Planner, Government, Environmental & Urban Planning

Responsible for reviewing development applications and permits and preparing planning reports for Township of Lower Merion (Township). Work involves reviewing and tracking development plans for completeness and compliance with Township codes, providing information to interested parties regarding land use policy, and making recommendations regarding land use proposals. Reviews subdivision and land development applications, conducts ordinance and zoning reviews and participates in long-range planning efforts.

Ensures compliance with local, state and federal rules and regulations.

Work is performed independently under general supervision with moderate latitude in the use of initiative and independent judgment. Position typically requires processing and interpreting of less clearly defined issues.

Works under the general supervision of the Assistant Director of Planning.

Reviews land development applications and conditional use requests in accordance with Township, county and state codes.

Presents reviews and relevant information to the Planning Commission, ad-hoc committees and the public.

Conducts data searches, reviews existing reports and updates data spreadsheets.

Prepares planning memos, reports and studies related to long-range master plans and housing.

Attends meetings and participates in steering committees as representative of department.

Processes land development escrow return requests and maintains escrow databases.

Publishes data analysis reports, planning policy briefings, code amendments and ordinances.

Coordinates the review and approval process with outside agencies such as County Board of Assessment and County Planning Commission.

Maintains department files for maps, permits, development applications and code amendments.

Assists with preparation of graphics for public meetings and presentations.

Computes areas and dimensions, compiles statistical data, completes forms and prepares reports.

Assists in preparing agendas and minutes for advisory committees.

Upholds strict confidentiality in dealing with sensitive information, including personnel matters, legal documents, financial data, contracts, and other proprietary information.

Responds to inquiries, questions and comments from the public per established standards and protocols; responds to and resolves difficult and sensitive inquiries, issues and complaints.

Attends and participates in professional group meetings; stays current on new trends and best practices.

May be required to attend evening or weekend meetings and events based on organizational responsibilities and requirements.

Performs duties of lower-level classifications, as necessary.

May be assigned to other departments or divisions to perform required duties, as needed.

May provide or coordinate staff training.

High school diploma or GED and seven (7) years of increasingly responsible land use planning experience;

OR associate degree in urban planning or a related field and five (5) years of experience as listed above;

OR bachelor’s degree in urban planning or a related field and three (3) years of experience as listed above;

OR a combination of experience, certification, education and training that demonstrates expertise in the related areas.

Must successfully pass all conditions of employment which may include a pre-employment physical.

Must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license.

American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) certification or related professional certification preferred.

Experience with geospatial analysis tools preferred.

Knowledge of state, county and local codes, ordinances, standards, specifications, policies and procedures pertaining to planning, zoning, land development and land use.

Knowledge of Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning Code (MPC) and…