Shreveport Metropolitan Planning Commission is seeking to add a new member into our highly qualified, diverse, and dynamic team of professional planners. We are seeking a recent graduate, a student that may be graduating soon or other candidates with experience and education in related fields that may be available for immediate employment. No experience is required. Receive valuable on the job training from experienced AICP credentialed planners.

The position requires a bachelor's degree in urban planning, architecture, landscape architecture, GIS, public policy, or related field. Combinations of education and experience equivalent with the minimum requirement (in the required fields) may be considered at the discretion of the Executive Director. Must have strong communication and customer service skills as well as experience with research and compiling data for reports associated with development review.

SALARY RANGE

$52,000 - $56,000 annually

GENERAL DESCRIPTION

The position of Planner I is an entry level professional planner position. 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 involving community and neighborhood planning. Planner I personnel serve under the direct supervision of the Senior Planning Coordinator.

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 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.
• Prepares GIS maps for land development applications and updates the official zoning map
• 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.

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, September 19, 2025. (Note: the Executive Director reserves the right to interview and make employment offers at any time during the posting period).