Planner I

JOB SUMMARY

The Planner I supports the Permitting, Planning, and Zoning functions of the Planning & Development Department. This position is responsible for customer service for department related matters, processing and documenting various permit applications, conducting basic plan reviews, and preparing simple zoning cases.  This position also conducts research and analysis for long-range planning.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

Customer Service and Communication

• Advises and confers with architects, builders, attorneys, contractors, engineers, and the general public regarding City development policies, standards, and guidelines
• Provides customer service related to the Planning & Development department processes and current, past, or future projects, both in-person and over the phone
• Collaborates with other City Departments and outside agencies regarding applications
• Manages public participation process for planning and zoning applications; to include conducting legal advertising efforts, mailing notification letters, and sign requirements
• Research, prepare, and fill open records requests

Permitting (Processing and Documenting):

• Processes permit applications; inputs assigned applications into permitting software, assigns plan reviews, and uploads required documentation
• Reviews minor Land Disturbance Permits, Zoning Applications, Sign Permits, Fence Permits, Residential Addition/Renovation Building, and New Single-Family Residential Permits basic applications (i.e., fence permits) and creates code compliance letters according to the timeframe established by the department
• Manages close out process for assigned permits
• Serves as back-up for certain permits including Land Disturbance Permits, Plats, Zoning Related Applications; Sign Permits; Fence Permits and Residential Addition/Renovation Building permits

Planning

• Manages and prepares Pre-Application meetings for Planning and Zoning related applications
• Reviews development proposals and other requests for conformance with appropriate regulations; prepare reports and make recommendations.
• Assesses commercial, industrial, and residential development plans for zoning compliance
• Supports Land Development Manager functions including coordinating land disturbance and subdivision process including bond management system.
• Serves as planning area specialist on topics such as housing, urban design, transportation, sustainability and the environment and real estate, among others.
• Conducts long range planning activities including maintenance of the Comprehensive Plan and supporting Master Planning work.

Plan Reviews

• Manages Pre-Application meetings for Planning and Zoning related applications, this includes pre-review of all applications
• Completes Plan Reviews for signs, residential, and pool permits
• Review development proposals and other requests made to the Planning & Development Department for conformance with appropriate regulations; prepare reports and make recommendations.
• Checks commercial, industrial, and residential development plans for zoning compliance.
• Assists in the preparation of long-range planning studies.

Zoning

• Creates Zoning Verification Letters
• Scans all required documents into the City's Permit Management and Document Management systems
• Completes Business License reviews for compliance with Zoning Regulations.
• Manages and updates all Planning and Zoning related applications and forms, as needed
• Assists with zoning and permitting processes for Business License review and issuance.

Research and Analysis:

• Assists with long range planning projects.
• Conducts research, analysis, and policy documents.
• Conducts research on planning and zoning related matters.
• Gathers and maintains demographic data and other related statistics.
• Participate in the research, analysis, and interpretation of social, economic, population and land use data and trends
• Compiles information and make recommendations on special studies; prepare technical reports.
• Research and draft ordinances for review.
• Attend training sessions, meetings, seminars, workshops, etc. to enhance job knowledge and skills.

Reporting and Record Keeping

• Prepare staff reports and graphic displays.
• Maintains official maps, records, and files related to areas of responsibility
• Maintains Department webpage
• Present cases to the City’s Design Review Board

ADDITIONAL JOB FUNCTIONS

• Uses a variety of computer software programs such as Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, Laserfische, web-based GIS applications, and iWorq.
• Other duties as assigned.

• Bachelor’s degree in urban planning or related field is required.
• Master’s degree in urban planning, Public Administration, or related field is preferred.
• Certification with The American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP), preferred.
• Local government experience is preferred
• Knowledge of Code Enforcement processes and best practices
• Knowledge of Planning and zoning principles
• Business math, including the calculation of areas (square footage), fees, and penalties
• Knowledge of Georgia Open Records Act
• Familiarity with permitting software systems
• Read and interpret building plans, related construction documents and various maps
• Interpret, explain, and apply policies, laws, and procedures
• Perform detailed, technical, and specialized permit support work.
• Organize and prioritize work and follow-up on assignments with a minimum amount of supervision.
• Organize and maintain accurate files and records; draft official memos and/or decision letters 
• Cooperates with others to accomplish common goals; works with employees within and across departments to achieve shared goals; treats others with dignity and respect and maintains a friendly demeanor; values the contributions of others
• Is alert in a high-risk environment; follows detailed procedures and ensures accuracy in documentation and data; carefully monitors gauges, instruments, or processes; concentrates on routine work details; organizes and maintains a system of records.
• Works cooperatively with others, inside and outside the organization, to accomplish objectives to build and maintain mutually beneficial partnerships, leverage information, and achieve results.
• Writes and speaks effectively, using conventions proper to the situation; asks questions to ensure understanding; exercises a professional approach with others using all appropriate tools of communication; uses consideration and tact when offering opinions
• Writes and speaks effectively, using conventions proper to the situation; states own opinions clearly and concisely; demonstrates openness and honesty; listens well during meetings and feedback sessions; explains reasoning behind own opinions; asks others for their opinions and feedback; asks questions to ensure understanding; exercises a professional approach with others using all appropriate tools of communication; uses consideration and tact when offering opinions
• Remains open-minded and changes opinions on the basis of new information; performs a wide variety of tasks and changes focus quickly as demands change; manages transitions from task to task effectively; adapts to varying customer needs
• Able to manage multiple projects; able to determine project urgency in a practical way; uses goals to guide actions; creates detailed action plans; organizes and schedules people and tasks effectively
• Manages own time, priorities, and resources to achieve goals.