City Planner

Under the general supervision of the Director of Planning, this employee provides professional planning services for the City and the Planning Department. Work is performed within the general parameters of professional planning services. The employee performs highly responsible and diversified professional planning work, through ensuring compliance with planning, zoning, ordinances, and other regulatory sources. Conducting case reviews and interacting with the public and citizenry are central to this job, as are working with construction crews and contractors to ensure accuracy and compliance in design, construction, and modifications. Considerable independent judgment and latitude are afforded this employee in the proceedings and management of assigned projects. The employee will consult, collaborate, and maintain communications with the supervisor and colleagues. This job is considered safety-sensitive and subject to pre-employment background check and random drug screenings.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: The following list was developed through a job analysis; however, it is not exhaustive and other duties may be required and assigned. A person with a disability which is covered by the ADA must be able to perform the essential functions of the job unaided or with the assistance of a reasonable accommodation.
 
ESSENTIAL FUNCTION: Case Review. Reviews planning cases for compliance with zoning, ordinances, and regulations.
 

1. Reviews cases to ensure compliance with zoning, ordinances, and regulations.
2. Meets with individuals and small groups to discuss planning and zoning matters and the results and recommendations regarding review processes.
3. Reviews and prepares documents for the Board of Adjustments.
4. Reviews cases associated with development and expansion of subdivisions. Establishes compliance with matters such as drainage.
5. Ensures that zoning ordinances are upheld. References and provides information regarding zoning requirements.
6. Evaluates site plans for compliance.
7. Reads plans and determines compliance specific to multiple occupancy dwellings and buildings.
8. Formulates findings and recommendations. Develops reports.
9. Discusses case reviews with supervisor and colleagues.

1. Represents the department and City in a professional and positive manner.
2. Responds to inquiries regarding planning functions. Discusses and explains planning-related requirements and City ordinances.
3. Interprets plans and outcomes of reviews.
4. Promotes planning functions in a positive perspective.
5. Utilizes interactions as an opportunity to inform the public regarding planning, zoning, and compliance matters.
6. Engages with the public to solve problems and identify any available options.
7. Informs supervisor of challenges or problems encountered.

1. Conducts research and maintains currency of information regarding the application and practical matters of zoning.
2. Conducts case reviews and ensures compliance with upcoming projects such as subdivisions and developments, as well as renovations.
3. Writes reports, ensuring that the content is accurate, clear, and concise, and is consistent with established form and format. 

1. Attends public hearings, planning and zoning meetings.
2. Presents information regarding planning functions, case reviews, and compliance issues, as requested.
3. Maintains hard copy and electronic files, records, and documents.
4. Writes, and contributes to reports regarding city planning, zoning, and compliance matters.
5. Conducts special studies regarding unique situations or circumstances.
6. Considers and assembles information, documents, and the incorporation of ordinances; makes recommendations.
7. Researches and considers the impacts of variances, annexations, and other circumstances having multiple factors.
8. Utilizes specialized tools and software.
9. Utilizes electronic office equipment and communication devises.
10. Drives throughout the City to make site visits.
11. Takes photographs of work sites to verify and illustrate compliance matters.
12. Attends professional development and training courses and programs.

1. Participates in departmental initiatives and projects.
2. Provides professional planning support to City departments as requested.
3. Performs other job-related tasks as required or assigned.

1. Possess a bachelor’s degree in planning, building science, or a related program such as construction from an accredited college or university.
2. Minimum of four (4) years of professional work experience as a planner is required. An additional two (2) years of professional work experience as a planner in a local government is preferred.
3. Previous work experience in construction, and in using ARC Maps, GIS systems, and other specialized tools and software.
4. Consideration may be given to combinations of experience noted in items 2, 3, and 4 that demonstrate and support the knowledge, skills, and abilities, and the essential functions, commensurate with the requirements of successfully performing this job.
5. Credentials (certification) through American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) is preferred.
6. Possess a current and valid driver’s license; must be insurable.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
(* Can be acquired on the job)
 

1. *Knowledge of City rules, regulations, ordinances, policies, and procedures.
2. *Knowledge of City geography, location of City properties, and of utilities.
3. Knowledge of planning processes, functions, and skill sets, and the ability to apply knowledge to the practical development and modifications of the City systems.
4. Knowledge and ability to perform case reviews to determine compliance.
5. Knowledge, skills, and functionality of project management.
6. Knowledge of safety rules including accident causation and prevention.
7. Communication skills to effectively communicate internally and externally, both orally and in writing.
8. Verbal skills to effectively communicate with co-workers, supervisors, elected and appointed officials, contractors, utilizing a variety of methods. 
9. Writing skills to develop professional reports, and other materials using correct English, grammar, punctuation, and spelling.
10. Listening skills.
11. Reading skills to understand and interpret state, federal and local laws, ordinances, directives, procedures, and instructions.
12. Skills to use and apply planning principles during project planning and at the work site.
13. Skills to work with ARC Maps, geographic information systems (GIS) systems, and other specialized software, methods, and tools.
14. Math skills to perform sophisticated measurements and calculations. 
15. Ability to assimilate data and information and formulate recommendations.
16. Ability to evaluate changing circumstances and situations and make effective decisions in response.
17. Ability to oversee work site functions and intervene, as necessary.
18. Ability to operate standard office equipment.
19. Ability to use computers and office productivity software.
20. Ability to maintain sensitive and confidential information.
21. Ability to represent the City in a positive and professional manner.
22. Ability to use electronic communication devices.
23. Ability to deal with all contacts in a courteous and patient manner.
24. Ability to interact calmly with challenging and irate individuals.
25. Ability to handle dynamic situations in a calm and courteous manner.
26. Ability to prioritize work projects and multi-task.
27. Ability to organize files and work projects.
28. Ability to work with little or no supervision.  
29. Ability to work outside, with extended standing and walking around work sites with rough and uneven surfaces.
30. Ability to wear and utilize appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).
31. Ability to drive.