Assistant Planner - Planning & Zoning

Job Opportunities

Reports to: Director of Planning & Zoning

FLSA Classification: Non-Exempt

Employee Group: N/A

Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in Planning, Sustainability and Environment, Architecture, or closely related field.

Minimum Experience: Minimum of one (1) year of planning, zoning, or economic development-related experience.

• AICP Certification preferred.

• Must possess a valid driver’s license.

This position supports urban planning and development by assisting residents and developers, reviewing permits, preparing reports, maintaining zoning data, and coordinating zoning applications. The incumbent may also manage grants, oversee sustainability initiatives, manage public art programs, and more. Works with the Comprehensive Land Use Plan, Unified Development Ordinance, and other long-range planning documents to guide projects and steer the community toward Waukegan's shared vision.

Additional responsibilities include public engagement and facilitating communication with the City Council and the Planning & Zoning Commission.

This is a career progression series opportunity. Employees are eligible for progression through the listed classification series based on attaining the minimum qualifications for each level and meeting performance measures.

The following duties are essential for this position. However, they are not to be construed as exclusive or all–inclusive. To be successful in this position, an individual must be able to perform each duty satisfactorily. Other duties may also be required or assigned.

• Works with the Comprehensive Land Use Plan, Unified Development Ordinance, and other long range planning documents to guide projects and steer the community towards the shared vision for Waukegan laid out in the documents.
• Reviews permits and zoning applications for compliance with City codes and regulations.
• Responds to customer inquiries via phone, email, or in-person regarding permits, zoning requirements, and applications.
• Meets with customers, business owners, and developers to assist with zoning applications and permits.
• Collects, compiles and analyzes data and factual materials in order to prepare studies regarding land use, zoning, and land development requests.
• Interprets zoning and development regulations.
• Assists with drafting assigned sections of written reports and studies, including community plans.
• Assists in updating municipal codes related to planning and development, including the Unified Development Ordinance.
• Assists in the design, layout and construction of maps, charts, drawings, and exhibits.
• Assists with preparation of materials for meetings. Attendance at or participation in these meetings may be necessary, as requested.
• Prepares, maintains, and updates files, databases, maps, and other records in support of planning activities.
• Research opportunities for the City related to economic development and site selection within the City of Waukegan.
• Assists in reviewing site plans, conditional use permits, and other applications.
• Gives presentations to the Planning & Zoning Commission at their monthly evening meetings, presenting projects and staff reports to the Commission and the public.
• Writes, coordinates, and posts public notices in newspapers and mails written notices to stakeholders.
• Attends City Council committee meetings to provide information and answer questions related to planning projects.
• Performs additional duties as assigned to support departmental goals.

• Knowledge of urban planning principles, zoning regulations, and sustainable development practices.
• Proficiency in reviewing permits, zoning applications, and site plans for compliance with City codes and ordinances.
• Strong analytical skills to evaluate land use data, compile studies, and develop reports on planning and zoning matters.
• Ability to assist in updating municipal codes related to zoning, subdivision, signage, and other development regulations.
• Expertise in GIS mapping systems to update and analyze zoning data, create maps, and support planning activities.
• Experience in managing…