Planner I

GENERAL DESCRIPTION

This is an entry level professional position providing planning and zoning research and technical support to the Community Development Department. Responsibilities include regular assignments to be performed independently, preparation of planning and project analysis, involvement in the land development process and management of special projects relating to community development for the Department Director and senior planning staff. Strong customer service skills are necessary for daily interaction with development applicants and the public. Work is performed under the general direction of the Planning Manager and the Community Development Director and requires the exercise of independent judgment and initiative within the framework of regulations. Performance is reviewed through conferences and analysis as well as evaluations.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

• Conducts planning related research, preparation of reports and presentation of materials, field work and preparation, maintenance and update of elements of the comprehensive plan; review of development plans to assure compliance with the Comprehensive Plan and the Land Development Code (LDC). Assists the senior planning staff in the completion of special projects and development review.
• Review building and development permits and license applications.
• Maintains Development Agreements, Socioeconomic Data, Development Review Committee schedules, and Community Development Department databases.
• Work closely with staff from other departments to secure input from all departments to ensure that issues important to the public is disseminated in a timely fashion.
• Represent the city on regional or intergovernmental boards as required.
• Provide assistance to members of the public requesting community development related information.
• Work requires very frequent sitting for extended periods at a workstation utilizing a keyboard in the preparation of reports, letters, memoranda with great attention to detail; meeting with various committees; preparation of planning studies as outlined in the Comprehensive Plan, including but not limited to Upland Habitat protection, Housing, Downtown Redevelopment, and Urban Design.
• Work requires occasional standing, walking, bending, pushing, pulling, reaching overhead and lifting of up to 30 pounds; and minimal dexterity in the use of fingers and limbs in the operation of office equipment for the review of maps, plats and files. This job operates in a professional office environment.
• Performs any other duties or tasks that may be assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES

• Knowledge of zoning codes, comprehensive plans, and planning procedures, urban design, basic architecture; principles and practices of land planning and growth management; ordinances, resolutions; legal descriptions.
• Must be have demonstrated knowledge and education in land use laws that impact land use and private property rights.
• Knowledge of the organization, functions and procedures of City government, including the principles and practices of planning and zoning.
• Knowledge of and ability to use GIS software to prepare maps and data base.
• Ability to use Microsoft computer software such as spreadsheets, data processing, presentation, and other similar tools to communicate planning and zoning analysis and final reports.
• Ability to express oneself clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing and to read planning and construction development plans.
• Strong customer service skills and ability to work with a diverse customer and community interests.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Graduate of a four-year accredited college or university with a degree in Planning or a directly related field required and some general planning experience or internship with progressively increasing responsibilities is preferred.
• Master's degree preferred but not required.
• Must possess a valid State of Florida Driver's License.

EQUIPMENT USED

Computer, calculator, copier, tape recorder and other office equipment as required.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Work requires sitting for extended periods using a word processor; preparing reports, comments, letters, memoranda; meeting with various committees; preparation of planning studies as outlined in the Comprehensive Plan.
• Work requires occasional standing, bending, pushing, pulling, and lifting up to 50 lbs. in reviewing of maps, plats and files.
• Minimal exposure to inclement weather.

POTENTIAL ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS/HAZARDS

Indoor environment, outdoor environment, moisture and/or humidity, dust; and other conditions and hazards related to conducting site inspections on construction sites.