Urban Planning and Zoning Manager

City of Decatur; Decatur (IL); On-site; USD 95,000 - 150,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive benefits

Relocation reimbursement

Health center

Tuition reimbursement

Job summary

The City of Decatur, IL, seeks a seasoned urban planning leader to guide citywide planning, zoning, and land use policy. Reporting to the Economic & Community Development Director, this role serves as the City’s principal advisor on planning and development, shaping policies that support sustainable growth, economic vitality, and quality of life.

You’ll lead a planning team, oversee the MPO, modernize development regulations, and guide community-focused planning initiatives that enhance

Qualifications

• 5+ years of progressively responsible professional planning experience
• Experience in comprehensive planning, zoning administration, land use regulation or development review
• Local government planning experience preferred
• Minimum of 1 year of supervisory or team leadership experience with demonstrated leadership and conflict resolution skills

Responsibilities

• Direct Planning Division activities and supervise planning staff
• Develop, implement, and update the Comprehensive Development Plan and area plans
• Oversee zoning ordinance updates and evaluate development proposals for conformance
• Oversee DUATS/MPO operations and ensure compliance with regulations and reporting
• Engage with the Planning & Zoning Commission, City Council, and regional forums

Skills

Analytical skills

Research skills

Leadership

Written communications

Policy analysis

Education

Bachelor's degree in urban planning or related field

Master's degree

AICP certification within 18 months

Illinois driver’s license

Tools

ArcGIS

Job description

The City of Decatur is seeking a seasoned urban planning leader to guide citywide planning, zoning, and land use policy. Reporting to the Economic & Community Development Director, this role serves as the City’s principal advisor on planning and development while shaping policies and initiatives that support sustainable growth, economic vitality, and quality of life.

This position provides executive-level exposure with direct influence on city policy and development outcomes. You’ll lead a talented planning team, oversee the City’s Municipal Planning Organization (MPO), modernize development regulations, and guide community-focused planning initiatives that support sustainable growth and livability.

Strategic Planning & Leadership

• Oversee and direct all Planning Division activities, including MPO functions, while providing leadership and supervision to planning staff.
• Lead development, implementation, and regular updates of the City’s Comprehensive Development Plan and specialized area plans
• Design and launch innovative planning initiatives addressing housing, transportation, sustainability, accessibility, and urban design
• Oversee administrative functions including budget preparation and monitoring, expenditure tracking, record management, and reporting

Zoning & Development Review

• Oversee preparation and amendment of the Zoning Ordinance to align with community goals and legal requirements
• Review, analyze, and evaluate development proposals, site plans, and land use applications for conformance with zoning and design guidelines
• Provide expert guidance to developers, property owners, and consultants on planning requirements and regulatory compliance

Transportation Planning

• Oversee the Decatur Urbanized Area Transportation Study (DUATS), serving as the Municipal Planning Organization (MPO)
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations, including preparation and submission of required federal reports, plans, and documentation
• Coordinate with state DOT, federal agencies, and regional partners on planning and transportation initiatives

Public Engagement & Intergovernmental Relations

• Prepare and deliver presentations, reports, and recommendations to the Planning & Zoning Commission, City Council, Technical Advisory Committee, and other boards
• Serve as primary staff liaison to the Planning & Zoning Commission and related committees
• Facilitate public meetings and community engagement activities
• Represent the City at regional planning meetings, professional conferences, and intergovernmental forums

Education & Credentials

• Bachelor's degree in urban planning, regional planning, geography, or related field required
• Master's degree preferred
• American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) certification required within 18 months of hire
• Valid Illinois driver's license.

Professional Experience

• 5 years of progressively responsible professional planning experience including work in comprehensive planning, zoning administration, land use regulation, or development review
• Local government planning experience preferred
• Minimum of 1 year of supervisory or team leadership experience with demonstrated leadership, team-building, and conflict resolution skills
• An equivalent combination of education, experience, and training which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities may be considered

Technical Expertise

• Comprehensive knowledge of urban and regional planning principles, land use law, zoning administration, and Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) operations
• Understanding of economic development, housing policy, sustainability, and community design practices
• Strong analytical and research skills with ability to collect, interpret, and synthesize complex data
• Proficiency with GIS software (ArcGIS or similar)
• Excellent written communication skills; ability to prepare concise reports, presentations, and policy documents

Benefits

• Competitive Benefits: 14.5 paid holidays per year (including 2 employee-selected days), comprehensive health coverage, an excellent pension plan, paid vacation, and sick leave
• Relocation Reimbursement: Financial support to help cover moving expenses for qualified candidates
• Dedicated Health Center: Free check-ups, chronic condition management, immunizations, bloodwork, and many free prescriptions for employees and their dependents
• Tuition Reimbursement: Funding available for continuing education and professional development

Why Decatur?

• Affordable Living: Ranked the #1 Best Affordable Place to Live in the U.S. (2025–2026) by U.S. News & World Report, with low cost of living and attainable housing
• Central Location: Within easy reach of Chicago, St. Louis, and Indianapolis for day trips and regional travel
• Land of Lincoln: Explore Abe's legacy with visits to the nearby Lincoln Home National Historic Site, Lincoln's Tomb, and the family's first Illinois home
• Outdoor Recreation: Lake Decatur for boating and kayaking, plus more than 2,000 acres of parks for golfing, walking, biking, dog exercising, or playing disc golf
• Arts & Entertainment: Devon Lakeshore Amphitheater concerts, Millikin University performances, historic Lincoln Theatre events, and public art throughout the community
• Family Activities: Splash Cove waterpark, Overlook Adventure Park for mini golf or the ropes course, and Scovill Zoo

Sponsorship for Employment

The City of Decatur does not provide sponsorship for employment visa status (e.g., H-1B). To be considered for regular employment with City of Decatur, applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a continuous basis.

Residency Requirement

Employees must reside within 50 miles of Decatur's corporate limits within 12 months of appointment.

All candidates are subject to a pre-employment drug screen, physical, and background check post-offer. The City of Decatur is a drug-free workplace, including marijuana.