Job Description
Township Planner
(Planning/Zoning and Economic Development)
West Chester Township
The Position West Chester’s Township Planner will have the opportunity to serve Ohio’s largest township, recognized as “One of America’s Best Places to Live” and one of Ohio’s Best Communities to Do Business. Strategically located along the I-75 corridor, West Chester is a dynamic community with continued development interest, a strong economic base, and important long-term land use planning initiatives ahead.
Under the general guidance and direction of the Community Development Director, the Township Planner will manage Zoning Commission and Board of Zoning Appeals cases, provide professional planning expertise on current development activity, support ongoing planning efforts, and contribute to projects that will help shape the Township’s future. The successful candidate will be an effective communicator who can work collaboratively with residents, the development community, elected and appointed officials, and Township staff.
The expected hiring range is $36.77-$42.29 per hour, depending on qualifications. Key Responsibilities - Lead planning and zoning activities, including development review, land use analysis, and implementation of Township plans and policies.
- Serve as the primary advisor to property owners, developers, and the public on zoning regulations, development processes, and planning initiatives.
- Manage and present cases before the Zoning Commission, Board of Zoning Appeals, and Board of Trustees, including the preparation of staff reports and recommendations.
- Coordinate review of development proposals with internal departments and external agencies to ensure compliance and efficient processing.
- Analyze land use trends and planning issues; develop recommendations to support community growth and economic development goals.
- Prepare and maintain planning documents, data, maps, and GIS resources to support decision-making.
- Facilitate public meetings and stakeholder engagement; provide responsive customer service and build consensus on planning initiatives.
- Maintain accurate records and ensure transparency of zoning cases and planning activities.
- Support departmental operations and provide leadership of planning functions in the absence of the Director, as assigned.
Required Qualifications - Knowledge and skills at a level normally acquired through the completion of a Bachelor’s degree in Urban Planning or a related discipline.
- 3 - 5 years of related experience
- Working knowledge of civics, Ohio Revised Code Chapter 519, and the AICP Code of Ethics.
- Working knowledge of constitutional zoning and land use law.
- Valid Driver’s License.
Preferred Qualifications - AICP Certification
- GIS/ ESRI experience
Benefits - 11 paid holidays
- Lifestyle Reimbursement Account
- Paid leave, including vacation, personal and sick
- Comprehensive Health, Dental and Vision Benefits, including Township contribution to HSA & FSA
- Employer paid life insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Participation in the Ohio Public Employees Retirement System
Position is open until filled, with first review of applications beginning May 22, 2026. Interviews are targeting to start the week of June 1, 2026.
The selection process includes the following: oral review board, background, and drug/medical screening.
West Chester Township is an equal opportunity employer.
Job Tags
Hourly pay, Full time