Planning Technician

Job Description

Job Summary:

This employee will assist with research and data collection for a variety of projects, including land use analysis; zoning ordinance development, corridor and small area plans, as well as communications and public engagement. This position provides an excellent opportunity to obtain paid, entry level planning experience with a fast-paced working environment in the Planning Division. Employee will be expected to work independently with some supervision.

Essential Job Functions:

• Provides support for most administrative tasks needed to support Planning staff, the Planning and Zoning Board, the Board of Adjustment, and other approving boards.
• Creates and maintains tracking tools and related documentation.
• Maintains accurate records, databases, maps, and files related to planning activities using systems such as Laserfiche, Naviline and other departmental software.
• Conducts internal and external research on delegated projects and assignments.
• Assists with coordinating planning activities involving Planning staff, private consultants, contractors, and other city departments.
• Supports updates to zoning ordinances, comprehensive plans, and other planning documents.
• Provides customer service in a fast-paced environment, including high-volume public inquiries at the front counter, over the phone, and via email; assists the public, developers, and staff with questions related to zoning codes, land use regulations, application procedures, and development processes.
• Reviews and processes development applications, permits, and zoning requests for completeness and compliance.
• Communicates effectively with staff, other governmental representatives, and the public; interacts tactfully and courteously with the public and maintains composure in difficult and/or stressful situations.
• Performs related duties as required.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.
• Skill in the use of a variety of computer programs, including Microsoft Office and various office equipment. Knowledge of ESRI ArcGIS Pro and ArcGIS Online is a plus.
• Demonstrated problem solving skills. Must be able to work independently and carry out assignments to completion with minimum instruction.
• Should work well with other personnel and assist the public cooperatively and courteously.
• Maintains a positive attitude and strong work ethic with a desire to learn. Excellent customer service skills required.
• Ability to conduct research, analysis, and develop reports, manuals, and/or presentations based on findings.
• Must exercise a high degree of confidentiality and integrity.

Education and Experience:

Bachelor's degree in public administration, Planning, Urban Geography or related field with one (1) year or more of office administration experience. Special

Qualifications:

For positions requiring the operation of City vehicles, must possess a valid current Florida Driver's License, or be able to acquire one within 45 days of hire.

Physical Demands:
The work is generally light and may require exerting up to 20 pounds of force occasionally, and or/up to 10 pounds of force frequently to move objects. Additionally, the following physical abilities are required:

• Dexterity:
  Primarily with fingers, as in picking, pinching, or typing.
• Handling:
  Picking, holding, or otherwise working, primarily with the whole hand.
• Mental Acuity:
  Ability to make rational decisions.
• Reaching:
  Ability to extend hand(s) and arm(s) in any direction.
• Repetitive Motion:
  Substantial movements (motions) of the wrist, hands, and/or fingers.
• Speaking:
  Ability to communicate clearly, accurately and concisely through speech.
• Visual Acuity:
  Ability to perform activities such as: preparing and analyzing data and figures; transcribing; viewing a computer terminal; and/or extensive reading.
• Hearing:
  Ability to hear and understand at normal speaking levels with or without correction.
• Walking:
  Moving about on foot to accomplish tasks, as in an office environment.