PURPOSE

This position performs advanced professional planning work for a growing town with a population of about 17,000 people. This position is expected to have the necessary knowledge and judgment to ensure the orderly regulation of growth and efficient administration of resources. The Senior Planner position requires thorough understanding of the Town's ordinances and codes and the appropriate application of the same to specific situations. Extensive judgment and initiative are required in conducting research projects, compiling technical reports and presentations and making recommendations. A Senior Planner must be both a skilled leader and follower and have the professional experience to understand and practice the difference. Exceptional communication skills and the ability to rely on experience to instinctively understand how the pieces of the community development puzzle fit together must be exercised in frequent contact with citizens, contractors, and developers in addition to other local, state, and federal officials.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Takes a lead role reviewing complex development projects for compliance with town ordinances and plans; participates in the Technical Review Committee; researches and prepares recommendations for board consideration; reviews rezoning applications and administrative, site and subdivision plans for compliance with town codes; provides considerable guidance in advising developers on the consistency of their interests with Town land use plans.
• Develops, coordinates, and recommends a variety of special and continuing plans related to the growth, development, and redevelopment of the Town.
• Serves as support staff to Town Council, Planning Board, Board of Adjustment and the Historic District Commission. Also serves as support staff to other committees, commissions, and task forces as directed.
• Participates in workshops, meetings and public hearings to explain planning proposals; answers citizen questions concerning plans and problems; makes various presentations of staff recommendations and possible scenarios.
• Coordinates planning activities with affected federal, state, town, regional and private agencies; coordinates approval processes.
• Provides research and input into the development of ordinances, policies and procedures for the Town and the department.
• Provides guidance to developers and design professionals on the consistency of their interests with Town requirements.

EDUCATION, SKILLS AND CERTIFICATIONS

• Bachelor's degree in planning or a related field with three or more years of experience in the planning profession is typically required. A different combination of relevant education and work experience may also be considered.
• Thorough knowledge of local, state, and federal laws, regulations, zoning, land use, and other ordinances and codes in the area of assignment.
• Thorough knowledge of the principles and practices of the community and economic development field of public sector planning.
• Thorough knowledge of governmental laws, programs, and services pertinent to the community and economic development and planning processes.
• Thorough knowledge of the environmental and socio-economic implications of the planning process.
• Thorough knowledge of modern and effective current and long-range planning principles and practices.
• Considerable skill in the collection, analysis, and presentation of technical data, the formulating and communication of planning recommendations, and the ability to coordinate public participation processes.
• Considerable knowledge of the application of information technology to the work of the department.
• Skill in collaborative conflict resolution.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with coworkers, community groups, local, state and federal officials and the general public.
• Ability to plan, organize and coordinate large projects involving various interest groups and complete the project within established time frames.
• Ability to express ideas effectively in oral and written forms and make effective public presentations.
• Ability to build consensus, and to work collaboratively with developers and the community regarding development.
• CZO certification, or the ability to achieve CZO certification within 18 months, is required.
• AICP and/or CFM certifications are desirable but not required.
• A valid drivers' license and an excellent driving record are required.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Must be able to perform the basic physical life operational functions of reaching, crouching, standing, walking, fingering, grasping, talking, hearing, and repetitive motions.
• Must be able to visit, inspect and travel on foot around construction sites where ground may be uneven, rough and wet or slippery. Must also be able to visit, inspect and travel on foot around buildings/construction sites that are in various stages of completion requiring recognition of potential hazards and agility in navigating the site. May require the ability to climb/descend ladders.
• Must be able to perform light work including the ability to lift, carry and move up to 20 pounds occasionally, 10 pounds of force frequently, and/or a negligible amount of force constantly.
• Must possess the visual acuity to examine and work with maps, operate a computer, inspect sites regarding planning issues, and do extensive reading.

WORKING CONDITIONS

• This position works indoors as well as outdoors year-round in all weather conditions.
• This position requires frequent evening and weekend work, with possible holiday and call-in work.
• This position works primarily in-person in a fast-paced office working environment where multi-tasking is essential.