JOB DESCRIPTION

Class Title: Planner
Grade Number: 10N; exempt
Department: Community and Economic Development
Bureau: Planning & Zoning
Non-union



GENERAL PURPOSE
The Planner provides technical support in coordinating and reviewing activities of projects proposed for development as well as in gathering, processing and analyzing qualitative and quantitative information in-aid of decision making in the field of city planning and community development. This position is responsible for performance of planning functions or implementation of projects requiring various combinations of skill in work coordination, research, analysis, development, presentation or interpretation of concepts and data pertaining to planning and implementation of plans. Work is performed with supervision by the Chief Planner and Director of Planning and assisting mid-level Planners. Knowledge and experience in a wide range of skills including but not limited to city planning, economic development, urban design and development review, land use, zoning, historic preservation, housing, transportation, environmental planning, community outreach, and neighborhood coordination.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED
Work is subject to technical review through the evaluation of reports and through conferences with supervisors. General supervision is usually received from the Chief Planner.

SUPERVISION EXERCISED
Some supervision may be exercised over clerical staff and interns.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Coordinates the review of projects proposed for construction and development using current electronic and manual systems adopted by the City.

Reviews and receives planning applications to assure completeness and compliance with city documentation requirements

Conducts studies related to comprehensive planning, housing and community development.

Gathers and interprets socio-economic, housing, and physical data on comprehensive planning issues and based on an analysis of this information prepares reports and makes recommendations with regard to projects and programs.

Works with maps, charts, graphs, and other visual aids including data processing; may work with contiguous and larger jurisdictions on common problems or conflicts in assigned area of responsibility.

Interacts with citizen groups, community based organizations and public boards, councils and commissions.

Utilizes computerized software to coordinate development reviews and prepare communications, reports, digital maps, charts, spreadsheets and presentation materials.

Provides quality and effective customer service with courtesy and understanding to our customers, citizens, and internal departments.

Receives and responds to inquiries, requests for assistance and concerns pertaining to planning projects, regulations and ordinances;

Assists in managing files on land development for efficient storage and retrieval.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Education and Experience:
Graduation from a four-year college or university with a degree in planning or closely related field
One year of related work experience, which may include part-time work or internship in planning or planning related organization.
Some experience in using planning and design-related software such as Arc GIS, ArcUrban, Adobe InDesign or a strong desire to learn relavent programs.
Willingness to seek American Institute of Certified Planning (AICP) status.



Necessary Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

Thorough knowledge and understanding of the principles and practices of city planning and community development;

Ability to coordinate complex work assignments, gather, process, analyze, and systematically compile technical and statistical information and to prepare technical reports;

Strong interpersonal skills toward developing and maintaining effective working relationships with employees, officials, other agencies, other jurisdictions, neighborhood groups and the general public;

Ability to evaluate and critique site plans and proposed ordinance amendments;

Ability to communicate ideas both in writing and orally;

Knowledge of research methodology and statistical procedures;

Ability to work with computers; proficient with standard data and word processing, project tracking, and financial management software;

TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT USED
Requires intensive daily use of personal computer. Occasional use of digital camera, scanner, and plotter.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is constantly required to sit and talk or listen. The employee is required to walk; use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools, computer, or controls; and reach with hands and arms. Frequent walking is required.

The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and the ability to adjust focus.

WORK ENVIRONMENT
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

The noise level in the work environment is usually quiet. Employees are required to drive and occasionally visit project /construction sites, and/or conduct neighborhood visual surveys.

Attendance at various evening meetings in and out of City Hall is required.



SELECTION GUIDELINES
Formal application, rating of education and experience; oral interview and reference check; job related tests may be required.

The duties listed above are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the position.

The job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and employee and is subject to change by the employer as the needs of the employer and requirements of the job change.