What are the responsibilities and job description for the Senior Planner position at City of Spokane Valley?
ABOUT THE CITY: Spokane Valley is a City with a population of approximately 110,000 located on the eastern border of Washington State in the heart of the Inland Northwest. We pride ourselves on quality neighborhoods and schools, along with strong business and retail centers. Friendly people, natural surroundings and beautiful weather are part of what makes our community a favorite destination. Spokane Valley is a high-performing organization and employs the use of best practices. We are a workforce based upon loyalty, accountability, and professionalism. We place a high value on customer service and take a team-oriented, collaborative approach to the way we do business. If working for a fast-paced, evolving organization appeals to you, and you desire a work environment that is intellectually stimulating, respectful and rewarding, we urge you to apply.
ABOUT THE POSITION: Spokane Valley is seeking a highly qualified and enthusiastic employee to serve our City as the full-time Senior Planner in our Community and Economic Development Department. The ideal candidate will perform administrative and technical work related to current and long-range planning including the development and implementation of land use and related municipal plans and policies.
SELECTED EXAMPLES OF DUTIES: Provides leadership and direction in the development of short- and long-range plans and projects. Reviews development and related land use permit applications, site plans, variance, plat applications, etc.; examines applications for compliance with established plans and ordinances, and applicable local, state or Federal regulation; and solicits input from appropriate staff. Provides technical and professional advice; makes presentations to supervisors, boards, commissions, civic groups and the public. Gathers, interprets, and prepares data for studies, reports and recommendations; coordinates department activities with other departments and agencies as needed. Provides information on land use applications, ordinances, codes, plans and related planning programs, services or regulations to architects, engineers, developers, contractors, owners, community groups and interested persons. Evaluates environmental information and recommends mitigation measures to reduce adverse impacts of development. Serves when assigned as a member of a planning task force composed of City, County or State groups. Monitors planning activities of neighboring jurisdictions; assists in the development of regional plans, as assigned. Assists in the development and implementation of the City's comprehensive plan including land use, economic development, utility, housing, transportation, facilities, solid waste or other plans and codes to meet the City's needs and any inter-governmental agreements or requirements. Provides staff support to the Planning Commission as needed and assigned.
DESIRED MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: Education and Experience:* Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with a Bachelor's degree in land-use planning, urban planning, landscape architecture or a closely related field (Master's degree preferred); and seven (7) years' experience in urban planning or related field. Necessary Knowledge, Skills and Abilities*: Thorough knowledge of zoning laws including GMA, SMA, SEPA and other relevant Washington state laws and comprehensive plans including their formation, process of adoption, and enforcement; extensive knowledge of planning programs and processes; and GIS applications; and the ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing.
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: Must possess a valid State driver's license or have the ability to obtain one prior to employment. Successful completion of a background check, including a criminal check, is a requirement of employment at Spokane Valley. AICP certification preferred but not required.
SALARY: Salary range is $6,895 - $10,438 per month (Grade 16) DOQ plus excellent benefit package. This is an in-person represented, FLSA exempt position, in the Community and Economic Development Department.
BENEFITS: Health benefits are provided through the Association of Washington Cities Employee Benefit Trust. The City currently provides medical, dental, life, long term disability, vision, health reimbursement account contributions and Employee Assistance benefits. Holiday, vacation, and other paid leave are provided. The required retirement system of the City is Washington Public Employee's Retirement System (PERS) which requires an employee contribution. The City does not participate in Social Security. However, the City has adopted a MissionSquare 401(A) Social Security substitute plan with the same contribution rates as FICA.
TO APPLY: Interested and qualified persons are invited to submit a complete city application, résumé and cover letter, and list of five (5) work-related references (name and phone number) via our online application system.
APPLICATION DEADLINE: Apply Immediately. Posted August 14, 2025. Position open until filled.
The City of Spokane Valley has a policy of limiting tobacco use in the workplace.
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer
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10210 E. Sprague Ave ● Spokane Valley, WA 99206 ● Ph: ● Fax:
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $6, $10,438.00 per month
Benefits:
- 457(b)
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Retirement plan
- Vision insurance
- Wellness program
Work Location: In person
Salary : $83,000 - $124,000