About the Role and the Community

The City of Lake Forest is seeking an experienced planner to join the Community Development Department as the Assistant Director. This position will play a leadership role, joining with experienced staff to build upon the strengths of our exceptional community with a focus on preserving and protecting the unique character of Lake Forest and the quality of life.

The community has a long tradition of carefully managing change, looking forward while respecting the past. Primarily a single family residential community, the City has two business districts and a first class corporate office park. The City is home to Lake Forest College, public and private schools, churches, an impressive Library, Lake Forest Beach, expansive preserved open space, and a state of the art hospital.

The Assistant Director will play a key role in balancing various interests and guiding decisions that help maintain The City of Lake Forest as a special place long into the future.

Examples of Duties

Provide staff support throughout the Board and Commission processes: Building Review Board, Zoning Board of Appeals, Historic Preservation Commission, Plan Commission.
Conduct comprehensive plan reviews and on site inspections: architectural, zoning, site conditions, landscaping, and lighting.
Lead and participate in longer term planning initiatives: updating design guidelines and building and zoning codes, periodic updates to long range plans, supporting housing diversity, enhancing streetscapes, engaging in master planning for specific sites, coordinating with public and private community partners, evaluating parking needs and solutions, and more.
Develop and maintain supportive relationships with existing business and property owners and support new and potential businesses.
Supervise the Assistant Planner position and assume increasing responsibility for department-wide supervision relating to day to day operations, budgeting, inspections and permitting as assigned by the Director.
Collaborate with other City departments to advance the City’s Strategic Plan Initiatives.
Support continuous process improvement and ever advancing technology.

Qualifications

Experience: 5+ years in urban planning, preferably in a municipal setting. Past leadership roles working with Boards, Commissions, and elected officials are essential.
Expertise: Historic preservation, architectural design, understanding and interpreting zoning and building codes, and managing public meetings.
Skills: Report writing, public speaking, supervisory experience, strong mediator/negotiator, ability to empower others.
Education: Degree(s) in Urban and Regional Planning preferred with additional focus in Architecture, Historic Preservation, Public Administration, Political Science, Law, or other related fields.
Traits: Collaborative, politically savvy, flexible, respectful, composed, and passionate about community character and public service.

Why Join the City of Lake Forest?

Be part of a forward-thinking organization that is committed to a strong tradition of thoughtful planning and community involvement.
Work in a collaborative environment that values professionalism, integrity, excellence, and exceptional customer service.
Play a key role in ensuring that The City of Lake Forest continues to be a remarkable place to live, work, shop, dine, study, and enjoy life.

Compensation & Benefits

Salary: $132,838 – $157,232
Insurance: Medical (PPO/HMO), dental, vision
Leave: 13 paid holidays, front-loaded vacation and sick time, parental leave
Retirement: IMRF pension + 457(b)/Roth options
Additional Benefits: Tuition reimbursement, EAP, legal/life protection, PSLF eligibility

The City of Lake Forest is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
We welcome applicants of all backgrounds and experiences.