SHRM-SCP
Responsibilities
Oversee and direct all Planning Division activities, including MPO functions, while providing leadership and supervision to planning staff
Lead development, implementation, and regular updates of the City's Comprehensive Development Plan and specialized area plans
Design and launch innovative planning initiatives addressing housing, transportation, sustainability, accessibility, and urban design
Oversee administrative functions including budget preparation and monitoring, expenditure tracking, record management, and reporting
Oversee preparation and amendment of the Zoning Ordinance to align with community goals and legal requirements
Review, analyze, and evaluate development proposals, site plans, and land use applications for conformance with zoning and design guidelines
Provide expert guidance to developers, property owners, and consultants on planning requirements and regulatory compliance
Oversee the Decatur Urbanized Area Transportation Study (DUATS), serving as the Municipal Planning Organization (MPO)
Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations, including preparation and submission of required federal reports, plans, and documentation
Coordinate with state DOT, federal agencies, and regional partners on planning and transportation initiatives
Prepare and deliver presentations, reports, and recommendations to the Planning & Zoning Commission, City Council, Technical Advisory Committee, and other boards
Serve as primary staff liaison to the Planning & Zoning Commission and related committees
Facilitate public meetings and community engagement activities
Represent the City at regional planning meetings, professional conferences, and intergovernmental forums
Qualification
Required
Bachelor's degree in urban planning, regional planning, geography, or related field required
American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) certification required within 18 months of hire
5 years of progressively responsible professional planning experience including work in comprehensive planning, zoning administration, land use regulation, or development review
Minimum of 1 year of supervisory or team leadership experience with demonstrated leadership, team-building, and conflict resolution skills
Comprehensive knowledge of urban and regional planning principles, land use law, zoning administration, and Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) operations
Understanding of economic development, housing policy, sustainability, and community design practices
Strong analytical and research skills with ability to collect, interpret, and synthesize complex data
Proficiency with GIS software (ArcGIS or similar)
Excellent written communication skills; ability to prepare concise reports, presentations, and policy documents
Preferred
Master's degree
Local government planning experience
Benefits
14.5 paid holidays per year (including 2 employee-selected days)
Comprehensive health coverage
An excellent pension plan
Paid vacation
Sick leave
Financial support to help cover moving expenses for qualified candidates
Free check-ups, chronic condition management, immunizations, bloodwork, and many free prescriptions for employees and their dependents
Funding available for continuing education and professional development
Company
City of Decatur Illinois
The City of Decatur (population ~70,000) is the largest city and the county seat of Macon County in the State of Illinois.
201-500 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Growth StageLeadership Team
Seth Stark
Chief Data Officer
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