Planner I Planning and Zoning

GENERAL DESCRIPTION JOB

Under general supervision, the purpose of this position is to perform administrative and clerical work of significant complexity and responsibility in supporting the permitting and development review operations of the Planning and Zoning Department. Performs varied and responsible duties in accordance with state statutes and county codes requiring a thorough knowledge of departmental operations. Exercises judgment and initiative to carry out assignments independently, analyzes situations and conditions, and determines appropriate course of action following department guidelines. This position works independently, under limited supervision, reporting major activities through periodic meetings with the Director of Planning and Zoning.

SPECIFIC DUTIES

• Coordinates communication with the Planning Commission Board and Board of Zoning Appeals. Acts as Secretary for both boards and attends all night meetings of those boards. Takes and transcribes accurate minutes, posts meetings and approved minutes to the County website.
• Maintains a computerized tracking system with electronic index for cross referencing files for recording all applications, permits, and decisions issued by staff, the Planning Commission Board and Board of Zoning Appeals.
• Maintains a comprehensive filing system within the Planning office for pending and approved Subdivisions, Site Plan Projects, Special Permits, Appeals, Variances, and subdivision plats.
• Prepares a variety of correspondence, reports, memos and other similar material for the department staff, Planning Board, and Board of Zoning Appeals; maintains appointments calendar, prepares draft Agendas, and coordinates meeting packets for each member.
• Processes land development applications; coordinates process with applicants, technical consultants, and other agencies; conducts site visits to various locations where an application has been filed to gather information utilized in preparing a staff report and to be able to answer questions about the site and the surrounding area during the public hearing to the members of the Planning Commission, County Council, and the general public.
• Aids the Planning and Zoning Director and Chief Building Official in planning related matters and various special projects.
• As required, issues permit for approved building permit applications; verifies state/local licenses when applicable; ensures paperwork is complete and filed; ensures information is entered into database; verifies compliance with applicable codes/regulations; and issues administrative use permits, commercial advertising sign permits, certificates of occupancy, and other use permits based on the outcome of review.
• Receives money in payment of permit fees; calculates permit fees; records transactions, issues receipts, and forwards revenues as appropriate; prepares/updates daily administrative report of base fees; reports daily count of permits issued each day and payments collected; processes requests for permit fee refunds; recommends approval or denial of refund requests; and submits reports to appropriate department/individual.
• Schedules inspections, record inspection results, and issues certificate of occupancy. Performs related work as required.
• Receives, listens, and responds tactfully and effectively to citizen complaints, suggestions, and requests for assistance; establishes and maintains good will; possesses exceptional communication and public service skills and the ability to negotiate, exchange ideas, information, and opinions with others.
• Attends training, seminars, conferences, meetings to enhance job knowledge and skills; keeps abreast of federal, state and local case law and new trends in planning.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

MINIMUM TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE

Requires High School graduation; Bachelor’s degree in Planning or related field highly desirable; two to three years of experience in permit processing, general office work, customer service, or a related field in a governmental setting desirable or any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.

Additional Requirements: Ability to deal with public and contractors in a courteous manner and able to defuse intense situations; display excellent interpersonal skills; ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with coworkers, supervisors, and the public; ability to express oneself clearly and concisely, orally and in writing; capability to work in different computer software’s; regular and timely attendance; performance of duties in a safe manner.

The successful candidate should also demonstrate the ability to make decisions using innovation, creativity, and flexibility. An organized mindset and the ability to manage records and information is essential.