Senior Park Planner

Job DescriptionJOB SUMMARY: Responsible for planning, designing, and developing parks, facilities, and recreational amenities, including the preparation of conceptual and final plans; construction details and drawings; writing specifications and bidding documents; and managing projects from concept through construction completion. Responsibilities also include public engagement and collaboration with internal departments, consultants, and external agencies, as well as supervision of the Park Planner position. EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE, & TRAINING:Bachelor’s degree in Landscape Architecture from an accredited university. Minimum five (5) years of professional experience in landscape architecture or park and recreational facility planning and design. Ability and willingness to obtain licensure as a Professional Landscape Architect in the State of Illinois within a reasonable timeframe. Experience working on public-sector projects, including coordination with multiple stakeholders and regulatory agencies. Experience facilitating public meetings, workshops, or stakeholder engagement processes. Valid Illinois driver’s license. KNOWLEDGE, SKILL, & ABILITIES:Demonstrated knowledge in civil engineering principles and parks and recreation facility planning, including site design, grading and drainage, plant materials, and construction documentation, cost estimating, materials selection, and detailing. Strong mathematical and technical skills are required to support planning, design, and construction tasks. Proficient with AutoCAD, Adobe Creative Suite, and Microsoft Office Suite. Knowledge of ArcGIS and demonstrated ability and willingness to learn the software. Knowledge of SketchUp or other 3‑D rendering programs and demonstrated ability to use such software is preferred but not required. Strong graphic skills, including rendering, hand sketching, and digital graphics. Strong ability to prioritize, organize, and manage multiple tasks while working both independently and as part of a collaborative team. Proven written, verbal, and graphic communication skills. Proven knowledge of plant material commonly used in the Chicagoland area, identified by both common and botanical names. Ability to lead a project team from conceptual design through project completion. Knowledge of public bidding procedures and coordination with contractors, consultants, and other project stakeholders.

Medical & Dependent Care FSABasic & Voluntary Life InsuranceIMRF PensionAFLAC Plans457 Retirement Plan Vacation, Personal, and Sick TimePaid Holidays Employee Wellness Programs and Incentives Employee Recognition Programs Discounts at our Golf CourseSeason Passes to our Aquatic CenterFree or Discounted Prices for our Fitness & Special Event ProgramsHOURS:The Senior Park Planner generally works a standard 40-hour work week, Monday through Friday. Some evenings or weekend hours may be required to attend meetings, public engagement events, site visits, or other operational needs. Flexibility during regular business hours is essential for coordination with staff, vendors, contractors, community partners, and government agencies.