Application Deadline: December 4, 2026

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS:

Planner II: This is the full competent level classification and the second in the series. Incumbents work independently and perform professional planning assignments with limited supervision. This position differs from the Planner I in that in addition to the above incumbents may provide assistance to entry level Planner I and may make presentations to internal and community groups as well as decision-making authorities.

Planner III: This is the advanced level and the third in the series. Incumbents use independent judgment to perform diverse, complex assignments, which require extensive coordination with other land use agencies, County departments and other agencies. Additionally, incumbents are required to make presentations to the public, the Planning Commission and the Board of County Commissioners. This class is distinguished from the Planner II by specialized, diverse and complex assignments, requiring independent judgment while the latter class performs general journey level work assignments.

GENERAL PURPOSE OF JOB:

Assist the community in achieving its current and future objectives through developing relevant projects, policies, processes, and plans. Acts as a technical analyst, researcher, reviewer, program developer, educator, and/or facilitator.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

Planner II:

• Under some supervision performs all essential functions of the I.

• Considers and analyzes the physical, social, and economic aspects of communities and examines the connections between them.

• Helps draft regulations on environmental, social, and economic issues.

• Assimilates information from a collaborative process and possesses knowledge of the following disciplines, among others: economic development, regional design, transportation, housing, tourism, health, sociology, civil engineering, surveying geology, law, water issues, agriculture, and environmental management.

• Visualizes futures, compares alternatives, and describes implications so that public officials and citizens can make knowledgeable choices.

• Interprets population statistics, economic and social data, geographical information, resource inventories, and environmental indicators.

• Stays abreast of local happenings in the community, including development proposals, planning issues, and identified areas of concern.

• May manage special projects at the supervisor’s direction.

Planner III:

• Under minimal supervision, performs all essential functions of the I and II.

• Formulate recommendation plans and policies to meet the social, economic, and physical needs of the community.

• Projects future growth of regions, urban areas, industry and commerce, and recreation and open space.

• Reviews and offers comment on proposed state legislation and other agency referrals.

• Manages high-level, high-visibility special projects as directed by Director, Building & Planning.

• Acts as primary staff person to the Planning Commission and Zoning Board of Adjustment as needed.

• Prepares and writes grant application components as needed.

• Strives to meet the certification requirements of the American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) or actively pursues equivalent training and certifications.

• Assists in training the Planner I & II.

• May assist in developing the planning component of the departmental budget.

CORE COMPETENCIES:

• Public Service: Commitment to serving Garfield County citizens.
• Customer Service: Provides helpful, professional, and courteous service to internal and external customers.
• Stewardship & Innovation: Uses public resources responsibly and seeks ways to improve efficiency.
• Teamwork: Works collaboratively with diverse individuals toward shared goals.
• Business Technology: Effectively uses required technology and adapts to new tools and systems.
• Communication: Communicates effectively through written, verbal, and other required channels.
• Planning Expertise: Understands community planning, land use regulations, and current planning issues, including housing, economic development, and oil and gas.
• Building Regulations: Understands building codes, zoning, land use, environmental regulations, and basic construction practices.

BENEFITS:

• Medical, Vision, Dental
• Disability & Life Insurance
• Retirement Plan
• Paid Vacation & Sick Time
• Employee Wellness Programs
• Employee Gyms

To view the complete benefits information, please visit https://www.garfieldcountyco.gov/human-resources/benefits-brochure/

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

Education (Both Levels):

• Bachelor's degree in planning, community development, or a related field; OR any undergraduate degree combined with a master's degree in regional planning or a related field, such as architecture, landscape architecture, geography, or civil engineering.

Experience:

• Planner II: Three years of professional planning experience.
• Planner III: Five years of planning experience, or three years with a relevant master's degree.

Additional Requirements:

• Valid driver's license.
• AICP certification preferred for Planner III.

PHYSICAL ACTIVITIES AND WORK ENVIRONMENT:

The physical and work environment requirements described are representative of those needed to perform the essential functions of the position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform these functions.

REQUIRED PHYSICAL ACTIVITIES:

• Sitting: Extended periods of sitting at a desk or workstation performing administrative tasks.
• Lifting and Carrying: Occasionally lift and carry office supplies or materials weighing up to 15 pounds.
• Bending and Reaching: Occasionally bend or reach for office equipment, files, and supplies.
• Grasping and Typing: Ability to type, use a mouse, and operate standard office equipment.
• Visual Acuity: Ability to read printed and on-screen materials and visually inspect properties for code issues. 
• Hearing: Ability to communicate with colleagues and respond to telephone calls.
• Walking/Mobility: Occasional walking within the office and during property inspections, including on uneven surfaces.
• Stamina: Ability to maintain focus, productivity, and attention to detail throughout standard work hours

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

The employee may occasionally be exposed to outdoor weather, construction equipment, debris, dust, fumes, odors, electrical and mechanical hazards, and elevated or precarious work areas. Indoor noise levels are moderate, while outdoor noise may occasionally be extremely loud

WORK HOURS & TRAVEL:

• Regular Full-Time position, 40 hours per week.
• Hours are typically 8:00am to 5:00pm Monday through Friday.
• Occasional evening or weekend work may be required.
• Frequent travel within Garfield County is required.

Additional Information

Employment is contingent upon successfully completing a pre-employment background check, including criminal background, employment verification, and motor vehicle record checks.

NOTE: This is not the full job description. To view the complete and detailed job description, please visit here.