Planning Manager

Help shape Modesto’s future as our next Planning Manager! If you’re a visionary leader who thrives on urban planning, innovation, and building vibrant communities, this is your chance to make a lasting impact. Join a team that values creativity, collaboration, and smart growth.
 
Upcoming Salary Increases and Incentives:
3% COLA  effective 7/1/2026
2.5% Education Incentive – Bachelor’s Degree
5% Education Incentive – Master’s Degree

The Planning Manager is responsible to plan, organize, direct, and coordinate the activities of the Planning Division within the Community and Economic Development Department including overseeing Urban Area General Plan, zoning updates and implementation, processing development applications and permits, and conducting environmental reviews; to coordinate Planning Division activities with other divisions and departments; and to provide highly responsible and complex staff assistance to the Director of Community and Economic Development.

Application Process
Applicants will be assessed on the application submitted. Due to the volume of applications received, resumes will not be screened for the purpose of determining who is the most qualified to compete in the testing process. It is the applicant’s responsibility to fill out the “Education” and “Work Experience” sections of the application with complete information and adequate detail. Do not substitute any part of the application with the words “SEE RESUME.”
Applicants considered to be the most qualified will be invited to continue in the testing process. The Human Resources Department reserves the right to revise the testing process to best meet the needs of the City.  

Tentative Testing Schedule

In-person Written Exam
Week of July 12, 2026

The City of Modesto is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to fostering, cultivating and preserving a culture of diversity, equity and inclusion. A City application is required, including Supplemental Questionnaire. The City does not sponsor H-1B Visas. Salary offered depends on candidate’s experience.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Experience and Training Guidelines
Any combination of experience and training that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be:
 
Experience:
Five of years increasingly responsible experience in professional urban planning, regional planning, or a related field, including two years of supervisory responsibility. 

Training:
Equivalent to a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in urban or regional planning, geography, or a related field.

A Master’s degree in urban or regional planning, public administration, or a related field is desirable.

License or Certificate:
Possession of, or the ability to obtain, a valid California driver’s license.                        
Possession of certification by the American Institute of Certified Planners is desirable.