Assistant Planner

Job Title

Under direct or general supervision, performs a variety of professional and technical routine to complex activities in the field of current and advance planning, including review of development and land use applications, zoning, site plan and environmental review; may serve as project manager for development applications; completes technical assessments, prepares written project analyses and provides professional advice and assistance to the public on planning, community development, zoning, permits and environmental review;

assists with and completes preparation of City Ordinances; and performs related work as required.

The ideal candidate has knowledge of land use planning laws and practices, development and zoning administration, and California local government and coastal planning. Knowledge of site planning and architectural design principles, and the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) are required. Has the ability to conduct research projects, evaluate alternatives, make sound recommendations, and prepare effective technical staff reports, interpret planning and zoning programs to the general public, and prepare clear and concise reports and other written materials.

The ability to effectively interact with the public in a positive and helpful manner and to handle multiple projects while working comfortably in a fast-paced team environment are critical. Skill in Microsoft programs is required; optional skills include Arc View (GIS), Adobe Acrobat, InDesign, Photoshop and/or Google SketchUP.

Management reserves the right to add, modify, change, or rescind the work assignments of different positions and to make reasonable accommodations so that qualified employees can perform the essential functions of the job.

• Reviews commercial, industrial, and residential development proposals, plans, and applications for conformance with City policies and ordinances, the General Plan, and State and Federal laws.
• Confers with and provides information to property owners, contractors, developers, engineers, architects, and the public regarding conformance to standards, plans, specifications, and codes; explains codes, requirements, and procedures and evaluates alternatives.
• Conducts site visits to assess property conditions and/or compliance with current City zoning codes and regulations; identifies corrective actions to be taken by owners; conducts follow-up inspections and rechecks as required.
• Serves as project manager for routine application projects, including analyzing and evaluating site and architectural plans, performing technical review, and making recommendations, ensuring plans and applications receive appropriate signatures, coordinating in-house review with contractors, administering contracts, and giving approval for payment on projects.
• Receives and processes permit applications; reviews applications for completeness and conformity to policies and procedures; calculates appropriate permit fees and processes payments.
• Compiles information for a variety of studies and reports; researches, analyzes, and interprets social, economic, population and land use data and trends; develops recommendations and prepares written reports on various planning matters and elements of the City's General Plan.
• Assists with the revision, implementation, and administration of the City's General Plan; assists in preparing draft ordinances, resolutions, and agenda items for council approval.
• Prepares staff reports and various technical and informational reports; prepares presentations and presents to City Council, boards, commissions, committees, various groups, and other jurisdictions interested in or affected by City planning and development.
• Participates in coordinating City planning and development related activities with other City departments and outside agencies.
• Maintains accurate records and files.
• Observes and complies with all City and mandated safety rules, regulations, and protocols.
• Performs related duties as required.

Education and Experience:

Any combination of training and experience that would provide the required knowledge, skills and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required qualifications would be:

Education:

Equivalent to a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in urban planning, community development, business or public administration or a related field.

Experience:

One (1) year of professional experience in planning, zoning, and related community development activities.

Licenses and

Certifications:

• Possession of a valid California Driver's License and a satisfactory driving record to be maintained throughout employment.