Senior Planner - Land Use & Zoning Review

Senior Planner – Land Use & Zoning Review-Sustainable Community & Economic Planning Department

Join a forward-thinking community dedicated to building a sustainable, inclusive future. The Borough of Carlisle’s Sustainable Community & Economic Planning (SCEP) Department is seeking a Senior Planner to help lead Carlisle’s efforts in smart growth, equitable development, and environmental stewardship. Carlisle is a progressive, welcoming community that values civic engagement, sustainability, and strategic planning in shaping its future.

This is a unique opportunity to be part of a team that invests in neighborhoods, supports local businesses, enforces meaningful policies, and ensures responsible land use. The position plays a key role in zoning administration and planning decisions that impact everyday life in our dynamic Borough.

POSITION SUMMARY:  The Senior Planner – Land Use & Zoning Review is a professional-level position that plays a vital role in shaping Carlisle’s future through thoughtful long-range planning and daily zoning administration. Carlisle is a progressive, family-centered community that values quality of life, social connection, and inclusive growth—and this role directly supports that mission. This position requires regular engagement with residents, property owners, and developers to ensure alignment with the Borough’s zoning ordinance and land use goals. Responsibilities include reviewing subdivision and land development applications, supporting zoning enforcement efforts, and advancing programs that promote economic development and neighborhood revitalization.

Working under the general direction of the SCEP Director, the Senior Planner manages complex planning projects, facilitates public engagement, and represents the Borough in both formal and community settings. The ideal candidate brings high energy, creative thinking, and a collaborative spirit—along with a commitment to equity, innovation, and strong civic partnerships.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:  The essential functions may include the customary duties and responsibilities noted herein, however, the information below is not an exhaustive list of duties and instead serves as a representative sample of the expectations of the position.

• Serve as Assistant Zoning Officer (AZO) and act as Zoning Officer as needed.
• Review, process, and approve zoning permit applications in accordance with the Borough’s Zoning Ordinance.
• Conduct field inspections and investigations to ensure land use compliance; issue violation notices and track enforcement cases.
• Collaborate with the Borough’s legal and code enforcement teams on zoning violations and legal proceedings.
• Provide zoning interpretation and guidance to residents, contractors, and internal departments.
• Prepare and present zoning-related reports and recommendations to the Planning Commission and Zoning Hearing Board.
• Attend evening meetings of Borough Council, Planning Commission, and Zoning Hearing Board (as needed) and submit reports on activities of the department to Borough Council and the Manager.
• Review subdivision and land development plans and ensure compliance with conditions of approval, plan recording, and security requirements.
• Assist with the identification, preparation, and administration of planning-related grants.
• Support economic development programs that improve neighborhood vitality and resident quality of life.
• Assist in long-range planning projects related to climate action, historic preservation, infrastructure, and sustainability.
• Coordinate public participation and engagement efforts, including virtual and in-person outreach.

KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/QUALITIES:  The ideal candidate should possess the following:

• Strong working knowledge of the Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning Code (MPC).
• Expertise in zoning administration, land use planning, and code enforcement procedures.
• Familiarity with planning software and tools including ESRI GIS, Adobe Creative Suite, and Microsoft Office.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills; ability to write technical reports and present information clearly to the public and elected officials.
• Ability to manage multiple projects with professionalism and attention to detail.
• Skills in conducting inspections, writing citations, and documenting compliance actions.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team-oriented municipal environment.
• Strong interpersonal skills with a commitment to customer service and community responsiveness.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS AND QUALIFYING CRITERIA:  An equivalent combination of credentials and experience to sufficiently perform the duties of the position may be considered:

• Bachelor’s degree in Urban Planning, Architecture, Parks and Recreation, Transportation, Urban Design, Engineering, Environmental Science, Public Administration, Geography, Economics or other related fields.
• At least five (5) years of professional planning and/or zoning experience.
• AICP Certification preferred but not required.
• Valid Pennsylvania Driver’s License.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS/WORK ENVIRONMENT: The physical demands described below are representative of those required for the position.

• Primarily office-based with occasional field inspections.
• Interaction with residents during zoning review or code enforcement is expected and,
• May involve walking, bending, and lifting up to 10 lbs.
• Extended time at computer workstations and in meetings. Some after-hours work meetings are expected.
• Must be able to effectively communicate, write, and perform site inspections in various weather conditions.
• Must be physically able to operate standard office equipment
• Must be able to operate a motor vehicle

Help Build the Future of Carlisle

If you’re ready to make a tangible difference in a community that values progressive thinking, innovation, and sustainability, we invite you to apply today. Learn more and apply online at: www.carlislepa.org/employment

EXCELLENT BENEFITS FOR FULL-TIME EMPLOYEES

Insurance Coverage Starts Day 1 of Employment

• Public Service Loan Forgiveness Qualifying Employer
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Pension/Retirement
• Life and disability insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Professional development and training
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Paid leave and holidays
• Relocation Assistance

PAY RATE: $66,500 - $88,500 - $32.03 – $42.69/hr Dependent on qualifications

The job description is on our website: www.carlislepa.org

For questions or to submit your resume and cover letter:  Contact: Meagan Pryor, HR Compensation Coordinator Email: [email protected] or Call: 717-240-6901