Senior Planner, City of Spartanburg
The City of Spartanburg is seeking a motivated planning professional to join its growing Planning Department. Spartanburg is at an exciting point in its evolution. The city is experiencing a period where public and private investment is reshaping downtown and creating opportunities across the community. This role provides the opportunity to collaborate with a dedicated team on long-range planning initiatives, support thoughtful growth, and advance the City’s vision.
The Senior Planner manages and advances current and long-range planning projects, conducts research and analysis, develops recommendations, and coordinates planning initiatives. The role interprets and applies zoning regulations, evaluates development proposals, prepares plans and reports, and collaborates with City departments, stakeholders, and the public to guide land use, support responsible growth, and implement the City’s planning goals. Work is primarily performed in an office environment, with site visits and community meetings as needed.
Supports City-led development initiatives by providing in-house planning expertise, technical guidance, and recommendations to inform project decisions. Advises architects, builders, attorneys, contractors, engineers, and the public on City development policies, regulations, and standards. Manages the review of annexations and complex development projects including master plans, mixed-use, commercial, and residential projects. Supports the Planning Team with interpretation and administration of the City’s Zoning Ordinance as related to development plans.
Master’s Degree in Planning, Landscape Architecture, Urban Design or related field Three (3) - Five (5) years of focused planning, architecture, or related experience; OR Any combination of experience and training, which provides the equivalent scope of knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to perform the work. Demonstrated experience in current planning principles, practices, and their applicability. Must possess or be able to obtain a valid S.C. driver’s license. A member of the American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) preferred.
Demonstrated experience in current planning principles, practices, and their applicability. Comprehensive knowledge of fundamental development codes, ordinances, and zoning enforcement. Comprehensive knowledge of local government political processes and operations as it relates to planning and development process. Ability to communicate effectively, verbally and in writing, with strong public speaking and presentation skills. Ability to develop and facilitate effective working relationships inside the organization and externally.
Ability to objectively analyze data and to identify and interpret applicable ordinances and other land use directives. Ability to perform a wide variety of duties and responsibilities with accuracy and speed under the pressure of time-sensitive deadlines. Ability and willingness to quickly learn and put to use new skills and knowledge brought about by rapidly changing information and/or technology. Integrity, ingenuity, and inventiveness in the performance of assigned tasks.