Assistant City Planner

JOB SUMMARY
The Assistant City Planner performs professional planning work in support of the City’s planning, zoning, development review, and long-range planning functions. This position assists with development applications, staff reports, ordinance administration, public inquiries, and coordination with other City departments, boards, and the public to ensure growth and development are consistent with the City of Orange Beach’s adopted plans, ordinances, and community vision.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS / DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Assists in the review of development applications including site plans, subdivisions, conditional uses, variances, rezonings, and other land use requests.
2. Reviews plans for compliance with zoning ordinances, subdivision regulations, comprehensive plan policies, and other applicable City codes.
3. Prepares staff reports, recommendations, and presentation materials for the Planning Commission, Board of Adjustment, City Council, and other boards as assigned.
4. Provides information and guidance to property owners, developers, engineers, architects, and the general public regarding zoning, land use regulations, and development procedures.
5. Conducts research and analysis related to land use, demographics, infrastructure, housing, and community development trends.
6. Assists in drafting and updating ordinances, policies, maps, and long-range planning documents.
7. Coordinates with other City departments (Engineering, Building, Public Works, etc.) and outside agencies during the development review process.
8. Assists with floodplain management, coastal regulations, and environmental review processes as applicable.
9. Maintains accurate records, files, and databases related to planning cases and permits.
10. Attends public meetings, workshops, and hearings, including occasional evening meetings.
11. Performs field inspections related to zoning, land use, and development compliance as needed.
12. Performs related duties as assigned.

1. Handles sensitive information in a confidential manner.
2. Maintains a highly professional attitude and demeanor at all times.
3. Provides responsible, appropriate, and satisfactory leadership within the City.
4. Communicates positively and professionally in all aspects of the position.
5. Attends all departments meetings, City meetings, and professional development activities.
6. Becomes thoroughly familiar with all pertinent state and national policies and comply with said policies.
7. Complies with City wide and departmental policies, as well as state and federal laws.
8. Ensures the positive promotion of the City.
9. Is prompt and punctual in reporting for work, meetings, etc.
10. Performs other duties as assigned.

1. Principles and practices of urban and regional planning.
2. Zoning, subdivision regulations, and land development processes.
3. Comprehensive planning and land use policy.
4. Basic mapping, GIS, and site plan review concepts.
5. Public administration processes and procedures.

1. Technical and report writing.
2. Interpreting and applying codes, ordinances, and regulations.
3. Research, data analysis, and problem solving.
4. Public speaking and professional presentations.
5. Organization and time management in a multi-task environment.

1. Communicate clearly and professionally, both orally and in writing.
2. Work effectively with the public, elected officials, developers, and staff.
3. Read and interpret plans, maps, legal descriptions, and technical documents.
4. Exercise sound judgment and maintain attention to detail.
5. Manage multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously.
6. Ability to attend evening meetings as required.

1. Bachelor’s degree in Urban Planning, City Planning, Geography, Public Administration, Architecture, Engineering, or a closely related field OR Any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience that provides the required knowledge and abilities.
2. One (1) to three (3) years of experience in planning, zoning, development review, or related work preferred.

1. Experience in municipal planning community planning.
2. Familiarity with floodplain management and FEMA regulations.
3. Working knowledge of GIS software.
4. AICP certification or ability to obtain within a specified timeframe.