City Planning Division Manager / Planning Official – City of Orlando, FL

MGT is pleased to partner with the City of Orlando in search of top-tier candidates for its City Planning Division Manager / Planning Official

Orlando, FL (pop. 325,000) is a vibrant mosaic of sunshine, creativity, and boundless energy. Nestled in the heart of Florida, it’s far more than just the gateway to world-famous theme parks like Walt Disney World and Universal Studios. It is a city that hums with innovation, diversity, and a deep sense of community pride.

Thanks to visionary urban planning and dynamic economic development initiatives led by the City Planning Division and the Downtown Development Board, Orlando continues to evolve as a thriving hub for business, culture, and sustainability. From its booming tech corridors and revitalized neighborhoods to its commitment to smart growth and livability, Orlando offers a lifestyle that blends excitement with opportunity.

The City Planning Division Manager is a key member of the Economic Development Department and the City’s executive leadership team. It calls for a forward-thinking professional to guide a dynamic team of planning experts, ensuring the successful execution of the city’s newly updated Comprehensive Plan, Land Development Code and strategic initiatives. The position plays a pivotal role in shaping a sustainable, inclusive, and vibrant future for the community.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in urban or regional planning, engineering, architecture, public administration, or related field. A master’s degree is strongly preferred.
• Ten (10) years of experience in progressively more responsible positions in urban planning or related field.
• At least six (6) years of supervisory or project management experience is preferred
• One of the following certifications is required: American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP), American Institute of Architects (AIA) and/or American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA) certification(s).
• Strong leadership, communication (oral and written), analytical, problem-solving, and interpersonal skills are essential.
• Valid Florida Driver’s License *or* a valid license from another state for transfer within 30 days of employment.

Desired Skills and Abilities

• Demonstrated expertise in reviewing development applications and interpreting planning regulations.
• Upholds integrity and transparency in all aspects of decision-making
• Maintains composure and effectiveness under public scrutiny, political pressure, and while managing competing priorities.
• Applies innovative and strategic thinking to address complex urban challenges such as housing affordability and mobility.
• Comprehensive knowledge of applicable federal, state, and local laws, codes, and regulations, including Florida’s Growth Management Laws.
• Exceptional presentation and public speaking skills, with the ability to communicate complex information clearly to diverse audiences.

Other Important Information

Application Instruction and Deadline Date
To apply, please go to: www.GovHRjobs.com submit a cover letter, resume, responses to supplemental questions online by Monday, October 13, 2025. Applications will be reviewed as they are received and the job posting may close once a suitable candidate is identified. Early applications are encouraged.

Confidential questions regarding recruitment may be directed to: Joan Walko, MGT Senior Consultant, (410) 499-9586.

The salary range for the position is up to $188,600 and the hiring rate will be set depending on qualifications. Salaries above the midpoint range require CAO approval.

Florida Sunshine Laws – Please be aware that all aspects of this recruitment are open to public records requests throughout the process.

Benefits and Wellness Offerings – The City offers a generous and competitive benefits package – with world-class benefits designed to meet the needs of employees and eligible dependents and add value to their lives. Most benefits are effective on the 31st day of continuous employment. Dental and vision coverage is effective on the 1st day of the month following your 30th day of continuous employment.

The menu includes a comprehensive list of options, including

• Highly competitive health and welfare benefits including medical, dental, vision, spending accounts, life, and disability insurance.
• Wellness Program (Free health screenings, wellness consultations and exercise classes, workout, weight training and locker room facilities at no cost, wellness incentives, etc.
• Retirement and Savings Plan 401A (7% City contribution plus up to 3% match)
• For a great work / life balance, the city offers a generous time off program that includes:
  • Personal leave based on seniority (136 to 216 hours) with an additional 64 hours of management leave/
  • 10 paid holidays (plus 24 hours of floating holidays)/
  • Educational Assistance Program – Up to $1,800 per fiscal year.

For more information about plan highlights, costs, and effective dates, please visit the City of Orlando Benefits Summary.

The City of Orlando provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation or genetic information.