Principal Planner

City of Alexandria; Alexandria (VA); On-site; USD 60,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player in community development is seeking a Principal Planner to lead systems management in park planning and capital development. This pivotal role involves overseeing park asset management, enhancing GIS databases, and collaborating on long-term planning initiatives. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in urban planning and community engagement, with a passion for enriching public spaces. Join a vibrant team dedicated to fostering community connections and enhancing the quality of life for residents. This is an exciting opportunity to make a meaningful impact in a growing city.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of urban planning experience with large-scale projects.
• Expertise in parks and recreation planning and community engagement.
• Strong analytical skills for data-driven decision making.

Responsibilities

• Manage the Park Asset Management System and GIS database.
• Coordinate asset inventories and audits for park planning.
• Support strategic planning initiatives within the department.

Skills

Parks and Recreation Expertise

Urban Planning

Community Engagement

Data Analysis

Organizational Culture Change

Education

Bachelor's Degree

Master's Degree (Preferred)

Tools

GIS Software

Park Asset Management Software

Job description

City of Alexandria, Virginia

Principal Planner (Systems Management) Park Planning and Capital Development

The City of Alexandria is located in Northern Virginia, bordered by the District of Columbia (Potomac River), Arlington, and Fairfax counties. As part of the greater Washington, D.C. metropolitan area, Alexandria has a population of approximately 157,600, making it the sixth largest city in Virginia. The city is known for its rich history, unique character, and ongoing redevelopment and growth opportunities, with about one-quarter of its 15.47 square miles designated as historic districts.

Alexandria operates as an independent city with governance derived from a Charter granted by the Virginia General Assembly. As a Dillon Rule jurisdiction, the city’s powers are limited to those expressly granted by the state constitution, laws, or the city charter. The City Council, elected separately, governs the city, with the mayor presiding over council sessions.

If you are interested in contributing to the vibrant community of Alexandria, we invite qualified candidates to apply for the Principal Planner (Systems Management) position in Park Planning and Capital Development within the Department of Recreation, Parks, and Cultural Activities (RPCA).

• The mission of RPCA is to enrich the community through meaningful experiences in public spaces, cultural activities, and programming.
• The vision aims to enhance the well-being of residents by fostering connections among people and their environment.

Overview

RPCA supports Alexandria’s residents by providing access to diverse recreation, parks, and cultural experiences across over 900 acres of open space, including 566 acres of publicly owned parks and approximately 30,000 street trees. The department comprises four divisions: Park Services, Recreation Services, Cultural Activities, and Leadership & Management, which collaborate to deliver programs, facilities, and parks.

The Division of Park Planning and Capital Development oversees planning, design, asset management, and capital improvements. The Principal Planner (Systems Management) plays a key role in managing the city’s park and open space assets and coordinating data collection and analysis. This position supervises one full-time staff member and contractors.

The main responsibilities of the Systems Management team include:

• Managing the Park Asset Management System
• Maintaining and enhancing the Park GIS database
• Coordinating with maintenance and capital teams on long-term planning and lifecycle management
• Supporting departmental strategic planning and initiatives
• Asset reporting and audit coordination

This role reports to the Division Chief of Park Planning and Capital Development and works within strategic, business, and annual work plans. Staff development and training are prioritized, and duties may rotate to prepare for future advancement.

Key Projects for FY25-FY26 include:

1. Developing a comprehensive park asset management system tracker
2. Updating GIS database information according to cyclical management timelines
3. Coordinating asset inventories and audits
4. Analyzing data to establish replacement targets
5. Managing the 2025 Pavement Condition Index contract
6. Exploring growth and innovation opportunities by monitoring industry trends

RPCA Strategic Plan emphasizes implementing the department’s mission, vision, values, and focus areas through business planning and budgeting. Decisions should align with these core principles.

Workplace Excellence ensures a safe, healthy, and respectful environment, with all staff committed to high standards of behavior and integrity.

Shared Leadership promotes collective responsibility and decision-making, encouraging participation and continuous improvement.

Customer Service Guarantee commits to providing responsive, professional, courteous, and accountable service to all visitors and residents.

High Performance Organization (HPO) focuses on strategic clarity, operational excellence, and inspiring staff to achieve outstanding results through teamwork and leadership.

Qualifications

Candidates should bring expertise in parks and recreation, planning, community engagement, and organizational culture change. Demonstrated ability to collaborate across departments, analyze data, and make professional recommendations is essential. A passion for community service is highly valued.

Minimum qualifications include:

• A four-year college degree
• At least five years of progressively responsible urban or transportation planning experience with large-scale projects, or an equivalent combination of education and experience
• Additional preferred credentials include a Master’s degree, AICP certification, Zoning certification, or registration as a Landscape Architect or Architect

This position requires a successful criminal background check and drug screening prior to employment.