Senior Planner

POSITION SUMMARY Reviews plans and site plans for conformance with the Unified Development Code and makes recommendations; provide staff support for citizen boards associated with the department; participates in research projects and supervises the development review process to ensure compliance, accuracy, efficiency, and exemplary customer service.

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ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Management reserves the right to add, modify, change, or rescind the work assignments of different positions and to make reasonable accommodations so that qualified employees can perform the essential functions of the job.

• Reviews and analyzes plats, site plans, subdivision and development proposals; conducts site visits and discussions with developers, engineers, etc.; prepares written recommendations to various boards.
• Advises developers, architects, builders, and the general public on development issues.
• Reviews and analyzes Zoning Board of Adjustment cases and makes written recommendations.
• Provides staff support for various boards associated with the department, including preparation/provision of agendas, minutes and other pertinent materials.
• Conducts various research projects as assigned and prepares reports.
• Coordinates with all internal departments on complex commercial and residential projects.
• Works closely with other departments on highly-sensitive development issues, including planning, engineering, and economic development issues.
• Advises the City Manager’s office on all development-related issues.
• Receives, processes, schedules, and facilitates pre-development and Development Review Committee (“DRC”) meeting requests.
• Oversees and facilitates the DRC meetings and any other pre-development meetings.
• Schedules and facilitates follow-up meetings from DRC, pre-development, and assigned projects
• Develops agendas for all DRC meetings.
• Serves as an ombudsman to the development and business community.
• Prepares reports on operation, processes, and activities related to the development review process, recommending improvements and modifications when necessary.
• Communicates and builds relationships with other governmental entities (TNMP, USACE, DCTA, TxDOT. etc…) to improve on inter-agency collaboration and efficiencies.
• Works with appropriate department directors, assigns work and/or deadlines to professional staff that are part of the development review team.
• Recommend and coordinate process changes, including any necessary code revisions, to create greater compliance, accuracy, and efficiencies in permitting process.
• Develops and implements customer satisfaction surveys throughout the development process.
• Communicates effectively and courteously with public, vendors, contractors, customers, board members and staff, in writing, via the internet, and by phone.
• Manages the Development Activity Report.
• Utilizes project management software for efficiency and processing.
• Makes presentations at City Council and/or other City board meetings.
• Develops meaningful metrics, goals, and reports to monitor efficiency and accuracy of the development review process.
• Help maintain consistent review standards in Bluebeam for all development staff.
• Participates in various evening and/or weekend meetings as assigned.
• Performs all other related duties as assigned.

POSITION QUALIFICATIONS

Education: Bachelor's Degree in Urban Planning or related field. Master’s Degree preferred.

Experience: 5 years of professional planning experience.

Any combination of related, education, experience, certifications, and licenses that will result in a candidate successfully performing the essential functions of the job is an acceptable substitute for the above specified education and experience requirements.

Other Requirements: Must obtain American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) certification within one year of the hire date.

Conditions of Employment: Must submit to and pass a pre-employment drug test.

Must possess a valid State of Texas Driver’s License Class “C” and good driving record as defined by City policy.

Other Requirements: Bilingual preferred.Must be able to attend evening, night, and weekend meetings.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES

Knowledge of: Principles of city planning, land use, zoning, and public administration; local, state, and federal laws, codes, and regulations; and computer hardware and software programs, including Microsoft Office, internet applications, econometric or transportation modeling, database management, and geographic information systems (GIS).

Skilled In: Using a personal computer, including Microsoft Office, OpenOffice, or similar word processing programs, email, and the internet; basic mapping, drafting, and photography; problem-solving; and strong analytical skills to interpret research data for reports and apply mathematical techniques to practical solutions. Demonstrates strong interpersonal skills to develop effective working relationships at various levels and resolve complaints, along with an innovative, detail-oriented approach and experience working on highly visible or controversial projects; accept responsibility and account for actions; follow instructions, safety practices, and standard operating procedures; maintain punctuality and regular attendance; work effectively with people regardless of age, gender, race, ethnicity, religion, or job type; perform work accurately and thoroughly; communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing; interpret City ordinances and code requirements; communicate effectively with the public; and manage projects effectively while meeting firm deadlines.

Physical Demands and Working Conditions : This is primarily a sedentary office classification although standing in work areas and walking between work areas may be required. Finger dexterity is needed to access, enter, and retrieve data using a computer keyboard or calculator and to operate standard office equipment; vision to read printed materials and a computer screen; hearing and speech to communicate in person and over the telephone. Positions in this classification occasionally bend, stoop, kneel, reach, push, and pull drawers open and closed to retrieve and file information. Employees must possess the ability to lift, carry, push, and pull materials and objects weighing up to 25 pounds.

Employees work in an office environment with moderate noise levels, controlled temperature conditions, and no direct exposure to hazardous physical substances. Employees may interact with upset staff and/or public and private representatives in interpreting and enforcing departmental policies and procedures. Employees work occasionally in the field and may be exposed to loud noise levels, cold and/or hot temperatures, inclement weather conditions, road and/or land hazards, confining workspace, chemicals, mechanical and/or electrical hazards, and hazardous physical substances and fumes.

The City of Lewisville has reviewed this job description to ensure that essential functions and basic duties have been included. The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed and are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all functions, responsibilities, skills, and abilities, which may be required. Additional functions and requirements may be assigned by supervisors as deemed appropriate. The position also requires meeting the essential requirements of the Physical Demands and Working Conditions, with or without reasonable accommodation.

Levels of positions within a class series are distinguished by the level of responsibility assumed, the complexity of duties assigned, the independence of action taken, the nature of the public contact made, and the impact and span of tasks performed.

This job description is not an employment agreement or contract. The City of Lewisville has the exclusive right to alter this job description at any time without notice.

PAY, BENEFITS & WHAT WE OFFER

More Than a Job — Build Your Career with Lewisville

Join the City of Lewisville and enjoy a competitive total rewards package designed to support you at work, at home, and throughout your career.

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Work Hours: This position follows the City of Lewisville’s flexible work week, with a typical schedule of:

• Monday through Thursday 7:30 AM–5:30 PM
• Friday 7:30–11:30 AM

This schedule provides employees with a shorter Friday while supporting work-life balance and continued service to our community.

Salary Range: $74,622 - $106,279

Here’s how our salary ranges work:

• Hiring Range: $74,622 - $83,214

This is the range used to determine the starting annual salary for a new employee. Your starting annual salary within this range is based on factors such as your education, relevant experience, certifications, and licenses.

• Full Salary Range: $74,622 - $106,279

This is the full annual salary range for the position. As you gain experience, develop your skills, and demonstrate successful performance in the role, you may have opportunities for salary growth within the full range.