Planning Technician

Planning Technician

Under basic supervision, provides technical planning support for the Planning Department (PSD) staff; reviews building plans to verify compliance with City standards and state and federal regulations.

Essential duties and responsibilities may include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Performs a variety of basic technical plan review services, reviews standard building plans and permit applications for compliance with state and federal regulations, and City and county codes, policies, and procedures.
• Creates and updates planning case files and computer records; develops Geographic Information System (GIS) maps for case files and zone updates.
• Provides customer services; responds to requests for information; updates, retrieves and releases information according to procedures.
• Answers inquiries and assists citizens, developers, and other agencies with planning, zoning and sign permit review issues, and other City standards and regulations; provides information within scope of authority and training.
• Processes documents and maintains planning records; updates a variety of electronic and paper files, records, applications, reports, and technical documents; prepares summary information and case reports.
• Supports the departmental operations with 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.

Minimum Qualifications:

Education, Training and Experience Guidelines :

• High School Diploma or GED required.

Knowledge of:

• Basic principles of land use, planning, zoning, and application permitting.
• City land use and development regulations, and zoning and building codes.
• Computer record keeping and file maintenance principles and procedures.

Skill in:

• Learning to understand and interpret land use and zoning enforcement regulations.
• Learning to check designs, details, estimates, plans, and specifications of planning projects.
• Maintaining accurate and interrelated technical records.
• Establishing and maintaining cooperative working relationships with co-workers.
• Operating a personal computer utilizing a variety of business and specialized software, including GIS, and basic typing skills.
• Communicating effectively verbally and in writing.

License and certification requirements: A valid Texas State Driver's License is required.

Physical demands and working environment:
Work is performed in a standard office environment.