Senior Planner

Position Overview

Senior PlannerExpected Hiring Range: $82,000 - $102,500 AnnuallyFull Salary Range: $82,000- $123,000 Annually  Application Deadline: Monday, November 25th 5:00pm The Town of Vail is currently seeking a Senior Planner to join it's Community Development Team. As a Senior Planner with the Town of Vail, you'll have the unique opportunity to shape one of the most iconic mountain resort communities in the world. This pivotal role blends current and long-range urban planning, guiding the growth and development of Vail in a way that preserves its beauty while enhancing its functionality. You’ll work on high-impact projects that influence the entire town, leading land development regulations, managing special projects, and overseeing code compliance. Beyond technical expertise, you’ll be the go-to resource for mentoring junior planners, collaborating with architects, engineers, and developers to create innovative solutions. Under the guidance of the Planning Manager, you'll play a crucial role in shaping Vail’s future, working both independently and as part of a dynamic team that thrives on solving complex planning challenges.  This is an in-person role based in Vail, Colorado. To apply please include a cover letter, resume and complete the online application. Formal panel interviews are tentatively scheduled to be held the week of December 9th, 2024. Target start date is January 2025. 

Skills / Requirements

Education/Experience: You bring a strong foundation with a Bachelor’s Degree in Land Use/Urban Planning, City Planning, Urban Design, or a closely related field. With at least 5 years of hands-on experience in professional planning, preferably in a fast-paced municipal environment, you're ready to step into a leadership role. A Master’s Degree is a plus, and AICP certification is required to demonstrate your professional commitment. Experience with Colorado land use law gives you an edge in navigating the state's unique challenges.

 

Knowledge: Your deep knowledge of urban planning, zoning regulations, and architectural design allows you to lead Vail’s planning projects with confidence. You're skilled at reading complex site plans, elevations, and topographic surveys and providing insightful recommendations that balance development with community needs.

 

Skills: You are a natural communicator, able to distill complex planning issues into clear, actionable insights for a range of audiences—including decision-making boards and the public. Managing high-stakes projects comes naturally to you, and you thrive in environments where you can influence key decisions. Your proficiency with GIS, permitting systems, and modern planning tools keeps you at the forefront of the profession.

 

Abilities: You’re not just a planner; you’re a problem solver. You excel in collaborative environments, working seamlessly with internal teams and external partners alike. Your ability to juggle multiple priorities while delivering outstanding results sets you apart. As someone who embraces innovation, you're constantly looking for ways to enhance processes and deliver top-tier service to the community.

Culture / Lifestyle / Benefits

Working for the Town of Vail is more than just a job—it’s a lifestyle. You’ll become part of a forward-thinking team that takes pride in maintaining the high quality of life in a renowned resort town. Here, work-life balance isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a commitment. With a flexible Monday-Friday schedule and the occasional evening meeting, you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy Vail’s world-class outdoor recreation. Beyond competitive pay, the Town of Vail offers housing assistance, professional growth opportunities, and a culture that fosters creativity, collaboration, and innovation. You’ll work in an environment where your ideas matter, where every project is a chance to leave a lasting legacy on the community. Join us in creating the future of Vail—one of the most breathtaking places on earth.

Salary : $82,000 - $102,500