GENERAL DESCRIPTION

The position of Planner I is an entry level professional planner position in the Land Development Division. The primary responsibility is for the intake and processing of development applications that will be submitted to the Metropolitan Planning Commission (MPC) Board and the Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA). Applications are also processed for site development plans that are evaluated by staff and recommendations prepared for the Executive Director's approval. This position may also be involved in a variety of planning related activities in the Community Planning Division on an as needed basis. The Land Development Division is overseen by the Deputy Director at the discretion of the Executive Director. Planner I personnel assigned to this division serve under the direct supervision of the Land Development Coordinator. Those who qualify as Planner II will be responsible for more complex and challenging assignments that that of Planner I.

EXAMPLES OF WORK PERFORMED

• Performs professional work related to a variety of planning assignments.
• Processing of submitted applications, verifies the accuracy of legal property descriptions.
• Prepares staff reports and assists in making recommendations to the Executive Director regarding MPC and ZBA agenda items.
• Presents staff assessments of cases to the MPC and ZBA boards.
• Assist in the preparation of maps and other data necessary for processing of development applications.
• Participates in bi-weekly Pre-Application Conferences in order to receive preliminary application comments regarding site plan review from the relevant associated agency representatives.
• Evaluates or assists in the evaluation of re-zonings, ordinance text amendments, site plans, special use permits, variances and other proposals.
• Research and process zoning verification requests.
• Reviews and processes applications for subdivision plats.
• Reviews and processes applications for telecommunication facilities.
• Assists or acts as a liaison between community groups, government agencies, developers and elected officials in the development of neighborhood plans as needed.
• Reviews or assists in the review of development proposals and site plans for conformance with codes, plans and regulations.
• Collects a variety of statistical data and prepares reports and maps on topics such as census information, land use, other publicly accessible data.
• Assists in resolving citizen and customer issues.
• Conducts field evaluations and assessments.
• Provides information to the public regarding development regulations.
• Performs other duties as assigned by the Executive Director.

GENERAL QUALIFICATIONS

Knowledge

• Knowledge of the philosophies, practices & techniques of planning.
• Knowledge of a relevant specialization such as transportation, land use, or affordable housing is desired.
• Knowledge of principles and practices of research and collection.
• Knowledge of effective writing techniques.
• Knowledge of computer hardware and software programs, which include Microsoft Office, Internet applications, and GIS.

Skills and Abilities

• Oral communication and interpersonal skills to explain rules and procedures clearly to the public.
• Creative problem-solving skills to gather relevant information to solve vaguely defined practical problems.
• Ability to review plans and apply provisions of the ordinances and codes to determine compliance with such regulations and to apply regulations to field conditions.
• Ability to work on several projects or issues simultaneously.
• Ability to work independently or in a team environment as needed.
• Ability to attend to details while keeping big-picture goals in mind.
• Interpersonal skills for facilitating relationships with elected/appointed officials or other decision makers.
• Ability to manage projects effectively and meet firm deadlines.
• Consistently demonstrates respect, responsiveness, and professionalism towards others while providing superior service for customers.
• Works effectively with colleagues, subordinates, and supervisors from all backgrounds and levels.

SALARY RANGE

$50,000 - $56,200 annually for Planner I

$56,000 - $62,000 annually for Planner II

Benefits

Health and dental insurance and a retirement plan are offered with a required nominal employee contribution.

DEADLINE AND FORM OF RESPONSE

A letter of interest, resume, will be accepted by e-mail or postal service until mid-night (CST) on Friday, February 17, 2025. (Note: the Executive Director reserves the right to interview and make employment offers at any time during the posting period).