Planner

City of Novi; Novi (MI); On-site; USD 59,000 - 76,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Generous Time Off

Health Insurance

Dental Insurance

Wellness Program

Retirement Plan

Tuition reimbursement

Job summary

City of Novi in Michigan is seeking a Planner or Senior Planner to join our Plan Review Center. You will review site plans, interpret the Zoning Ordinance, prepare studies and reports, and manage development projects from concept to construction.

Under the City Planner's direction, you will collaborate with residents, developers, and staff to ensure regulatory compliance and thoughtful growth. Senior Planner candidates may provide leadership and substitute for the City Planner when needed.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Urban Planning, Urban Studies, Architecture, Landscape Architecture, Public Administration, or related field.
• Master's degree or 5+ years of directly applicable experience for Senior Planner.
• AICP certification preferred or required for Senior Planner.

Responsibilities

• Review site plans and development proposals for compliance with zoning and development regulations.
• Interpret and apply the Zoning Ordinance, codes, and other applicable regulations.
• Prepare planning studies, written reports, and professional recommendations.
• Serve as project manager for development projects, coordinating review comments from staff and consultants.
• Guide applicants through the City's review process from concept to construction.
• Present findings and recommendations to Planning Commission and City Council.
• Senior Planner: provide leadership and substitute for City Planner when needed.
• Work schedule: Monday–Friday, 8 am–5 pm; some evening meetings.

Skills

Project management

Communication

Analytical thinking

Public engagement

Leadership (for Senior Planner)

Education

Bachelor's degree in Urban Planning/Related field

Master's degree or 5+ years applicable experience

AICP certification

Job description

Join a Growing, Innovative Community in the Heart of Southeast Michigan

Are you passionate about shaping vibrant communities and guiding meaningful development? The City of Novi Planning Department is looking for a talented and motivated Planner or Senior Planner to join our collaborative Plan Review Center team.

In this role, you'll help shape the future of one of Michigan's most dynamic and diverse communities through site plan review, ordinance interpretation, implementation of the Master Plan, and by serving as a trusted resource to residents, businesses, and developers navigating planning projects and procedures.

Located in Novi, in Michigan's thriving Oakland County, our city is home to approximately 67,000 residents and is known for its welcoming neighborhoods, thriving business community, exceptional shopping and dining, award-winning schools, advanced healthcare systems, and outstanding parks and recreation amenities.

This is a professional staff-level opportunity for an experienced planning professional who is analytical, organized, and an exceptional communicator. Working under the direction of the City Planner, you'll manage impactful projects from concept through construction and play a key role in the future growth of our community.

What You'll Do:

As a member of our multi-disciplinary Plan Review Center team, you will:

• Review site plans and development proposals for compliance with zoning and development regulations.
• Interpret and apply the Zoning Ordinance, codes, and other applicable regulations.
• Prepare planning studies, written reports, and professional recommendations.
• Serve as project manager for proposed development projects, coordinating review comments from City staff and consultants.
• Guide applicants through the City's review process from initial concept to final construction.
• Review and process a variety of development applications, including:
  • Site plans
  • Condominiums
  • Rezoning applications
• Present findings, reports, and recommendations to the Planning Commission and City Council.
• For Senior Planner candidates: provide leadership support and serve as a substitute for the City Planner when needed.
• Work Schedule: Monday - Friday, 8 am to 5 pm, Evening meeting attendance is also required on occasion.

What We're Looking For:

Planner – Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree from an accredited college or university in:
  • Urban Planning
  • Urban Studies
  • Architecture
  • Landscape Architecture
  • Public Administration
  • or a related field
• Graduate Degree and/or American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) certification preferred
• Prior municipal planning experience preferred
• Valid Michigan driver's license

Senior Planner – Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree from an accredited college or university in:
  • Urban Planning
  • Urban Studies
  • Architecture
  • Landscape Architecture
  • Public Administration
  • or a related field
• Master's Degree or at least 5 years of directly applicable experience
• AICP certification required
• Minimum of 2 years of professional planning experience with the City of Novi in the Planner position, or with a comparable community
• Demonstrated experience substituting for the City Planner in:
  • Planning Commission committee meetings
  • Full Planning Commission meetings
  • City Council meetings
  • or similar meetings in a comparable community
• Valid Michigan driver's license

Compensation & Benefits:

Salary: Planner Salary Range: $58,500 – $75,500, depending on qualifications, Applicants who qualify for Senior Planner consideration could anticipate a higher salary range, plus a comprehensive benefits package, including:

Generous Time Off

• 14 paid holidays annually

Health & Wellness

• Cafeteria Health Insurance Plan
• Dental insurance provided by the City
• Wellness Reimbursement Program
• Robust Employee Wellness & Engagement Program

Financial Security

• Life insurance provided by the City
• 401(a) retirement plan
• Retiree Health Savings Account with employer contribution
• Optional Roth IRA & 457 retirement plans

Growth & Development

• Tuition reimbursement program
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness eligibility
• Personal and professional development training opportunities

All offers of employment are contingent upon passing a background check, physical examination, and drug screen (including marijuana testing).

Questions about the position or requests for application accommodations can be directed to the City of Novi Human Resources Department at [e-mail] or 248-347-0452.

The promotion of diversity is fueled by the desire to seek equality of opportunity for all people. The City of Novi is an Equal Opportunity Employer and a Drug-Free Workplace.