PLANNING TECHNICIAN

About Company:

Why Work for the City of Balch Springs?

The City of Balch Springs is a vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable community that thrives on its rich history, commitment to progress, and dedication to fostering a positive work environment. As a city, we focus on enhancing the quality of life for our residents, businesses, and visitors.

We are a forward-thinking organization that embraces innovation and strives for excellence in every department. With our clear vision to inspire growth and community pride, the City of Balch Springs is an excellent place to build a rewarding career. Whether you're passionate about public safety, economic development, or community engagement, we offer diverse opportunities that allow you to make a meaningful impact.

As an employee of the City of Balch Springs, you'll be part of a supportive team where professional development is encouraged, and collaboration is valued. We believe in providing employees with the tools and resources they need to succeed, ensuring a positive work-life balance and fostering a culture of respect, integrity, and open communication.

Employee Benefits & Compensation:

• Competitive Salary: We offer competitive pay based on qualifications and experience.
• Comprehensive Benefits Package: Includes medical, dental, and vision coverage for employees and their families.
• Retirement Plans: Access to a retirement savings plan to help you plan for the future.
• Paid Leave: Generous paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
• Work-Life Balance: We prioritize a balanced work-life environment, offering flexible scheduling when possible.
• Professional Development: Opportunities for training, certifications, and career advancement within the city.
• Employee Recognition: We value and celebrate the hard work and dedication of our employees.

Our core values of integrity, respect, and transparency guide our everyday work, and we actively support our employees' professional growth. Join our team and help shape the future of a city that's committed to creating a thriving environment for all.

About the Role:

The Planning Technician plays a critical role in supporting urban and regional planning initiatives by providing technical expertise and detailed analysis to ensure sustainable land use and development. This position focuses on integrating historic preservation, zoning regulations, and environmental considerations into comprehensive planning efforts that promote economic development and community well-being. The Planning Technician collaborates with various stakeholders, including government agencies, developers, and the general public, to facilitate informed decision-making and compliance with local, state, and federal regulations. A key outcome of this role is the preparation and maintenance of accurate land use plans, flood control strategies, and environmental plans that align with long-term urban growth objectives. Ultimately, the Planning Technician contributes to creating resilient, well-organized communities that balance development needs with environmental stewardship and cultural heritage preservation.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Associate degree or higher in Urban Planning, Geography, Environmental Science, or a related field.
• Demonstrated knowledge of land use, zoning laws, and urban planning principles.
• Experience with historic preservation practices and environmental planning.
• Proficiency in geographic information systems (GIS) and related mapping software.
• Strong communication skills to effectively interact with the public and stakeholders.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Urban Planning, Environmental Planning, or related discipline.
• Experience working with economic development projects and flood control planning.
• Familiarity with federal and state regulations related to land use and environmental protection.
• Certification in planning or related professional credentials (e.g., AICP, APA).
• Advanced skills in GIS software and data analysis tools.

Responsibilities:

• Conduct detailed research and analysis related to historic preservation, land use, zoning, and urban planning regulations.
• Assist in the preparation, review, and updating of land use plans, environmental plans, and flood control measures.
• Collaborate with economic development teams to assess the impact of proposed projects on community growth and sustainability.
• Engage with the general public and stakeholders to gather input, provide information, and address concerns related to planning initiatives.
• Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal regulations by reviewing development proposals and zoning applications.
• Maintain accurate records, maps, and databases related to land use, zoning, and environmental planning.
• Support the planning department in preparing reports, presentations, and documentation for public meetings and regulatory bodies.

Skills:

The Planning Technician utilizes a combination of technical and interpersonal skills daily to support comprehensive planning efforts. Proficiency in GIS and mapping software enables precise analysis and visualization of land use and environmental data, which informs decision-making and plan development. Knowledge of historic preservation and zoning regulations ensures that development proposals comply with legal and cultural standards, preserving community heritage. Effective communication skills are essential for engaging with the general public and stakeholders, facilitating collaboration and transparency throughout the planning process. Additionally, skills in economic development and flood control planning help the technician contribute to sustainable growth strategies that balance development with environmental resilience.