JOB DESCRIPTION

City Department: PLANNING

Job Family: PROFESSIONAL

Posting End: 09/10/2026

To be considered for employment, applicants must submit an official application through the City of Newport News Career Site.

To apply, visit https://www.nnva.gov/Jobs

GENERAL STATEMENT OF RESPONSIBILITIES

Under general supervision, this position performs complex work in current planning and urban design. This position serves as a lead worker. Reports to the Manager of Current Planning.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

Performs analysis and makes recommendations relative to departmental planning projects; reviews all design and site plans to ensure conformance with published urban design, architectural or landscape architecture requirements and guidelines. Assists in the review of architectural plans for public projects. Interacts with the public and others outside the work unit to obtain and provide information and assistance in a variety of circumstances. Prepares conceptual designs for future developments and participates in the development and editing of ordinances.

Coordinates with developers, architects in the design of new projects. Represents the Planning Department on committees and boards and review and recommends changes to design guidelines governing the City's Architectural Review Boards.

Performs support work for the Planning Commission; prepares recommendations, reports, and presentations on zoning applications, conditional use permits, special exceptions, and planned residential developments. Prepares summary and recommendations for City Council & Board of Zoning Appeals.

Performs other duties as assigned.

PERFORMANCE STANDARD

Employees at all levels are expected to effectively work together to meet the needs of the community and the organization through work behaviors demonstrating the City's Values. Employees are also expected to lead by example and demonstrate the highest level of ethics.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE

• Planning - Comprehensive knowledge of philosophies, practices, principles and techniques of the municipal planning process as they pertain to the development and redevelopment of urban areas.
• Policy and Procedures - Comprehensive knowledge of the City ordinances, codes and regulations pertaining to planning and urban design.

REQUIRED SKILLS

• Interpersonal Relationships/Customer Service - Develops and maintains cooperative and professional relationships with contractors, employees and the general public. Able to effectively handle routine inquiries and complaints from or disputes with customers.
• Computer Skills - Utilizes a personal computer with word processing, spreadsheet, and related software to effectively complete a variety of administrative tasks with reasonable speed and accuracy. Knowledge of techniques in preparing maps, charts, plans, sketches and other graphics.
• Critical Thinking - Using logic and reasoning to understand, analyze, and evaluate complex situations and research information to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, forecasting, conclusions or approaches.

REQUIRED ABILITIES

• Time Management - Ability to plan and organize daily work routine. Establishes priorities for the completion of work in accordance with sound time-management methodology.
• Communication - Excellent ability to listen and understand directions, information and ideas presented through spoken word or writing. Ability to handle a variety of customer service issues with tact and diplomacy and in a confidential manner.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Requires a Bachelor's degree in Planning, Urban Design, Architecture, Landscape Architecture or a closely related field and 3-5 years of experience in professional planning and urban design, OR an equivalent combination of education and experience. Master's degree preferred.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

An acceptable general background check to include a local and state criminal history check and a valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record.

BENEFITS

Medical /Rx  • Dental Insurance • Vision Insurance • Reimbursement Accounts - Flexible Spending Accounts - HSA - Dependent Care Account • Virginia Retirement System • 457 (b)  • Paid Medical Leave • Paid Personal Leave • Tuition Reimbursement Program • Skills Training • Employee Assistance Program •