Planner II

Under direction of the Planning Manager and other Planning leadership, this position performs advanced professional planning work with a strong emphasis on commercial development. The Planner reviews land disturbance permit (LDP) plans and commercial building plans for compliance with local zoning codes, development standards, and subdivision regulations by reviewing development applications and conducting detailed site and plan evaluations. The role also includes field work and regular interaction with the public, development professionals, and other departments and staff.

• Conducts detailed reviews of commercial development plans, site plans, and land disturbance permit (LDP) applications to ensure compliance with zoning regulations, design standards, environmental constraints, and applicable ordinances.
• Reviews residential and accessory building permits, evaluating site conditions, setbacks, buffers, and overlay requirements.
• Performs site visits and field inspections as part of the development review process to assess on-the-ground conditions and verify plan accuracy.
• Reviews and processes applications for rezoning, variance, conditional use, and special use permits, as well as drafts staff reports, legal ads, and public hearing materials.
• Researches and interprets zoning codes, subdivision regulations, and land use policies in response to internal reviews and public inquiries.
• Drafts annexation reports, zoning verification letters, and technical memoranda for internal and external stakeholders.
• Provides daily front counter and phone support to assist the public with zoning questions, development feasibility, and permitting procedures.
• Meets with property owners, developers, engineers, and other stakeholders to explain applicable development regulations and guide them through the review and permitting process.
• Provides staff support to the Planning Commission, preparing meeting agendas, staff reports, presentations, and responding to commissioner inquiries.
• Maintains accurate records of development activity and ensures timely processing of all applications and reviews.
• Provide support for green space initiatives including identifying land for green space designation and updating the county tree ordinance.
• Regular and predictable attendance is required.
• Performs other related duties as required.

Bachelor’s degree in Planning, Landscape Architecture, Engineering or related field with two year relevant experience.

Any equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential duties of the jobs such as those listed above.

• American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) certification, or ability to obtain the certification within 1 year
• Valid Class I Driver's license and a satisfactory Motor Vehicle Record (MVR).

• Knowledge of the principles and practices of urban and regional planning.
• Knowledge of applicable laws, ordinances, policies, standards, and regulations pertaining to the specific duties and responsibilities of the position.
• Knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, Access, and PowerPoint.
• Knowledge of Geographical Information Systems (GIS).
• Ability to compile, organize, prepare, and maintain an assortment of records, reports, and information in an effective manner and according to departmental and/or governmental regulations.
• Ability to effectively communicate and interact with supervisors, other employees, government officials, and the public.
• Ability to assemble information, research and analyze related topics, draw conclusions, and create written reports and documents that communicate in a concise, clear, and effective manner.
• Ability to use independent judgment in routine situations.
• Ability to plan, organize, and/or prioritize daily or long range assignments and work activities.
• Ability to prepare and deliver public presentations and to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
• Ability to deal courteously and diplomatically with the general public.
• Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.

Physical Ability:
Essential functions of this position continuously require the ability to remain in a stationary position (sitting or standing); operate a computer and other office machinery, such as a calculator, copier, and printer. Incumbents must continuously be able to think analytically; handle stress and emotion, concentrate on tasks, remember names and other details; examine and observe details; make decisions, and adjust to change.

Incumbents must also continuously direct others; meet deadlines; stay organized; use math/calculations and use a keyboard/type.

Essential Functions frequently require the ability to move about inside the office; and move/transport items up to 10lbs.

Essential functions occasionally require the ability to bend body downward and forward by bending spine and…