We are seeking an energetic planning professional or planning project manager to provide advanced-level private and municipal planning and permitting expertise as we develop and execute a wide variety of projects out of our Spokane office. The ideal candidate will demonstrate initiative and be able to work with our diverse clientele as a quick learner, working on various planning-related tasks and responsibilities, and integrating with our company-wide planning team on projects across the Pacific Northwest and beyond. They will partner with other SCJ professionals to strengthen relationships with clients.

Who we are

Our mission is to serve our clients, communities, and each other with creativity, knowledge, insight, and perspective. As a 100% employee-owned company, at SCJ we value trust, compassion, freedom, stewardship, and integrity. We routinely and easily cross job description lines in order to be part of getting something done. Our fast-paced, fun, and flexible atmosphere offers the opportunity for meaningful work that challenges you, makes a difference, and improves communities. We specialize in civil engineering, transportation planning & design, environmental & urban planning, landscape architecture & design, and public outreach. With great projects and a fun-loving team, our firm has been named as both one of the nation’s fastest-growing and best places to work multiple times.

The ideal candidate will demonstrate independence and initiative and be able to work with our diverse clientele. They will be able to cultivate new relationships while sustaining and strengthening existing relationships.  Problem solving and consensus-building come naturally to them, along with an appreciation for pragmatic solutions even while stretching to reach aspirational goals. 

What our planning projects may include

  • Comprehensive plan updates
  • Zoning and development code updates
  • Housing action plans
  • Land use planning and permitting
  • Town center planning and redevelopment

What you’ll be doing

  • Leading interesting and challenging planning-related projects and/or tasks that help build communities.
  • Communicating and building professional relationships with clients, agencies, colleagues, and the public. 
  • Prioritizing multiple projects and deadlines.
  • Coordinating projects and working with other staff to ensure tasks are organized and progressing. 
  • Performing an assortment of land use, permitting, environmental, and transportation planning projects and tasks.
  • Getting out of the office on occasion to visit the communities and clients you’re working for.
  • Leading public engagement efforts and thinking creatively on how to successfully engage a wide range of communities.
  • Assisting with presentations to elected officials, hearings examiners, and various other public forums.

What you bring

  • A passion for serving others, communication, creativity, and a commitment to high-quality work.
  • A Bachelor’s degree or higher in planning or related field or equivalent.
  • Experience and knowledge of managing parts or all of planning projects.
  • A flexible perspective for working with a variety of clients and co-workers, often virtually.
  • Experience with public speaking and presenting to planning commissions and city councils.
  • Proficient in technical writing of plans and reports. 
  • Knowledge of expectations and requirements in planning and permitting work for private &/or public clients.
  • Knowledge of the Growth Management Act (GMA) in Washington State.
  • 5-10 years of relevant planning experience. 

What we bring 

  • An unbeatable culture: An autonomous and collaborative work environment, exceptional operational support, creative and supportive co-workers, and a compassionate leadership team. Plus other fun stuff including firmwide parties, mugshots, fitness challenges, fantasy football league, trivia nights, peer recognition program…and a variety of other creative ways we have found to come together and hang out. 
  • Quality projects: We pursue work that improves communities, challenges us, and makes a difference.
  • Community involvement opportunities and a charitable matching program. 
  • Paid time off: vacation/sick time, holidays, personal floating holiday. 
  • Retirement benefits: 401(k) plan & employee stock ownership plan (ESOP).
  • Health, disability, and other insurance plan options to fit your needs. Including HSA & FSA.

This is not a remote position. Though there is some flexibility, in-person office time will be necessary.