Planning Technician

Position Information

The purpose of this classification is to process land development plans, if assigned to the Development Review Division.

Essential Functions

The following duties are normal for this position. The omission of specific statements of the duties does not exclude them from the classification if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment for this classification. Other duties may be required and assigned. Conducts research of geographical information system (GIS) system, computer databases, internet sites, site plans and construction plans for accuracy and applicable county requirements prior to processing. Operates a computer to enter, retrieve, review or modify data; verifies accuracy of entered data and makes corrections; utilizes word processing, spreadsheet, database, geographical information system (GIS) system, email, internet, or other computer programs. Prepares and/or receives various forms, reports, correspondence, applications, legal advertisements, agendas, meeting minutes, agenda requests, resolutions, confirmation letters, completes, processes, forwards or retain as appropriate. Receives moneys in payment of rezoning application fees, grading permit fees, or other departmental fees/services; records transactions, issues receipts, and forwards revenues as appropriate. Communicates with supervisor, employees, other departments, County officials, attorneys, the public, outside agencies, and other individuals as needed to coordinate work activities, review status of work, exchange information, or resolve problems. Attends meetings as needed. Assignment as Planning Technician in the Development Review Division may include the following duties: Prepares monthly submitted/approved grading permit reports; distributes to other departments and to the public. Provides support to other County departments regarding project submittal, review, and approval, facilitates preapplication meetings, maintains documentation of projects per state and local open records laws and record retention, follows Board of Commissioners agenda and minutes for actions on active projects and code changes. Additional functions performs general/clerical tasks, which may include answering telephone calls, typing documents, making copies, filing documentation, or processing incoming/outgoing mail. Provides information and assistance to citizens, property owners, land developers, contractors, architects, staff members, County officials, or other individuals/agencies regarding land use issues, code/ordinances, or application procedures. Provides assistance to other employees or departments as needed. Performs other related duties as required.

Minimum Qualifications

High school diploma or GED; supplemented by college level course work or vocational training in office administration, and personal computer operations; supplemented by one (1) year previous experience and/or training involving office administration, computerized mapping, database administration, and personal computer operations; or any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience which provides the requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities for this job.

Supplemental Information

PERFORMANCE BASED INTERNAL PROMOTION TRACK Within the Planning and Community Development Department are internal promotional opportunities where qualified staff may apply for other positions at a higher pay grade. After two (2) years of relevant experience as a Planning Technician and having demonstrated the ability to perform the essential functions of the job, the incumbent may be eligible to apply for a Planner I position. After two (2) years of relevant experience as a Planner I and having demonstrated the ability to perform the essential functions of the job, the incumbent may be eligible to apply for a Planner II position.

Benefits provided by Forsyth County to full-time employees include personal leave accrual, observed holidays, medical insurance, dental insurance, vision insurance, basic life & AD&D insurance, disability insurance – short term and long term, additional life insurance and AD&D, and retirement plan (401K).