Senior Planner

Land Use Planner

Performs advanced professional land use planning functions related to the promotion and implementation of comprehensive plan goals, and the administration of zoning ordinance provisions in the Planning Division of the Department of Planning and Development Services. May serve as liaison to various boards and commissions. Provides information and assists the public with rezoning and use permit processes; reviews applications and coordinates internal staff review; prepares and presents technical reports on land use, community facilities, and environmental and economic impact of development. Handles major programs. May perform some of the duties of the Principal Planner. Depending on the incumbent's functional assignment, job responsibilities may include any of the following. This is not meant to be an exhaustive list of job functions but a representative sample of the type and level of work that is expected in this position. Performs special and/or permanent assignments with specific responsibility for a major segment of the planning program, such as the comprehensive planning and community development programs. Prepares and develops Comprehensive Plan elements, including project design, formulation of work program, research, data analysis, and alternatives development; writes, designs, and edits text and graphics for plan document; presents concepts and data analysis to Commission/Board of Supervisors; participates in discussions with the Planning Commission or Board of Supervisors. Prepares and develops revisions to County plans and ordinances, including research, analysis, and writing; serves as a facilitator and coordinates interaction among citizens, state and local governmental agencies, Planning Commissioners, and Board of Supervisors; determines and develops policy bases and research for implementing policies; drafts ordinance language, presents and explains various issues to Commission, Board, or public. Performs reviews of rezoning and use permits, and other similar applications to ensure compliance with local, state, and federal planning and zoning ordinances and other policies and regulations related to land development and use. Assists the public and staff with inquiries pertaining to various planning issues, including but not limited to zoning, subdivision, and other land use ordinances, etc. Performs current planning studies relating to land use issues, County facilities and program needs, etc. Prepares Planning Commission and Board of Supervisors materials such as memoranda, resolutions, and ordinances; reviews staff comments and incorporates into staff reports. Provides staff support to various boards, commissions, and committees. Represents the County on various local and regional committees on topics such as transportation, land use, historical resources preservation, hazard mitigation, and environmental planning.

Minimum Qualifications

Requires a master's degree in urban planning, public administration, or a related field with a minimum of three years of experience in local government, preferably with some lead experience; or any equivalent combination of education and experience, which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities. Possession of a valid driver's license issued by the Commonwealth of Virginia. American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) designation is preferred.

This job is contingent upon successful completion of pre-employment checks to include criminal history, background and DMV record checks.

Supplemental Information

Thorough knowledge of long-range planning principles and practices. Thorough knowledge of the interpretation of zoning ordinances. Thorough knowledge of research and analysis techniques. Thorough knowledge of and skill in using personal computers and Geographic Information System (GIS). Excellent oral and written communication skills. Ability to plan, organize, and perform complex research and planning projects. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships. Conflict management and dispute resolution skills. Some knowledge of supervisory principles and practices.

Physical Demands

Must be physically able to operate a variety of automated office machines, including a computer, printer, copier, etc. Work involves sitting most of the time but may involve walking or standing for periods of time, while doing site or field work.