Senior Landscape Planner

Job Title

Professional landscape architecture, arboricultural, and development compliance work performed with considerable independence.

Essential duties and responsibilities include reviewing and analyzing development, landscape, tree disposition, vegetation removal, and related plans for compliance with City Code and related standards; conducting field inspections to verify compliance with approved plans and applicable standards; providing technical guidance to applicants, design professionals, and the public; preparing and presenting written determinations, technical reports, and recommendations on landscaping and development compliance matters;

coordinating with the Code Compliance Division on development compliance matters; performing professional assessments involving tree health, species appropriateness, canopy management, and related landscape compliance issues; leading community outreach, preparing handouts and guidelines related to landscaping, irrigation, tree care, and water conservation; leading the planning, coordination, and implementation of City beautification and landscape enhancement projects; utilizing GIS and other mapping programs for project research and review;

collecting and analyzing data for development related reports and studies conducted by the Development and Neighborhood Services Department; and assisting in the periodic review and update of the City's Comprehensive Plan, Zoning Code, and other landscaping-related regulations.

Knowledge of landscape architecture and arboriculture principles, practices, and standards, including Florida-friendly landscaping, irrigation, tree preservation, and canopy management; applicable local, state, and federal laws, ordinances, regulations, codes, and policies pertaining to landscaping, tree protection, environmental review, and development compliance; methods for drafting reports, regulations, policies, and ordinance texts; and computer software including Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), drafting, and graphic presentation techniques.

Ability to communicate effectively in written, oral, and graphic form; interpret and apply complex regulations, construction drawings, site plans, signage plans, landscape/tree preservation plans, and convey City ordinances and regulations to design professionals as well as the general public; provide professional opinions and technical evaluations on landscape and arboricultural issues consistent with industry standards; plan, prioritize, manage, track and meet deadlines for multiple projects with varying completion dates and varying complexity;

develop and implement policies and procedures; work independently on complex assignments; coordinate and provide oversight for tasks assigned to administrative and planning staff as directed by the Department Director or designee; maintain courteous demeanor with high standards for professional and ethical conduct; establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers, public agencies, vendors and the general public; work nights to attend City Council or other agencies and group meetings;

follow safety rules and regulations of the Department and the City; and support the Department's and City's Mission, Values and Goals.

Bachelor's Degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in Landscape Architecture, Horticulture/Arboriculture, Urban Forestry, Environmental Design, Planning, or closely related field. Master's degree or completion of advanced level coursework in Landscape Architecture or Horticulture/Arboriculture or related field is preferred. Three (3) years progressively responsible professional experience in landscape architecture, horticulture/arboriculture, planning/development review, or any equivalent combination of training, education and experience to meet the minimum requirements.

Must possess and maintain certification as a Landscape Inspector, ISA Certified Arborist, or licensure as a Landscape Architect in Florida, or ability to obtain within six (6) months of employment and maintain active status. Must possess and maintain a valid Florida Driver's License.