DEVELOPMENT SERVICES SPECIALIST

JOB DESCRIPTION

DEVELOPMENT SERVICES SPECIALIST
PLANNING

Human Resources

Newport News, Virginia Department

GENERAL STATEMENT OF RESPONSIBILITIES

Under general supervision, this position performs complex work in current planning, technical and
administrative work in the review and coordination of site, development, and subdivision plans.
Reports to the Assistant Director-Current Planning.

There are two (2) levels of Development Services Specialist distinguished by the type and level of work
performed and the qualifications of the employee.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

Performs analysis and makes recommendations relative to planning principles through the review of
site, development, and subdivision plans to ensure conformance with federal, state and city codes,
ordinances and policies. Researches information relating to site and subdivision development;
interprets codes, ordinances and policies for developers, contractors and citizens; provides technical
assistance and guidance in obtaining plan approvals. Coordinates site and subdivision review activities
with engineering staff, City departments and external agencies. Maintains subdivision and site plan
file documentation.

Reviews detailed bonding agreements, variances, and exceptions within prescribed limits; maintains
and refunds the bonds related to site and subdivision files, land disturbances and right-of-way permits
as necessary. Coordinates site and subdivision files, land disturbance, and right-of-way permits as
necessary. Coordinates site, subdivision agreements and land development agreements for contractors.

Performs other duties as assigned.



PERFORMANCE STANDARD

Employees at all levels are expected to effectively work together to meet the needs of the community
and the organization through work behaviors demonstrating the City’s Values. Employees are also
expected to lead by example and demonstrate the highest level of ethics.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE


Planning-Comprehensive knowledge of philosophies, practices, principles, and techniques o the
municipal planning process as they pertain to development and redevelopment. 

Zoning and Development– Comprehensive Knowledge of the City ordinances, codes and
regulations pertaining to planning and land development. Knowledge of federal and state codes

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related to site and subdivision development and zoning. Knowledge of legal descriptions,
construction drawings and plans.

REQUIRED SKILLS


Interpersonal Relationships/Customer Service – Develops and maintains cooperative and
professional relationships with employees, managers, and representatives from other departments
and organizations. 

Technology- Utilizes a personal computer with word processing, spreadsheet, and related software
to effectively complete a variety of administrative tasks with reasonable speed and accuracy.
Knowledge in permitting software and GIS. 

Critical Thinking – Uses logic and reasoning to understand, analyze, and evaluate complex

situations and research information to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative

solutions, forecasting, conclusions or approaches; anticipates, identifies and evaluates potentially

dangerous, unusual or deviating situations; diffuses emotional situations and exercises appropriate

judgment to establish priorities and take prompt action for problem resolution.

REQUIRED ABILITIES


Communication – Ability to communicate ideas effectively, including the preparation of reports
and logs. Ability to listen and understand directions, information and ideas presented verbally and
in writing. Ability to handle a variety of customer service issues with tact and diplomacy and in a
confidential manner. 

Time Management – Ability to plan and organize daily work routine. Ability to establish priorities
for the completion of work in accordance with sound time-management methodology. 

Mathematics – Ability to perform basic arithmetic and statistical applications. Ability to employ
basic math principles and practices in the analysis and reporting of data.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Development Services Specialist - Requires a Bachelor’s degree in Planning, Landscape Architecture,
Architecture, Civil Engineering, or a related field and 3 - 4 years experience, or an equivalent
combination of education and experience.

Development Services Specialist, Senior - Requires a Bachelor’s degree in Planning, Landscape
Architecture, Civil Engineering or a related field and 5 - 7 years of experience, or an equivalent
combination of education and experience



ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

Requires an acceptable general background check to include a local and state criminal history check.
Requires a valid driver’s license with an acceptable driving record.





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PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS 

Requires the ability to exert light physical effort in sedentary to light work. 

Some lifting, carrying, pushing and/or pulling of objects and materials of light weight (5-10
pounds). 

Tasks may involve extended periods of time at keyboard or work station.

SENSORY REQUIREMENTS 

Some tasks require the ability to perceive and discriminate sounds and visual cues or signals. 

Some tasks require the ability to communicate orally.

ENVIRONMENTAL EXPOSURES

Essential functions are regularly performed without exposure to adverse environmental conditions.

PC# 23604 23606
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