Junior Municipal Planner – Shape Livable Communities

Durango, CO; Durango (CO); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive health insurance (med/dn

Paid time off & holidays

Flexible scheduling

401(a) retirement plan

Long-term disability coverage

Employee wellness program

Free transit pass

Professional development reimbursement

Job summary

The City of Durango is seeking a Planner I in the Community Development Department to guide residents through the development process, review permit applications, explain planning requirements, and contribute to current planning projects. You’ll help manage the city’s permitting software and vacation rental program while growing in municipal planning.

This role invites early-career planners or those with transferable experience in GIS, environmental science, or public administration to join a

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in planning, geography, environmental science, public administration, GIS or a related field.
• One year of progressively responsible experience in urban planning or local government with transferable skills.

Responsibilities

• Support planning projects through customer service, code interpretation, permit review, data analysis, research, and report preparation.
• Coordinate the review and processing of development proposals and applications (site plans, variances, design reviews, permits).
• Explain code requirements to developers, builders, and community members; prepare informational materials and propose code modifications when needed.
• Conduct current and long-range planning studies using social, economic, land use and population data; prepare reports and recommendations.
• Collaborate with developers, contractors, and community members to ensure regulatory compliance.
• Perform field inspections related to development and building proposals and contribute to land use surveys.
• Support boards and commissions by preparing staff reports and participating in public meetings.
• Collaborate with other city departments and external organizations and agencies.

Skills

Customer service

Data analysis

GIS

Report writing

Code interpretation

Education

Bachelor's degree in a related field

Tools

GIS software (ArcGIS)

Job description

The City of Durango is seeking a Planner I in the Community Development Department to guide residents through the development process, review permit applications, explain planning requirements, and contribute to current planning projects. You’ll help manage the city’s permitting software and vacation rental program while growing in municipal planning.

This role invites early-career planners or those with transferable experience in GIS, environmental science, or public administration to join a