Planning Director

The City of Aspen, Colorado is a world-class resort community nestled in the mountain peaks of the White River National Forest. There are over 300 days of sunshine each year. Known for unparalleled outdoor recreation opportunities, breathtaking landscapes, and an abundance of arts and cultural amenities, the Aspen community is a close-knit, year-round community of approximately 7,000 residents, with seasonal fluctuations to around 15,000 visitors and part-time residents.  Residents are passionate, highly engaged, and embrace the opportunities to advance the Aspen Idea: the integration of mind, body and spirit. The City Planning Director within the Community Development Department has a key role, opportunity, and responsibility to lead in this community.

The City of Aspen operates as a council-city manager form of government with home rule authority. There are five council members, including the mayor, elected at-large. The city manager, city attorney, and municipal judge are appointed by the City Council.

Under the direction of the Community Development Director, the Planning Director is responsible for the overall management of the land use entitlement process, historic preservation, zoning enforcement, and long-range planning, including policy analysis and recommendations. The ideal candidate for the Planning Director in the City of Aspen is someone who aligns with the City’s mission and values. This person will demonstrate the experience and expertise to meet current and future community demands based on an appreciation for the best elements of the Aspen’s history. The City seeks a Planning Director who can ‘lead from the front’ in support of a quality team in bringing out the best of the team’s expertise. The ability to collaborate with community stakeholders – from elected leaders to developers to historic preservationists – will allow a candidate to thrive in this environment.

A bachelor’s degree in urban planning, public administration, or related field, and five (5) years’ experience in urban planning or a related field, including three (3) years in a supervisory capacity is required. A master’s degree in urban planning, public administration, or related field, 7-10 years of progressive responsible experience, including that of leading a team, and AICP certification is preferred.

This position requires the candidate to satisfactorily pass a criminal background check upon hire. Must be willing to work evening and weekend hours in addition to normal hours.

The hiring salary is +/- $165,000 dependent on qualifications and experience.

Housing within the urban growth boundary of the City of Aspen is available for this position, with terms negotiable with the preferred finalist. Housing availability is matched to household size, with rental and purchase options available at pricing considerably below free-market pricing. Relocation assistance is available. Residency within the Roaring Fork Valley preferred.

Please apply online

For more information on this position contact:
Clay Pearson, Senior Vice President
Strategic Government Resources
[email protected]
713-816-8639