Planner

Job Title

Primary Reason Why Classification Exists

To provide professional planning services related to the administration and enforcement of land development regulations and planning programs within the City. This position is responsible for reviewing development applications, assisting customers and applicants, administering development regulations, conducting planning research, and supporting boards, commissions, and planning initiatives.

Distinguishing Features of the Class

An employee in this class performs entry-level to intermediate professional planning work involving zoning administration, subdivision review, stormwater administration, development services, and customer assistance. Emphasis of the work is on development review, ordinance administration, customer service, technical analysis, GIS support, and coordination with applicants, citizens, consultants, and other City departments. Work is performed under the supervision of the Planning Director or designee and is evaluated based on accuracy, responsiveness, customer service, regulatory compliance, and achievement of departmental objectives.

Illustrative Examples of Work

Illustrative Examples of Work

• Reviews zoning permits, site plans, subdivision plats, stormwater permits, and other development applications for compliance with applicable regulations
• Provides customer service and technical assistance to citizens, property owners, developers, contractors, and design professionals regarding planning, zoning, permitting, and development requirements
• Administers and interprets zoning, subdivision, and stormwater ordinances; conducts site inspections and investigations related to development activities and zoning compliance
• Prepares reports, staff recommendations, public notices, correspondence, presentations, and other planning-related documents
• Provides staff support to the Planning Commission, Board of Adjustment, Subdivision Review Board, City Council, and other assigned boards and committees
• Maintains development records, permit files, addressing records, GIS databases, and other planning-related information systems
• Performs GIS mapping, data collection, research, and analysis in support of current and long-range planning activities
• Coordinates development reviews with City departments and outside agencies and responds to citizen inquiries and concerns regarding planning and development matters
• Assists with special projects, planning studies, community development initiatives, and other departmental activities
• Performs other duties as required

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• General knowledge of the principles and practices of urban planning, zoning administration, subdivision review, and land development regulations
• General knowledge of stormwater management and related development review processes
• Working knowledge of local government operations and applicable federal, state, and local regulations
• Some knowledge of GIS applications and mapping principles
• Ability to analyze and interpret technical reports, construction plans, surveys, plats, ordinances, and regulations
• Ability to compile, analyze, and present technical and statistical information
• Ability to prepare clear and concise reports, correspondence, and presentations
• Ability to communicate effectively with the public, developers, consultants, elected officials, and coworkers
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with associates, contractors, consultants, government agencies, and the general public
• Ability to enforce regulations with professionalism, tact, and diplomacy
• Skill in providing effective customer service and resolving issues through collaborative problem-solving

Requirements

Physical Requirements

Work in this classification is defined as sedentary work requiring the exertion of up to 20 pounds of force occasionally and up to 10 pounds of force frequently to move objects. The employee must possess the visual acuity necessary to review plans, maps, reports, and computer-generated information, as well as recognize conditions encountered during field inspections and site visits.

Working Conditions

Work is generally performed in an office environment with occasional field work. The employee may be required to conduct site inspections and field investigations and may be exposed to varying weather conditions, uneven terrain, construction activities, and moving equipment. Work involves regular contact with the public, developers, contractors, consultants, and other governmental agencies. The position also requires attendance at evening meetings of boards, commissions, and public hearings as assigned.

Education and Experience

Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Bachelor's degree in Planning, Geography, Public Administration, Community Development, Environmental Studies, or a related field is preferred. Some experience in planning, zoning administration, GIS, development review, customer service, or local government operations is required. An equivalent combination of education, training, and experience providing the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to adequately perform the essential duties of the position will be considered.

Special Requirements

• Valid North Carolina driver's license
• GIS experience preferred