Planner, Government, Environmental​/ Urban Planning

Department: Planning Reports to: Director of Development

Under basic supervision, performs work of technical difficulty in professional municipal planning for the Planning Services Department (PSD); reviews planning project proposals and verifies that project plans comply with state and federal regulations, City Comprehensive Plan, policies, and procedures.

• Provides technical planning services to achieve structured and organized growth and development in the City; reviews development plan proposals and verifies compliance with state and federal regulations, and City codes, policies, and procedures.
• Prepares planning project evaluations, recommendations, and staff reports for the Planning and Zoning Commission and Zoning Board of Adjustment.
• Reviews and evaluates residential development plans, proposals, plats, site plans, planning and zoning changes, variance requests, and technical documents; verifies compliance with regional standards and regulatory requirements.
• Answers inquiries and assists citizens, developers, and other agencies with planning, zoning, and permit review issues, and other City standards and regulations; provides information and recommendations within scope of authority.
• Conducts field studies and surveys to collect original research data for PSD projects, and compiles data.
• Coordinates issues with other departments, community groups and regional agencies; interprets and explains City codes, policies, procedures, rules, and regulations.
• Supports the departmental operations regular and timely attendance.
• Supports the relationship between the City of Odessa and the general public by demonstrating courteous and cooperative behavior when interacting with visitors and City staff; maintains confidentiality of work-related issues and City information; performs other duties as required or assigned.

Education, Training, and Experience Guidelines: A bachelor’s degree in urban planning, engineering, or a related field is required. Paid experience in urban planning projects is preferred. A different combination of experience and education may be considered at the discretion of the hiring manager.

• State and federal regulations governing planning, zoning, municipal services, and urban development.
• Principles, practices, and procedures of urban planning, community development, land use, and zoning.
• City land use and development regulations, and zoning and building codes.
• Principles of Information Technology, including ESRI Geographic Information Systems.
• Local community issues and regional community resources available to citizens.

• Researching and evaluating community planning projects.
• Interpreting and applying federal and state rules and regulations, and City policies and procedures.
• Checking designs, details, estimates, plans, and specifications of development plans.
• Establishing and maintaining cooperative working relationships with City employees, elected officials, regional community development agencies, advocate groups, and the general public.
• Operating a personal computer utilizing a variety of business and specialized software.
• Communicating effectively verbally and in writing.

A valid Texas State Driver's License is required.

Work is performed in a standard office environment.

Salary: $25.84 per hour.