Planner

Position Title: Senior Planner (Urban Planning / Land Use)

Location: Northern / Western Minnesota (Alexandria, Fergus Falls, Brainerd preferred)

Schedule: Full-time | Standard business hours

Work Environment: Office-based or hybrid

Overview

This is a Senior Planner role focused on land use, community development, and urban planning initiatives across regional communities. The role supports a strong backlog of projects and offers the opportunity to take ownership of key project components, work cross-functionally, and contribute to long-term infrastructure and growth planning.

You will work closely with engineering, environmental, and community engagement teams to deliver practical, forward-thinking planning solutions that align with stakeholder needs and regulatory requirements.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct planning studies including land use analysis, zoning assessments, and environmental reviews

• Analyze spatial and demographic data using GIS tools (ArcGIS preferred)

• Prepare planning deliverables such as comprehensive plans, site plans, and zoning reports

• Support and participate in public meetings, workshops, and stakeholder engagement efforts

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including engineering, design, and environmental groups

• Assist with project schedules, timelines, and coordination with internal stakeholders

• Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal regulations

• Mentor junior planners and support team development

• Incorporate community feedback into planning recommendations

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Urban Planning, Geography, Environmental Studies, or related field

• 2–4 years of experience in urban planning or land use

• Proficiency with GIS tools (ArcGIS preferred)

• Experience with planning tools such as Adobe InDesign or SketchUp is a plus

• Strong understanding of zoning, land use, and planning principles

• Ability to work independently and collaborate across teams

• Comfortable in public-facing environments and stakeholder engagement settings

Additional Requirements

• Valid driver’s license and ability to travel to project sites or meetings as needed

• Ability to attend site visits and community meetings (may involve walking uneven terrain)

• Ability to lift up to 25 lbs as needed

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive base salary (targeting ~$95K–$105K) bonus eligibility

• 100% employer-paid health insurance (employee)

• Dental, vision, and life insurance

• 401K with profit sharing ESOP (employee ownership)

• Flexible schedule and strong work/life balance

• Paid holidays and PTO

• Professional development and continued education support

• Relocation assistance available

Why This Role

• Strong backlog of meaningful planning work

• High visibility across projects and stakeholders

• Collaborative, multidisciplinary environment

• Clear path for growth into senior planning or leadership roles

• Employee-owned company with long-term stability