The associate planner performs professional work within current planning, long-range planning, and/or environmental analysis for the City of Gig Harbor. As assigned by the principal planner, the incumbent may have final authority on certain land use decisions, including short subdivisions, shoreline permits or exemptions.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

The job duties and responsibilities represented in this job description do not imply that these are the only duties to be performed. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to undertake other projects consistent with the role as requested by a supervisor.

• Provides basic and comprehensive information and interpretation of applicable city land use and development codes to the general public, the development community, employees of the city, and elected officials.
• Reviews parcel and subdivision maps, and site and building plans for compliance with appropriate regulations; works with property owners and the development community on acceptable property development and land use.
• Processes land use permits such as shoreline, zoning, conditional use, variances, rezones, site plans, subdivisions, and short plats; prepare reports and recommendations; conduct public meetings and hearings before the city design review board and city hearing examiner.
• Prepares and/or reviews environmental checklists; provide technical assistance in the analysis, coordination, and implementation of environmental requirements and regulations under the city environmental code.
• Implements effective and trackable procedures for reviewing the processing of approved development plans, construction plans, and construction performance to assure compliance with city codes.
• Under direction, conducts special land use, land economics, demographic, social, and economic studies and review other relevant factors relating to comprehensive planning issues.
• Reviews and recommends changes to the city comprehensive plan and land use codes, provide professional policy guidance to the planning commission in writing, revising, and updating the comprehensive plan and participate in planning commission hearings.
• Prepares public notices, meeting agendas, and reviews meeting minutes.
• Investigates potential violations of city land use regulations; assists in the preparation of documentation reports and notices of violation and assessment of city penalties.
• Coordinates project activities with other staff, city departments, county and state agencies, and the city design review board.
• Assists in the preparation and management of state and federal grants.
• May support in leading part-time, temporary, or intern personnel within the division.
• Maintains punctual and reliable attendance.

QUALIFICATIONS

Any combination of education, training and experience that indicates the individual can successfully perform the job may be considered.

• Bachelor's degree in City and Regional Planning, Urban Planning, Community Planning, or closely related field from an accredited college or university.
• Three (3) years of progressively responsible experience in municipal planning.
• Work experience with a government agency preferred.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite.

CERTIFICATES AND LICENSES

The following certifications and licenses are required for the position (or must be obtained within the timeframe stated) and must be maintained for the duration of employment.

• A valid Washington State driver's license and at least two years of driving experience.
• American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) Certification preferred.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

• A history of and ability to maintain safe and responsible driving that meets the city's motor vehicle record minimum driving requirements.
• Ability to pass position relevant pre-employment screening.