JOB SUMMARY:

Under the supervision of the Director of Planning, the Planner assists with complex development review, special projects, and supports the development Boards and the Director in executing the organizational vision and priorities of the Development Services Team.  Denison's growth requires an innovative, collaborative individual to assist in the technical review of development and redevelopment projects and execute a streamlined, comprehensive review process that supports the vision of the Comprehensive Plan and moves forward development projects and initiatives.  The workload demands quick critical and strategic thinking, ability to manage multiple tasks and changing deadlines and respond and interact with the public with tact and diplomacy.

The Planner also assists the Director of Planning with special projects, including ordinance amendments, area studies, and special research necessary to improve the department. The Planner is expected to embody Denison’s core values of Service, Teamwork, Accountability, Communication, and Integrity.  
 

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:                   

• Reviews rezoning, plat, variance, and other requests.
• Reviews or assists in the review of moderately difficult development proposals and site plans for conformance with codes, plans, and regulations.
• Interacts with residents, developers, and the general public with the administration of the development review process.
• Prepares and processes applications for the Planning & Zoning Commission, Zoning Board of Adjustments & Appeals, and City Council meetings which includes drafting detailed staff reports and Power point presentations. 
• Assists the public with zoning and mapping questions. 
• Assists field personnel, Public Works Department and Building Department with information pertaining to streets, subdivisions and property ownership.
• Drafts/Designs map updates of new subdivisions, streets, city limits, annexations and zone changes.
• Collects a variety of statistical data and prepare reports and maps on topics such as census information, land use, tax base data, and occupancy rates.
• Designs graphics, charts and tables for reports and projects.
• Maintains accurate files and records for the Department.
• Prepares and maintains meeting minutes, schedules meetings, and public hearing notices and County filing as required.
• Conducts site visits as required.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

QUALIFICATIONS, EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING: • Must have Bachelor’s Degree in urban planning or a related field. A Master’s Degree is preferred • AICP Candidate or AICP Certification is preferred • Minimum one year of experience in urban planning preferred • Excellent oral communication and interpersonal skills to explain rules and procedures clearly to the public • Creative problem-solving skills to gather relevant information to solve vaguely defined practical problems • Must have valid driver license • Must have driving record sufficient for insurance coverage KNOWLEDGE OF: • Knowledge of planning and zoning regulations (state and federal) and best practices • Knowledge of the principles and practices of planning • Knowledge of principles and practices of research and data collection • Statistical, algebraic, or geometric knowledge and ability to apply such knowledge in practical situations • Knowledge of computer hardware and software programs, which include Microsoft Office, Internet applications, CivicClerk or Municode, Laserfiche and GIS • Knowledge of state and federal regulations as they relate to records retention, open meetings, etc. • Knowledge of operation of typical office equipment, including printers, smartboards, projectors, etc. ABILITY TO: • Ability to review plans and apply provisions of the ordinances and codes to determine compliance with such regulations and to apply regulations to field conditions • Ability to create graphic designs, development strategies, and render site plans via sketches and/or computer graphics is highly desirable. • Ability to work on several projects or issues simultaneously with constant interruptions • Ability to work independently or in a team environment as needed • Ability to attend to details while keeping big-picture goals in mind • Ability to interact with citizens, local business people, contractors, and city employees to obtain, plan, and coordinate zoning information and public works issues necessary to determine an appropriate course of action • Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing with other employees and the general public and remain calm under pressure with often pressing deadlines and timelines • Ability to provide responsive customer service and maintain a positive and professional image with the development community Ability to maintain consistent attendance WORKING CONDITIONS: • Long periods of sitting • Intermittent periods of standing and walking • Ability to lift, carry, push and pull up to 25 pounds • Constant talking, hearing, concentrating, judgment and writing ability • Must be able to attend evening meetings that may go long into the night, availability to work weekends and odd hours when needed.