Learn more about this organization here: www.clarionassociates.com.

FIRM INFORMATION

Clarion Associates is a nationally recognized consulting firm specializing in community planning and development regulation, with offices in Denver and Chapel Hill. We believe in leading projects that provide our client communities with the tools and momentum they need to make important changes. Clarion has assisted hundreds of cities, towns, and counties across the U.S. to plan for their futures. We are highly regarded as a firm that forms strong partnerships with each of our client communities. We tackle complex projects and find creative solutions that lead to adoption and implementation. Furthermore, we are known for building public support for ambitious local planning and regulatory reform efforts.

JOB DESCRIPTION

We have two full-time senior planner or principal (non-equity senior management) positions open; one in our Denver office and one in our Chapel Hill office. Successful candidates must have demonstrated experience with drafting development codes, one of our core practice areas:

Development Codes: this practice area involves leading regulatory update projects with one or more Clarion team members and subconsultants; communicating with clients, client community leadership, and the public about the regulatory update process; overseeing and assisting with the drafting of innovative and user-friendly zoning and land use regulations to implement local plans; research and analysis of legal requirements and regulatory best practices; review and analysis of existing community policies and regulations; preparation of community outreach materials and facilitation of public meetings; and preparation and completion of detailed code documents.

As a small firm, all team members assist in preparing proposals to win new work, attend client meetings, draft documents, prepare presentations, collect and analyze data, and generally work across projects wherever needed. Our preference is for this to be a hybrid position, with the successful candidate spending at least two days per week working in the office for which they are hired. We will consider a remote position for an applicant with the right combination of experience and skills.

REQUIREMENTS

A new Clarion team member in this position will have the following skills. We recognize, though, that not everyone’s career path and skills will match our list perfectly. We encourage you to apply if you think there is a good fit between your experience, however titled, and one of these positions:

Principal Planner

• A master’s degree in urban planning or a related field with a minimum of seven years of professional work experience;
• Minimum of five years of progressive project management experience, including direct client contact, internal staff oversight, and coordination of sub-consultants as needed during all stages of project development; some project management experience must be with code/regulatory projects;
• Minimum of two years of supervisory experience.

Senior Planner

• Bachelor’s degree in urban planning or related field—master’s degree preferred;
• Minimum of five years of professional work experience;
• At least two years of regulatory experience, preferably in code drafting, editing, and adoption.

Both Positions

• Experience working with elected and appointed officials;
• Excellent writing and oral communication skills;
• Proficiency in the advanced functions of Microsoft Word and Excel;
• Willing to travel both regionally and nationally for client meetings.

EDUCATION AND SKILLS (not required, but will help set you apart)

• Law degree;
• Urban design experience;
• Spanish fluency;
• Experience with InDesign, Sketch-Up, ArcGIS, and Adobe Illustrator.

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS

• Compensation is based on your experience, performance, and location. The salary range is $85,000 – $130,000.
• Clarion Associates offers competitive benefits to all full-time employees, including health insurance coverage, flex plan, 401K plan with a 3% annual employer contribution, 8 personal days and 10 paid vacation days accrued annually to start (up to 20 days paid vacation based on tenure), nine paid holidays, an annual transit pass, coverage of AICP and other professional dues, and a variety of professional development opportunities.

Equal Opportunity Employer
Clarion Associates provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, genetic information, age, or any other status protected under federal, state, and/or local law.

To Apply
Please send a single PDF document with the following information to hiring@clarionassociates.com no later than April 4, 2025:

1. Cover letter and resume;
2. A list of relevant project management experience, including project descriptions, dates, and outcomes and any other information that highlights your project management skills;
3. A recent writing sample from a professional project; and
4. Two to three samples of your graphic abilities (if applicable)

Submissions will be reviewed on an ongoing basis.

Apply here: https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/ashevillenc/jobs/4840808/planning-technician

This Planning technician position will support and grow with the Community planning, Urban design, and Preservation division of the City of Asheville planning department.

Position Details: View complete job listing

Apply Here: https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/hollysprings

The Holly Springs Development Services Department is seeking an intern to work with the Development Services Planning Division. The 2025 internship is expected to run May – August 2025. Flexible schedule with up to 40 hrs/week @ $15-20/hour.

Holly Springs is a fast-growing community located in the Research Triangle region of North Carolina. The Town’s vision is to provide an unmatched quality of life that reflects the joys of small town living in a safe, family-friendly community that residents and businesses are proud to call home. The Land Development Internship positions will work within the recently formed Development Services Department that brings together planners, engineers, and building code officials to promote collaboration, innovation, and efficiency for the development process.

POSITION INFORMATION
Under the supervision of the Planning Division Manager, the Planning Intern will assist the staff on a variety of Planning related projects, which may include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Provide assistance and research in the development, update or implementation of elements of:
  • The Comprehensive Plan,
  • Long-range plan implementation,
  • Ordinance and policy development,
  • Tree Advisory Committee activities,
  • Assisting with the development or maintenance of GIS data layers;
• General Planning office related duties such as filing, copying, other clerical duties as needed and other planning related assignments integral to the daily operations of the team.

The successful candidate should be enrolled in a program specializing in urban or regional planning, geography, landscape architecture, engineering, or closely related field, be proficient in general computer skills (Microsoft Office), have excellent written and oral communication skills, ability to handle multiple tasks, and ability to work independently in a professional environment. Familiarity or experience with GIS software is beneficial but not required.

For information about the Holly Springs Development Services Department, visit us online at https://www.hollyspringsnc.gov/2170/Development-Services

To apply, submit a Town application and resume to Human Resources. Applications can be obtained https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/hollysprings or at (919) 557-2922. Open until filled. EOE.

Apply Here: Carrboro Planning Director

GENERAL DEFINITION AND CONDITIONS OF WORK:

The Town of Carrboro seeks an experienced and highly efficient Planning Director to lead and manage its Planning Department. This role involves complex professional and administrative work in planning, directing, coordinating, and supervising planning, zoning, the Town’s building permitting, minimum housing, and inspection programs, services, and staff. The Planning Director oversees long-range and current planning activities including floodplain and watershed management, Town Engineering/Development Plan Review, Geographic Information Services, administers the department budget, and ensures effective implementation of programs and policies.

THE IDEAL CANDIDATE WILL PROVIDE:

• Technical expertise to advisory boards, commissions, elected officials, and community organizations;
• Formulate, and recommend policies;
• Represent the Town with local and regional agencies.

This role operates under the direction of the Assistant Town Manager with full supervision of department personnel either directly or through subordinate supervisors. 
The position may require work outside normal business hours, including nights, weekends, holidays, or during emergency situations.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Occasional exertion of up to 25 pounds of force.
• Regular activities: speaking, hearing, using hands to handle or feel, and sitting.
• Frequent activities: reaching, standing, and walking.
• Occasional activities: climbing, balancing, kneeling, and crawling.
• Visual acuity is required for reading maps, charts, and written data, operating computers, and observing interior and exterior conditions of land areas and infrastructure, construction sites, and buildings, performing inspection work.
• Occasional exposure to outdoor weather conditions.

Reasonable accommodations will be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Department Oversight:
  • Administers, plans, organizes, direct, and enforce all Planning Department programs, including zoning, subdivision regulations, watershed protection, flood control, hazard mitigation, and transportation.
  • Supervises, directs, and evaluates department staff, including hiring, scheduling, training, and performance management.
  • Prepares and implements annual planning work programs and department budgets, including managing consultant contracts.
  • Coordinates development review with internal and external review partners.
• Policy Administration:
  • Administers and enforces laws, rules, ordinances, and policies related to planning and zoning; interprets ordinances and issues permits.
  • Coordinates with the Assistant Town Manager on long-term planning and zoning-related projects and manages long-range planning efforts, including land use, transportation, and open space.
  • Manages updates to the Land Use Ordinance and prepares amendments to ordinances as needed.
• Public and Regional Engagement:
  • Oversees preparation of data, staff reports, and recommendations for Town Council, advisory boards, and other committees.
  • Conducts public outreach and community education on planning and zoning issues.
  • Represents the Town at local, regional, and community meetings.
• Specialized Responsibilities:
  • Serves as Floodplain Manager and ensures the Town’s eligibility in the National Flood Insurance program.
  • Serves as Watershed Administrator and ensures the Town’s compliance with local and State regulations associated with watershed management/protection.
  • Coordinates with regional agencies on joint programs, grants, and environmental initiatives.

• Major Initiatives
  • Unified Development Ordinance Rewrite: Lead the initiative to update and streamline the Town’s zoning and development regulations to promote sustainability, equity, and growth management.
  • Downtown Area Plan Creation: Oversee the creation of a comprehensive downtown development plan that balances economic growth with preserving Carrboro’s unique character.
  • Comprehensive Plan Initiatives: Lead and contribute to long-term planning initiatives that guide the Town’s growth and development over the next decade.
  • Transportation and Greenway Projects: Oversee transportation and greenway development projects to improve mobility, sustainability, and quality of life for residents.

 

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

• Bachelor’s degree in Urban Planning, City and Regional Planning, Environmental Science, Landscape Architecture, Public Administration, Geography, or a related field. Masters degree preferred.
• Minimum of seven years of experience in planning or land use, including a minimum of four years’ experience in positions with progressive responsibility up to and including senior-level position, budget administration, and supervisory experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• AICP certification required.
• Certified Zoning Officer (CZO), is desired, and certified Floodplain Manager (CFM) certification is obtainable within 6 months of employment.

 

SPECIAL CERTIFICATIONS AND LICENSES:

• Possession of a valid North Carolina driver’s license with an acceptable driving history.

 

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

• Extensive knowledge of advanced principles and practices of planning, including rural, regional, and urban planning. Comprehensive understanding of demographics, economics, finance, environmental conditions and regulations, community engagement and equity, and transportation and mobility as they apply to planning. Familiarity with code and building inspection processes, recent developments in planning, and principles of urban design and civil engineering as related to planning.
• Strong ability in data analysis, presenting technical reports, and making recommendations based on trends and findings. Proficient knowledge of GIS and general office software to support data-driven decision-making and enhance departmental functions.
• Ability to develop goals and priorities, cast a clear vision for the department, and educate staff both within the department and across the organization on the value and significance of the department’s roles. Skilled in creating a working environment that encourages curiosity, explores opportunities for improvement, and embraces change.
• Ability to establish and maintain strong, collaborative relationships with Town leadership, other municipal departments, local, regional and state agencies, elected officials, and community organizations. Foster trust and transparency with residents, businesses, and stakeholders, ensuring effective communication and inclusivity in decision-making processes.
• Ability to continuously seek and implement innovative solutions to improve departmental processes and enhance overall effectiveness. Skilled in promoting a culture of efficiency by streamlining workflows, optimizing resource allocation, and ensuring timely service delivery. Demonstrated capacity to encourage staff development and foster an environment that values continuous improvement, creativity, and effective problem-solving.

Apply Here: Carrboro Planning Director

The City of Raleigh has an exciting opportunity to Intern with our Planning and Development department’s Comprehensive Planning team! 

Through a combination of workshops, mentorship, hands-on projects, and networking opportunities, the intern will develop the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in various roles within the public sector. Students will work closely with experienced municipal government professionals, contribute to important projects and develop valuable skills in public administration. The intern experience includes a staff mentor and broad exposure to a wide range of public planning-related processes, including governing body, board/commission, and internal departmental meetings.

This is a temporary, hourly position without benefits

• Undergraduate Students: $17 per hour
• Graduate Students: $20 per hour

 

Duties and Responsibilities

The Comprehensive Planning Intern will primarily support the development of Raleigh’s Next Comprehensive Plan. There will also be opportunities to work on special projects to support the public engagement and research work of the division.

Specific tasks include:

• Contributing to policy development by helping convene and facilitate working groups of subject matter experts to develop policies in key areas of the next comprehensive plan
• Supporting public engagement by developing surveys and other engagement tools
• Researching best practices and innovative strategies for capital needs planning, sustainable growth management, and stabilization planning
• Supporting implementation of the city’s BRT system through planning projects and city initiated rezoning initiatives

 

Typical Qualifications

Must be enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate program and a student in good academic standing. Preference for students enrolled in a program leading to a degree in City and Regional Planning, Urban Design, Public Policy, Public Administration, or Communications. No previous office experience required. To perform this job successfully, an individual should have a strong working knowledge of Office Suite software. Knowledge of GIS/Arcview and/or Adobe Creative Suite helpful but not required.

 

Interested students should apply by February 7th using the link: https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/raleighnc/jobs/4797570/comprehensive-planning-intern

Clarion Associates
919.967.9188
101 Market Street, Suite D
Chapel Hill, NC 27516
www.clarionassociates.com

Summer Planning Intern Position – Chapel Hill, NC
January 21th, 2025

Clarion Associates is a nationally recognized consulting firm specializing in community planning and zoning and plan implementation. This work covers a variety of topics, such as land use, design, community equity, affordable housing, sustainability, resiliency, and historic preservation. We have offices in Chapel Hill and Denver, and affiliated offices in Cincinnati and Philadelphia. This position would be based out of the Chapel Hill office under a hybrid (in-person and remote) work approach. Fully remote work may be considered.
Clarion has assisted over 200 U.S. cities and counties to plan for their futures and implement those plans creatively, efficiently, and effectively. We are highly regarded as a firm that forms strong partnerships with each of our communities to tackle complex planning projects and resolve them in ways that get adopted, get implemented, and build public support for ambitious local planning efforts. You can learn more about us at www.clarionassociates.com.
This intern position will support our extensive plan development and plan implementation practice areas. Work will involve research, preparation of plan documents, public engagement assistance, support for drafting of zoning ordinances, and research on equity, affordable housing, sustainability, and resiliency issues.
Pursuit of a bachelor’s or master’s degree in urban planning is required, and one to two years relevant practice experience is helpful. Joint planning and law students are encouraged to apply. Excellent computer, written, and oral communication skills are essential. Experience with Microsoft Office and Teams, ArcGIS Pro, Google SketchUp, and Adobe Suite preferred but not required. Clarion offers competitive compensation. The duration of the internship will be based on the school schedule of hired intern(s) and can continue into the fall and spring semesters.
Please submit 1) a cover letter, 2) a resume, 3) three professional and academic references, 4) a writing sample, and 5) an example of graphics or document layout/design related work to: chapelhillhiring@clarionassociates.com by February 10, 2025. No phone calls please.

The City of Redwood City invites you to apply for the position of Assistant/Associate Planner. There is one vacancy which can be filled at an Assistant or Associate level, depending on the experience and qualifications of the selected candidate. This is an excellent opportunity for a motivated professional to lead or participate in several exciting development projects in Redwood City and participate in long range planning efforts underway. The position allows for a hybrid work schedule (3 days in office and 2 days working remotely).

For more information and to apply, please visit CalOpps: https://www.calopps.org/redwood-city/job-20573418

The job announcement will close on 1/31/2025.

Position Details: View complete job listing

Location: Honolulu, Hawaii

Job Type: Full-Time Permanent, contract positions and internship, hybrid work option available. Flexible application due date and start date.

We are looking for aspiring planners who are knowledgeable about:

• Principles, practices, purposes, and scope of techniques of the various phases of city planning;
• Trends in Federal, State and local planning as they affect city planning;
• Research methodology and statistical procedures;
• Sources and uses of socio-economic information; and
• State and local laws and ordinances related to city planning.

Minimum Qualification Requirements: At time of application, you must be a citizen, national or permanent resident alien of the United States or a non-citizen eligible under federal law for unrestricted employment. Education Requirements: Equivalent to graduation from a regionally accredited college or university with major work in city planning, architecture, engineering, economics, sociology, public administration or a related field.

Preferred Technical Skills: MS Word, Excel, Outlook; Adobe PS, AI, INDD; Arc GIS.

General Duties and Responsibilities:

• Participate in the development and updates of long-range regional plans and special area plans.
• Review and comment on various applications and plans.
• Assist with reviewing affordable housing projects for compliance with applicable requirements.
• Independently review, evaluate and draft reports recommending action on proposals for zone change and other land use approvals.
• Conduct research by gathering and analyzing land use, economic, social and environmental data related to assigned projects.

Positions Openings: Planner III, IV, V, and VI. Level of responsibilities will vary depending on Planner level.

Monthly Salary: Planner IV $5,258+; Planner V $5,918.00+; Planner VI $6,399+.

Benefits of being a City Employee:

• Vacation: earn up to 21 days per year; Sick Leave: earn up to 21 days per year; Holidays: 13 days a year; 14 days during election years.
• Medical, Dental, Prescription Drug, and Vision Care: Various health insurance plans are available. Premiums are subsidized by the City and deductible from pre-tax income for participants of the Premium Conversion Plan (PCP).
• Group Life Insurance: No cost for eligible employees.
• Deferred Compensation Plan: Invest in your future… defer part of your pre-tax income for retirement.
• Retirement Plan: retirement benefits for State and County employees. Employee contribution required.
• Commuter Choice Pre-Tax Benefits: Employees may designate certain transportation expenses as a pre-tax item.
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Program: A federal program forgiving the balance of federal student loans for individuals working in public service…and more.
• Training and Development: Computer, career, and personal enhancement courses are offered; curriculum designed for employee, supervisory, and management development.
  Important Application Information:
• Please email us at planningdivision@honolulu.gov with your resume and we can discuss the most suitable role based on your experiences and qualifications.
• After our discussion, all applications must complete the full application online at https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/honolulu for determination of eligibility.

The Town of Forest City (population 7,400), is one of the fastest growing small towns located in the foothills of Western North Carolina, centrally located just 1-hour west of Charlotte, NC, and 1-hour east of Asheville, NC. The Town is seeking a motivated, qualified applicant to fill the position of Planner that acts as the Planning and Zoning Director.

This position is responsible for a professional level of planning duties enforcing residential, commercial, land use, storm water, floodplain, zoning, major subdivisions, and other ordinances and performing related planning functions to include scheduled Board of Planning & Adjustment meetings and presentations to the Town’s council when needed. The work will include assisting customers with land use and zoning interpretations, conducting initial site and plan reviews including minor to moderate complexity; analyzing data; updating drafting reports; researching records and enforcing planning ordinances and policies and advises property owners and tenants of violations and issue fines when necessary; code enforcement of the UDO and land development standards, maintaining updates of rezoning information in the Smart Gov system and knowledge of the GIS system. The work requires considerable contact with developers, architects, and with the public. Knowledge of the planning field, professional judgement and initiative, and tact and courtesy are required in the performance of the planner position. This position reports to the Building and Zoning Codes Administrator.

The applicant must be a graduate from a four-year college or university with a degree in planning or related field with some experience as a professional planner, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. A minimum of one year’s experience is preferred. Certified Zoning Official certification is preferred or the ability to obtain within 6 months. The salary range for this position is $46,535 – $84,846 based upon experience and qualifications. Successful applicant must pass a drug test and criminal background check prior to employment.

Applications will be accepted at City Hall, 128 North Powell Street and via email HR@townofforestcity.com beginning Monday, December 23, 2024 until filled. For further information contact Mara Short at 828-202-2234.

The Town of Forest City is an equal opportunity employer and considers applicants for all positions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, gender, national origin, age, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, or any other legally protected status.

Parks Planning Internship

Are you passionate about shaping community spaces and enhancing public recreation? Discover how parks and greenways come to life with our Parks Planning Internship. We are seeking enthusiastic individuals for two positions who are eager to dive into the world of parks planning and development.

Internship Highlights

• Design and Documentation: Gain experience creating illustrations, documents, and maps using various platforms to support projects outlined in our Master Plan for Parks, Recreation, Cultural Resources, Greenways, and Open Space.
• Project Oversight: Engage with the design development and construction phases of greenway corridors. Assist in identifying new funding opportunities to expand greenway networks.
• Public Engagement: Participate in community engagement, project planning, and cost estimation for ongoing and future park and greenway projects.
• Hands-On Experience: Interact with the Technical Review Committee, Advisory Commission, Planning Board, and Town Council to gain a thorough understanding of the public planning process and obtain project approvals.

Benefits of the Internship

• Portfolio Development: Build an impressive portfolio showcasing your involvement in real-world projects.
• Professional Growth: Apply design and construction standards, explore public policy, and learn public and private sector processes.
• Networking Opportunities: Expand your professional network by working closely with design, construction, and policy-making professionals.

This internship is designed to be flexible, allowing you to explore various aspects of public planning while contributing to meaningful projects. Join us to make a tangible impact on your community and develop skills that will propel your career in urban planning and development.

Apply now to be part of our dynamic Parks Planning team and help turn visionary projects into reality!

https://apexnc.csod.com/ux/ats/careersite/1/home/requisition/587?c=apexnc

Position Details: View complete job listing