Due to internal staff promotions, we are excited to recruit one Senior Planner to join our Planning team.
Working for the Town of Wake Forest Planning Department isn't just a job – it's an opportunity to contribute to a special place's unique character and future. Here's what makes us stand out:

Our Organizational Culture: The Town’s vision is that Wake Forest’s vibrant, diverse, and welcoming community fosters its distinct character, thriving economy, and high quality of life. Our Core Values are Caring, Commitment, Character, and Collaboration. Each quarter, we highlight one value and have peer nominations to recognize exemplary work. The Town hosts a Toastmasters group, Supervisory Bootcamp, Leadership Academy, Effective Supervisory Practices course, and other professional growth opportunities. We also provide at least three annual Employee Appreciation food truck events.

Make a Real Difference: You'll help shape the physical landscape and guide the thoughtful growth of our community. From reviewing development proposals to contributing to long-range plans, your work will have a lasting impact on Wake Forest residents.

A Collaborative and Supportive Environment: We foster a close-knit team where your ideas are valued. You'll work alongside experienced professionals dedicated to mentorship and growth. Most of our staff are Certified Zoning Officials, AICPs, or both. Over the past five years, the department has won eight state Planning and Historic Preservation awards. We regularly hold team-building events to celebrate accomplishments.

Engaging and Diverse Projects: Work on a variety of projects that keep your days enjoyable and challenging, including zoning, site plan review, comprehensive planning, transportation, and historic preservation.

A Commitment to Innovation: We embrace forward-thinking approaches and utilize technology to enhance our planning processes and promote sustainability. Your input on innovative solutions will be welcomed. We offer hybrid work-from-home options after a six-month introductory period.

Work-Life Balance Matters: We prioritize a healthy balance and strive to create a supportive environment. The Town offers Wellness Wednesday once a month, allowing employees to leave early for wellness needs. We offer free access to recreational facilities and discounted youth athletic programs for employees' families. Our department also offers opportunities for management leave and flex time.

Located in a Charming and Growing Town: Wake Forest offers a high quality of life with a historic downtown, beautiful parks and greenways, a growing arts scene, and a strong sense of community. Town Hall is downtown, within walking distance of lunch spots and other amenities. Our office is being remodeled and will be shared by Planning and Engineering. It should be open by early 2026.

Opportunities for Professional Development: We invest in employees’ growth through training, workshops, conferences, and other opportunities to expand planning knowledge and skills.

Competitive Benefits Package: The Town offers a comprehensive package, including health, dental, vision, and life insurance, long- and short-term disability, retirement plan, paid time off, parental and elder care leave, non-matching required 401k contributions, longevity pay, Employee Assistance Program, Flexible Spending Accounts, and more. After a six-month probationary period, you will also receive a 5% salary increase.

What You'll Do:
As a Senior Planner, your responsibilities may include:
• Reviewing development applications for compliance with Town ordinances and plans
• Providing technical assistance to developers, residents, and stakeholders
• Conducting site visits and field investigations
• Preparing reports and presentations for boards and commissions
• Assisting with long-range plans and policies
• Contributing to special projects and initiatives
• Engaging with the public through meetings and outreach

Hiring Range for a Senior Planner: $81,909 – $85,000

Essential Duties and Tasks – Senior Planner, Development Services:
• Guide development projects and consult with agencies to coordinate reviews
• Review rezoning, permits, variances, site plans, and subdivision applications
• Prepare reports, recommendations, and presentations
• Lead Technical Review Committee meetings
• Meet with developers, engineers, surveyors, and the public
• Respond to land use inquiries and interpret regulations
• Support boards such as Board of Commissioners and Planning Board
• Conduct site inspections
• Complete special projects and other duties as assigned

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
• Strong knowledge of planning and community development
• Understanding of environmental and socio-economic planning implications
• Familiarity with governmental laws and services
• Up-to-date knowledge of planning trends and practices
• Critical thinking and sound judgment
• Ability to interpret and communicate technical information
• Strong collaboration and interpersonal skills

Education and Experience:
Graduation from a four-year college or university with a major in urban and regional planning, geography, architecture, engineering, or related field. A master’s degree is preferred. Relevant planning experience required.

Special Requirements:
• Valid North Carolina driver’s license
• AICP certification or ability to obtain within one year
• North Carolina Association of Zoning Officials certification or ability to obtain within one year