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Senior Planner - Long Range Focus

JciSmithfield, NCMay 3rd, 2026
Johnston County is an Equal Opportunity Employer.DescriptionThe Johnston County Planning and Development Department has an immediate opening for a Senior Planner - Long Range Focus.Starting Salary Negotiable Based On Experience.An employee in this class is responsible for professional level planning related to long range planning efforts, and other related planning functions. Work includes interpretation of plans and ordinances; analyzing data and drafting reports; research; policy development; and coordinating with partners on the development of plans and policies. Knowledge of planning principles and practice, professional judgment and initiative, and tact and courtesy are required in the performance of duties. Work is supervised by the Planning Director and is evaluated based on conferences, review of assignments and engagement with the public and Boards.This position is posted continuous open until filled.Duties and ResponsibilitiesAssists with implementation and development of land use related plans and policies.Coordinates/leads long range planning efforts including but not limited to land use plan, transportation planning, and small area plans.Administers, implements and enforces the County’s Land Use Plan, Unified Development Ordinance, and other adopted Planning documents and policies.Assists with development of amendments to the County’s Unified Development Ordinance and/or the Land Use Plan consistent with state enabling legislation.Conducts research, analyzes findings, and summarizes possible effects of proposed policy initiatives.Supports or coordinates special planning studies; coordinates and supports meetings of focus groups to develop plans and regulations.Serves on a variety of inter-departmental, and inter-jurisdictional committees and groups.Works with consultants and reviews their work for accuracy.May serve as a lead/supervisor to other staff, with limited supervisory requirements, consistent with a specified project or work program.Other duties as assigned.Knowledge, Skills And AbilitiesKnowledge of the planning process; thorough understanding of land use principles and how transportation, environment, historic and demographic trends impact an area; Proficiency in the ability to organize, schedule and lead public/informational meetings; Ability to effectively communicate verbally as well as written.Knowledge and understanding of the principles and practices of community planning.Knowledge of basic governmental and administrative frameworks involved in effective planning.Skill in the use of computers for compiling reports, developing presentation material, and storing and retrieving data.Ability to communicate effectively in oral and written forms and make presentations.Ability to analyze planning issues and recommend solutions.Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with County employees, officials, developers, and the general public.Desired Education and ExperienceGraduation from a four year college or university with a degree in planning, and Minimum of three years experience as a professional planner which includes experience with long range planning projects such as comprehensive plans, area plans, transportation and corridor plans, and ordinance development, or Any equivalent combination of education and experience.NOTE: This job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities or qualifications associated with the job. Other duties may be assigned. Important Pre-Employment InformationIf the position requires a degree, official transcripts must be submitted within 30 days of hire.A pre-employment reference check will be conducted.A background check may be required and may include criminal history, motor vehicle records, sex offender registry checks, pre-employment drug screening, SBI fingerprinting, and, if applicable, a National Practitioner Data Bank (NPDB) check.A conviction record does not automatically disqualify you from employment, unless otherwise required by state law. Each situation is reviewed on a case-by-case basis.Johnston County provides a comprehensive, affordable insurance and benefits program.Employees are offered a diverse selection of benefits including medical (no-cost for the employee plan), dental, life, and supplemental benefit coverages. Employees can also take advantage of our on-site wellness clinic and virtual telehealth program, both at no-cost!Additional benefits include participation in the NC Retirement System, a 401(k) match option, generous paid leave and holiday schedule, tuition reimbursement, and more! To learn more, visit www.myjcbenefits.comThis description applies to benefits eligible positions.01Please indicate your highest level of education.High school diploma/ GEDAssociate degreeBachelor's degreeMaster's degreeDoctoral degree02Do you hold a degree in planning, geography, public administration, architecture, engineering?YesNo03Do you have experience with the use of ArcMap?YesNo04Do you have experience with long-range planning?YesNo05Indicate the number of years you have worked in planning and zoning.None1-4 years5-9 years10+ years06Do you have experience with transportation planning?YesNo07Do you have experience working in federal, state or local government?YesNo08Are you available for occasional evenings, weekends and regular travel?YesNo Required Question