Professional Planning Jobs
Professional Planning Job listings on this site are posted for three months or until the posted deadline. MAP will also post the ads on social media. Job ads cost $75. To submit a job ad, email the description to avansen@planningmi.org and place "job ad" in the subject field.
Posting requirements: Ads shall be submitted in word, and contain no more than 250 words. We are happy to add links and/ or one pdf attachment.
10/15/2025
Safe Routes to School Senior Contracts and Data Coordinator
Safe Routes to School and Michigan Fitness Foundation
Safe Routes to School Senior Contracts and Data Coordinator
Safe Routes to School and Michigan Fitness Foundation
FTE/CLASSIFICATION: 1.0 FTE/Exempt
REPORTS TO: Director of Safe Routes to School
SUPERVISES OTHERS: No
COMPENSATION: $55,000-$65,000 plus benefits
EDUCATION: Bachelor’s degree in community development, education, urban planning, or related fields of study. Advanced degree preferred.
DESCRIPTION: The Safe Routes to School (SRTS) Senior Contracts and Data Coordinator partners with Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) and in-state communities to support funding plans to increase pedestrian infrastructure and non- infrastructure programming. This position administers SRTS subcontracts and invoice processes with the state departments, universities, nonprofit agencies, schools, and communities to ensure compliance with federal and state guidelines. This position coordinates the delivery of grant awards and assists with the implementation of noninfrastructure programs to increase student bicycle and pedestrian
travel to and from school.
LOCATION: East Lansing, MI
HOW TO APPLY
Email your cover letter, resume, and writing sample to Kendra Keyes at kkeyes@michiganfitness.org by November 7, 2025, or until a suitable candidate is identified. Include SRTS Senior Contracts and Data Coordinator in the subject line.
Posted October 15, 2025
10/10/2025
Economic Development Manager
City of Sterling Heights
Economic Development Manager
City of Sterling Heights
Salary: $115,000 - $141,000
Position Summary
Under the direction of the City Manager, the Economic Development Manager provides strategic leadership in managing the City’s Economic Development program and is responsible for developing, recommending, promoting, and implementing goals, strategies, and policies to provide businesses, community leaders and organizations, and residents with information, guidance, and support.
Minimum Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Economics, Business Administration, Urban Planning, or related field; a Master's Degree is preferred.
- Minimum of five (5) years of progressive experience in economic development or a related field.
- Strong project management skills with a proven ability to oversee complex initiatives.
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, both written and verbal.
- Proficiency in data analysis, market research, and economic trend analysis.
- Demonstrated ability to secure grants and funding for economic development projects.
- Proficiency in using tools such as Microsoft Office Suite and data analysis software.
- Knowledge of local zoning, permitting processes, and economic development regulations.
- Knowledge of local, state, and federal economic development programs, issues, and trends. Ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, and adapt to changing circumstances.
- International Economic Development Council Certification CEcD desired.
For the full job description, click HERE
Click HERE to access the Summary of Compensation and Benefits!
Recruitment Brochure: Economic Development Manager Recruitment Brochure
Application link: City of Sterling Heights Job Page
Questions about the role? Reach out to hr@sterlingheights.gov
Posted October 10, 2025
10/03/2025
Planner 1 - Zoning
Manistee County
Planner 1 - Zoning
Manistee County
Manistee County is seeking a qualified individual to fill its full-time Planner 1 Zoning Administrator position. Under the direction and supervision of the County Planning Director, and the indirect supervision of the Manistee County Planning Commission through the County Planning Director, provides a full range of entry level planning duties and zoning administration. Acts as point of contact for zoning issues and zoning processes. Receives and processes applications, prepares reports, maintains records, performs general bookkeeping and other tasks. Assists the County Planner as requested with zoning amendment preparation, planning document preparation and other duties of the County Planning Department as requested.
Employment qualifications include a bachelor’s degree in Urban Planning, Regional Planning, Environmental Planning, Public Administration/Policy, Park and Recreation Administration or Environmental Science. Knowledge of the principles and practices of planning. Knowledge of principles and practices of research, data collection, and effective writing techniques.
Statistical, algebraic, or geometric knowledge and ability to apply such knowledge in practical situations. Computer proficiency a must. Must possess a Michigan Vehicle Operators License and be able to attend evening meetings.
Salary range: $48,615-$63,200 Full benefit package included
Job description available here and at www.manisteecountymi.gov
Cover letter, copies of all college transcripts, and resume including references should be submitted to Julie Griffis, HR Generalist, Manistee County Courthouse, 415 Third Street, Manistee, MI 49660. jgriffis@manisteecountymi.gov. Resumes are due no later than October 17, 2025. EOE
Posted October 3, 2025
09/25/2025
Staff Planner II
City of Farmington Hills
Staff Planner II
City of Farmington Hills
Job Description
Under the supervision of the City Planner, perform a diverse range of highly responsible professional administrative tasks to support the Planning Office. Staff liaison to the Historic District Commission, Historical Commission and, when needed, the Planning Commission.
Salary: $70,767 - $80,987
Detailed Job Description – Staff Planner II
How to apply
All candidates must complete an online application through the Government Jobs website in order to be considered for a position.
Paper applications will not be accepted. If this is the first time you are applying using our online job application, you will need to create an account and select a username and password.
After your account has been established, you can then submit an application. This application can be saved and used to apply for more than one job opening.
If you have any questions or concerns while applying, please contact the HR Department by e-mail at jobs@fhgov.com.
Posted September 25, 2025
09/16/2025
Planning and Development Services Deputy Director
Charter Township of West Bloomfield
Planning and Development Services Deputy Director
Charter Township of West Bloomfield
Salary: $80,874.22 – $123,078.04
General Summary:
The Deputy Director is an assistant department head position. Responsible for assisting in the daily oversight and special assignments of staff within the Planning, Development Services and Building departments. Assists in the directing of the planning, facilities, engineering, building and environmental activities. Assists in the coordination and supervision of the operations and activities of the building, permit center and building inspectors. Includes proper administration of the State Building Codes and Township Ordinances. Duties delegated or assigned by the Director of Planning and Development Services are carried out with moderate independence and latitude with the Director being consulted on policy issues and unusual situations.
Daily focus is on customer service, staffing, project management and the mentoring of staff within the divisions. Provides overall support to ensure the achievement of successful department and Township goals.
Qualifications:
- Education – Bachelor’s degree required. (Construction Management, Planning, Engineering, Architecture or a closely related field required)
- AICP, Professional Engineer or Building Official Certification Act 407 certification preferred (registered as building inspector, plan reviewer and building official ICC-CBO certification).
- Three to five years of experience in progressively more responsible municipal or urban building, planning, permitting and staff supervision.
- Working knowledge of BS&A or similar computer system
- Above average writing and report development skills required.
Please visit our website for information on how to apply https://wbtownship.org/jobs/
Position open until filled
Posted September 16, 2025
09/16/2025
Director of Planning and Community Development
City of Buchanan
Director of Planning and Community Development
City of Buchanan
The City of Buchanan is seeking an experienced professional to serve as its next Director of Planning & Community Development. This leadership role manages the City’s planning, zoning, code enforcement, building services, housing initiatives, rental registration, and parks/recreation planning, while also supporting brownfield redevelopment efforts.
The Director will work closely with the City Manager, Planning Commission, developers, and community partners to guide sustainable growth and enhance quality of life in Buchanan.
Key Responsibilities:
- Oversee planning, zoning, and development review processes
- Manage code enforcement, property maintenance, and blight elimination
- Supervise building inspections and the Rental Registration Program
- Lead housing programs and recruit new residential development
- Plan and implement park and recreation improvements
- Support the City’s Brownfield Redevelopment Authority
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Urban Planning, Public Administration, Business or related field
- 5+ years of progressive planning/community development experience, including leadership responsibility
- Knowledge of zoning, land use law, and code enforcement
- Strong communication, project management, and organizational skills
- Grant writing/administration experience a plus
This is a unique opportunity to shape Buchanan’s future through innovative planning and community investment.
Full job description and application details available at https://www.cityofbuchanan.com/jobs
Posted September 16, 2025
09/15/2025
Senior Planner
Charter Township of White Lake
Senior Planner
Charter Township of White Lake
White Lake Township is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Senior Planner to join its Community Development team. The Senior Planner will serve a key role in responding to inquiries from the public and Township employees regarding planning policies, ordinances, and project status. This position is responsible for attending occasional Planning Commission and Township Board meetings, and leading regular Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) and Parks & Recreation Committee meetings, which include assembling agendas and packets and coordinating all aspects of those meetings, including staffing, reviews, and agenda preparation. The Senior Planner will also draft legal notices for rezonings, special land uses, and ordinance and master plan amendments.
The Senior Planner will oversee and delegate tasks to support staff, assist in preparing the Township’s annual Capital Improvement Program, and complete administrative site plan reviews. The role also includes periodically updating the Township’s five-year Parks & Recreation Master Plan and managing various park improvement projects, both large and small. The Senior Planner will work collaboratively with the Community Development Director and other departments to coordinate activities and events, engage with schools and community groups, issue press releases, and aid in preparing and managing grant applications. Additional duties include managing minor purchases for park facilities, updating maps and records, reviewing zoning violations, and coordinating private road application reviews. Other responsibilities may be assigned by the Community Development Director as needed.
The salary range is from $79,299 - $89,108 and includes generous paid time off and holidays, plus comprehensive health insurance benefits. Insurance benefits include optical, dental, and life insurance. The Township also belongs to the MERS defined benefit pension plan
Please submit a cover letter, and resume with an application. Applications and the complete job description can be located on the White Lake Township website at https://www.@whitelaketwp.com/jobs .
Applications will be accepted until filled: First resume review 10/01/2025.
Please send materials to: Robin Myers, HR Generalist rmyers@whitelaketwp.com
White Lake is an equal opportunity employer – M/F/D/V.
Complete job description here.
Posted September 15, 2025
09/10/2025
Zoning Administrator
City of Grand Ledge
Zoning Administrator
City of Grand Ledge
Open Until Filled: First Resume Review 10/6/2025
JOB SUMMARY: Under the general direction of the City Manager, administers, analyzes and enforces zoning ordinance provisions. Assists with developing, maintaining and implementing the City’s Master Plan. Enforces City codes related to blight prevention, and all other ordinances as required. Includes but not limited to:
- Performs all duties according to City Charter Section 7.12. Zoning Administrator, and all other duties as may be prescribed by state law, and the ordinances and resolutions of the City Council, or as directed by the City Manager.
- Develops checklist of zoning requirements for public use, responds to requests for information. Assists residents in completing building permit and site plan applications.
- Processes requests for the Zoning Board of Appeals and Planning Commission.
- Serves as the City staff representative for the Planning Commission, the Zoning Board of Appeals and other governing bodies as required.
- Assigns and changes addresses, coordinates address changes with Post Office and 911 system.
JOB QUALIFICATIONS:
- Bachelor’s degree in planning, land use/zoning, public administration or related field, or equivalent.
- 1+ years of work experience in municipal planning or zoning.
- Thorough knowledge of planning and land-use issues.
- Enforces all codes and ordinances are required.
- Compliance with City Charter Sec. 7.12 Zoning Administration
- Ability to establish effective working relationships and use good judgment, initiative and resourcefulness.
APPLY: For a full job description and application instructions, visit: www.CityofGrandLedge.com/Jobs
View a PDF job description here.
Posted September 10, 2025
08/29/2025
Associate Planner
Central Upper Peninsula Planning and Development Regional Commission
Associate Planner
Central Upper Peninsula Planning and Development Regional Commission
The Central U.P. Planning and Development (CUPPAD) Regional Commission invites qualified planners to apply for a position on our team of dedicated professionals. The Associate Planner is an entry-level, full time planning position that will primarily focus on providing expert technical assistance to communities across our six-county region, while also providing support and analysis on GIS applications.
The ideal candidate will be a motivated self-starter with strong communication skills who is passionate about helping small towns revitalize and adapt to the changing world. Experience with the fundamentals of community planning and familiarity with modern virtual public engagement methods is essential.
This position allows working from home from anywhere within the central U.P., a true four-season paradise for the outdoor enthusiast seeking a great work-life balance. If you are a planner passionate about small towns and rural areas, please review our job description and consider applying.
CUPPAD offers a competitive benefits package, and the starting wage for this position is $23.00/hour ($47,840/year). To apply, please send a cover letter, resume, and professional references to Dotty LaJoye, Executive Director at dlajoye@cuppad.org.
A complete job description is available here: Associate Planner Job Description
Application Deadline: Open until filled
Posted August 29, 2025
08/27/2025
Zoning Coordinator – AFSCME Union Position
City of Ann Arbor
Zoning Coordinator – AFSCME Union Position
City of Ann Arbor
Starting Salary:
$28.44/hour ($59,155 annual) – Non-negotiable starting salary with potential to grow over time up to $40.15/hour.
Role Summary:
Responsible for zoning enforcement and coordination work in the administration of the City Zoning Ordinance.
Work involves assisting in the administration of the City’s zoning program through coordinating all zoning compliance and appeal actions with the Planning Department and the Zoning Board of Appeals. Work entails reviewing requests for construction and land use changes to ensure that the zoning ordinance is followed and that requests for variances and violations are properly processed.
Training and Experience Required:
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited four-year college or university with major course work in urban planning or public administration,
- At least three years of experience in zoning administration or a related field
- At least one year of experience conducting site visits with research, determining if violations exist.
Benefits:
Benefits to this position are summarized here:
For more information reference the AFSCME collective bargaining agreement: AFSCME Union Contract
To apply for this position:
To view additional details and to Apply please click on the following link: A2 JOBS - Zoning Coordinator
Posted August 27, 2025
08/25/2025
Associate Planner
City of Dexter
Associate Planner
City of Dexter
Starting Salary: $50,000 - $60,000+ (DOQ)
Full-Time + Benefits, Exempt
First Review of Applications: Friday, September 12, 2025
The City of Dexter is seeking an Associate Planner to serve in the Community Development Office. This position provides professional planning services related to the City's Master Plan, Zoning Ordinance, and General Code of Ordinances.
Under the supervision of the Community Development Manager, the Associate Planner performs a variety of duties related to the collection, analysis, interpretation, and presentation of technical land use, environmental, zoning and other City planning data, and ensures compliance with the City's development standards. The Associate Planner is responsible for the coordination, processing, monitoring and documenting of zoning compliance and land use permit applications (such as dwelling/commercial additions, decks, fences, signs, right-of-way, etc.). Tasks such as managing and implementing projects related to land use planning, plan implementation, code enforcement, site inspections, and committee management are also assigned to this position.
Required: Bachelor's in urban planning, architecture, public administration or a related field; and a demonstrated ability to analyze, comprehend, interpret and process detailed information and data, including submittals consisting of site plans, grading plans, utility plans, landscape plans, architectural floor and elevation plans.
Preferred: Master’s Degree in urban planning/related field from an accredited college or university and/or 2 years of experience in municipal or urban planning.
To Apply: A cover letter, City application form, and resume should be e-mailed to Jbreyer@DexterMI.gov. For more information, please e-mail or call 734-580-2234 or see the full posting at:
https://www.dextermi.gov/government/job_and_committee_openings.php
Posted August 25, 2025
08/18/2025
Community Development Planner
City of Bay City
Community Development Planner
City of Bay City
BRIEF JOB SUMMARY
Under the direction of the Planning and Zoning Manager this position:
- Provides professional, technical, and administrative assistance in community planning, zoning, and all other related projects and assignments.
- Serves as the City's liaison to the Zoning Board of Appeals and the Historic District Commission.
- Attends and participates in meetings of the Zoning Board of Appeals, Historic District Commission, Citizens District Councils, and other meetings.
- Responds to daily inquiries from the public and governmental agencies and reviews building permits, sign permits, and fence permits for zoning and code compliance.
SPECIAL JOB REQUIREMENTS
- Flexibility of hours may be required to meet the needs of the Department, boards, and the public.
- Evening meetings are expected.
The Community Development Director may accept any combination of experience, education, skills and certifications, or substitutions at their discretion.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
- Bachelor's degree from a four-year college or university in Planning, Public Administration, Landscape Architect, Geography or related field.
- One (1) or more years of planning experience in local government; and/or an Associate's degree (A.A) from a two-year college in Historic Preservation and two (2) or more years of experience in working with governmental or private non-profit boards or commissions on historic preservation issues.
- Knowledge of Word processing, graphic presentation, BS&A software, Adobe Pro, database and spreadsheet software and general computer operation.
- Must possess a valid driver's license.
See complete job description and how to apply online here.
Posted August 18, 2025
08/13/2025
Zoning Administrator
Weldon Township
Zoning Administrator
Weldon Township
Weldon Township in Benzie County is currently accepting applications for a Zoning Administrator.
A Bachelor’s Degree, with zoning and planning experience is preferred, but not required.
Please contact the Weldon Township Supervisor (weldonsupervisor@acegroup.cc) or Weldon Township Clerk (weldonclerk@acegroup.cc).
Deadline for applications: September 30, 2025.
Posted August 13, 2025
08/11/2025
City Planner
City of Farmington Hills
City Planner
City of Farmington Hills
OPENING DATE: August 11, 2025
CLOSING DATE: Open until filled.
DEPARTMENT/DIVISION: Planning and Community Development
EMPLOYEE GROUP: Teamster
EMPLOYEE STATUS: Full Time - Regular
START DATE: ASAP
WORK SCHEDULE: Monday - Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., with occasional overtime for night meetings
PAY RATE: $84,544 - $103,487
PREVIOUS WORK EXPERIENCE: Minimum 5 years of related experience. Some supervisory experience preferred.
EDUCATION: Bachelor’s degree in Urban Planning or related field. American Institute of Certified Planners Certification (AICP) preferred.
SPECIAL SKILLS & TRAINING: Basic computer skills in word processing, spreadsheet and presentation software. Basic Skills in Geographic Information Systems.
BASIC RESPONSIBILITIES: Supervises planning staff involved in professional, technical and clerical activities related to planning office. Works with planning consultants developing comprehensive plans for community needs, compiling data and evaluating priorities for improvement and development projects. Prepares recommendations and reports to various boards and commissions and City Council. In addition, participates in special studies, maintains records and prepares reports and graphics.
HOW TO APPLY: All candidates must complete an online application. Please create an account and submit online for consideration. See complete job description and how to apply online here.
The City of Farmington Hills is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
We work hard to enable all employees to succeed and, to that end, we welcome diverse talent and cultivate an inclusive environment that encourages collaboration and creativity. We're committed to building a workforce where people thrive by being themselves and are inspired to do their best work every day.
Posted August 11, 2025
08/04/2025
Planning & Zoning Director
Clinton County
Planning & Zoning Director
Clinton County
JOB SUMMARY:
Under the direction of the County Administrator/Controller, directs departmental operations which include planning, zoning and economic development. Supervises support staff and provides staff support to the Planning Commission and Zoning Board of Appeals and the County Board of Commissioners. Participates in various planning & zoning related committees. Serves as the County Zoning Administrator.
$89,739-$98,937 DOQ with an excellent benefit package.
To see the complete job description and to apply please click on the following link. https://www.clinton-county.org/178/Human-Resources
All candidates must submit an electronic Clinton County Application for Employment accompanied by a resume, cover letter and references.
Posted August 4, 2025
07/31/2025
Manager Planning & Community Development
Oakland County
Manager Planning & Community Development
Oakland County
Announcement Information
This posting will close on 8/15/2025 at 5:00 pm.
What You’ll Do:
- Manage operations and staff within the Planning & Local Business Development Division.
- Design and implement programs that support economic growth, community development, and sustainability.
- Coordinate with internal departments, local governments, and regional partners to advance County initiatives.
- Oversee state-mandated planning and zoning responsibilities, contracts, and interlocal agreements.
Required Minimum Qualifications
- Possess a Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited college or university with a major in City, Urban or Regional Planning, Architecture, Economics, Public Administration, or a closely related field.
- Have had at least seven (7) years of full-time professional work experience in the public or private sector in urban or regional planning, development or a closely related area of which at least three (3) years were in an administrative capacity involving supervisory, budgetary, and related administrative functions.
- Possess a professional license, registration, or certification from a recognized licensing agency as an architect, landscape architect, planner, or related profession.
NOTE: A Master’s Degree in one of the education programs listed above may be substitute for one (1) year of experience.
Special Requirements
Must maintain a valid motor vehicle operator's or chauffeur's license.
Pay Range
USD $108,891.00 - USD $145,893.00 /Yr.
Posted July 31, 2025
07/29/2025
DDA Planning Specialist
City of Ann Arbor Downtown Development Authority
DDA Planning Specialist
City of Ann Arbor Downtown Development Authority
Salary: $70,000 - $82,000 (Offer will be commensurate with experience)
Benefits offered for this opportunity: Non-Union Benefits Summary
Role Summary
This position supports the planning and capital project work of the DDA, working to improve the downtown experience for all people and meet the DDA’s mission. This individual performs a variety of complex professional planning and project management tasks.
It is the responsibility of the DDA Planning Specialist to support and lead capital projects, with an emphasis on placemaking, accessibility, and resiliency. This position also researches new best practices, utilizes data tools to track downtown trends and measure DDA impact, works collaboratively with other City units and partner agencies, and prepares and presents oral, written, and graphic presentations. Education, Training and Experience (position requirements at entry)
Required:
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in Urban Planning, Engineering, Landscape Architecture or a closely related field
- At least 4 years of progressively responsible planning, planning-related, or project management experience
- The City of Ann Arbor, at its discretion, may consider an alternative combination of formal education and work experience
Preferred:
- Master’s Degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in Urban Planning, Landscape Architecture or a closely related field
- At least 1 year of supervisory experience
- AICP certification
How to Apply: DDA Planning Specialist
Posted July 29, 2025
