JOB DESCRIPTION

San Miguel County is seeking an experienced and collaborative Planning Director to lead the County's Planning Department and guide land use, development review, long-range planning, and implementation of the Comprehensive Plan. Reporting to the Deputy County Manager, the Planning Director provides strategic leadership while supervising a small team and working closely with the Board of County Commissioners, Planning Commission, developers, community members, and partner agencies.

Key responsibilities include:

• Leading and managing the County's Planning Department and development review process.
• Administering land use regulations, zoning, and planning policies.
• Overseeing updates to the Comprehensive Plan and Land Use Code.
• Preparing recommendations for the Planning Commission and Board of County Commissioners.
• Managing departmental operations, budgets, staff development, and strategic initiatives.
• Building collaborative relationships with community stakeholders while balancing growth, sustainability, and the County's rural mountain character.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Planning or a closely related field.
• Eight (8) years of progressively responsible experience in community development or a related field, including five (5) years of supervisory experience.
• Equivalent combinations of education and experience may be considered.
• AICP certification is preferred.

The successful candidate will possess strong leadership, communication, relationship-building, and problem-solving skills, along with experience in land use planning, development review, zoning administration, policy development, and public engagement.

Salary: $116,454–$132,175 annually, with placement potentially higher depending on qualifications and experience.

Application Deadline: August 20, 2026.

To view the complete job announcement and apply online, visit: https://www.sanmiguelcountyco.gov/jobs.aspx

Questions may be directed to Human Resources at hr@sanmiguelcountyco.gov or (970) 369-5471.

BENEFITS

Comprehensive benefits include medical, dental, vision, life and disability insurance, Colorado retirement with employer matching, paid vacation and sick leave, 13 paid holidays, parental leave, tuition reimbursement, professional development, and an Employee Assistance Program. Relocation assistance and potential county-owned rental housing may be available.