Planner

Job Title

Responsible for reviewing development applications and permits and preparing planning reports for Township of Lower Merion (Township).

Job Description

Responsible for reviewing development applications and permits and preparing planning reports for Township of Lower Merion (Township). Work involves reviewing and tracking development plans for completeness and compliance with Township codes, providing information to interested parties regarding land use policy, and making recommendations regarding land use proposals. Reviews subdivision and land development applications, conducts ordinance and zoning reviews and participates in long-range planning efforts. Ensures compliance with local, state and federal rules and regulations. Work is performed independently under general supervision with moderate latitude in the use of initiative and independent judgment. Position typically requires processing and interpreting of less clearly defined issues. Works under the general supervision of the Assistant Director of Planning.

Duties

Reviews land development applications and conditional use requests in accordance with Township, county and state codes. Presents reviews and relevant information to the Planning Commission, ad-hoc committees and the public. Conducts data searches, reviews existing reports and updates data spreadsheets. Prepares planning memos, reports and studies related to long-range master plans and housing. Attends meetings and participates in steering committees as representative of department. Processes land development escrow return requests and maintains escrow databases. Publishes data analysis reports, planning policy briefings, code amendments and ordinances. Coordinates the review and approval process with outside agencies such as County Board of Assessment and County Planning Commission. Maintains department files for maps, permits, development applications and code amendments. Assists with preparation of graphics for public meetings and presentations. Computes areas and dimensions, compiles statistical data, completes forms and prepares reports. Assists in preparing agendas and minutes for advisory committees. Upholds strict confidentiality in dealing with sensitive information, including personnel matters, legal documents, financial data, contracts, and other proprietary information. Responds to inquiries, questions and comments from the public per established standards and protocols; responds to and resolves difficult and sensitive inquiries, issues and complaints. Attends and participates in professional group meetings; stays current on new trends and best practices. May be required to attend evening or weekend meetings and events based on organizational responsibilities and requirements. Performs duties of lower-level classifications, as necessary. May be assigned to other departments or divisions to perform required duties, as needed. May provide or coordinate staff training.

Qualifications

High school diploma or GED and seven (7) years of increasingly responsible land use planning experience; OR associate degree in urban planning or a related field and five (5) years of experience as listed above; OR bachelor's degree in urban planning or a related field and three (3) years of experience as listed above; OR a combination of experience, certification, education and training that demonstrates expertise in the related areas. Must successfully pass all conditions of employment which may include a pre-employment physical. Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license. American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) certification or related professional certification preferred. Experience with geospatial analysis tools preferred. Knowledge of state, county and local codes, ordinances, standards, specifications, policies and procedures pertaining to planning, zoning, land development and land use. Knowledge of Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning Code (MPC) and Township planning policies. Knowledge of architecture and architectural terms. Skill in the use of Microsoft Office products (Word, Outlook and Excel) and applicable department and organization specific software; ability to learn and become proficient in the use of other specialized software as may be required. Skill in the use of raster and vector graphics editing. Ability to communicate verbally and in writing with the public and Township officials. Ability to synthesize reports, studies and data to address planning-related needs. Ability to write clear and concise technical reports and correspondence. Ability to read, interpret, draft and revise maps and plans. Ability to work cooperatively as a member of a service-oriented team. Skill in adapting to a changing work environment and competing demands. Ability to manage multiple priorities to ensure that deadlines are met and to set priorities that move projects through efficiently to achieve customer and quality objectives. Ability to correctly interpret and efficiently implement all applicable policies and procedures. Ability to follow Township and public safety guidelines and protocols and perform job functions in a safe manner. Ability to handle difficult and stressful situations with professional composure, diffuse potentially confrontational situations and resolve disputes. Ability to maintain regular attendance to ensure efficient and effective performance of job duties. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with those interacted with during work regardless of race, color, religious creed, national origin, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, genetic information, disability, political affiliation, military service or diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds.

Physical Requirements

Depending on functional area of assignment, tasks involve the ability to exert light physical effort in sedentary to light work, which may involve some lifting, carrying, pushing and/or pulling of objects and materials of light weight (up to 30 pounds). Tasks may involve extended periods of time at a keyboard or workstation and extended periods of time standing and/or walking. Tasks are regularly performed inside and outside with potential for exposure to adverse conditions, such as dirt, dust, pollen, odors, fumes and/or poor ventilation, wetness, humidity, rain, temperature and noise extremes, machinery and/or moving vehicles, vibrations, electric currents, animals/wildlife, toxic/poisonous agents, gases or chemicals, oils and other cutting fluids, violence and/or disease or pathogenic substances. Some tasks require manual dexterity, in addition to visual and hearing acuity. Some tasks may involve identifying and distinguishing colors. Some tasks require the ability to perceive and discriminate visual cues or signals. Some tasks require the ability to communicate orally and in writing.