Associate Planner - Zoning

Job Summary

Performs a variety of professional duties in the field of planning with emphasis on zoning regulation, comprehensive planning, subdivision of land and the physical development of the county. Manages land use applications relating to the physical development of Scott County. Interprets ordinances and provides assistance to landowners, developers, and the public related to growth management, development, and various planning and zoning projects and issues. Provides guidance to others as needed on planning related issues.

Job Description

ESSENTIAL DUTIES

• Provides code and ordinance interpretations, planning and zoning information and assistance to developers, landowners, engineers, attorneys, architects, real estate agents, appraisers, and the public. 

• Provides assistance to customers in the preparation of petitions for zoning changes, variances, plats, and conditional use permits; explains pertinent regulations and laws. 

• Reviews and analyzes proposed land use developments occurring within the county; prepares findings of fact and staff reports for Planning Commission and Board of Adjustment meetings. 

• Assists in the development and updating of the Zoning and Subdivision Ordinances, Comprehensive Plan, and other guides to land use and development; develops recommendations for amendments to county plans and ordinances. 

• Performs field investigations to ensure proposed planning applications are consistent with county zoning and subdivision standards, state laws, and county policies; monitors the status of developer and applicant compliance of approved permits through review of documents and site inspections, and initiates enforcement. 

• Prepares maps and other graphic materials using ArcGIS. 

• Reviews and approves various permits and conveyance of deeds for compliance with zoning and land use regulations. 

• Provides technical assistance and work direction as needed. 

• Performs a variety of research duties on matters related to planning and zoning. 

• Attends meetings and makes presentations on behalf of the department and division; leads project review of various agenda items at bi-monthly Development Review Team (DRT) Meetings. 

• Coordinates review of development projects from various county departments and other governmental agencies. 

• Documents preventative enforcement for nuisance complaints and zoning violations by observation while out in the field; accepts information from others relating to code compliance for the county. 

• Participates in the building permit process, including the review and approval of site plans and building plans for conformance with the County Zoning Ordinance. 

• Works the hours and/or shifts assigned and begins and ends work on time. 

• Performs other related duties as required or assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Requires equivalency of a Bachelor's Degree (graduate degree preferred) in Urban Planning or directly related field and one year of related experience. The incumbent shall provide a valid driver's license and a reliable means of transportation for the performance of work responsibilities.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATION(S)

Training or experience in ArcGIS is highly desirable.

SUPERVISORY CONTROLS
The employee is under general guidance and direction from Zoning Administrator. Work is performed according to established guidelines and general instructions. The employee uses independent judgment in setting priorities and in choice of procedures to follow. Work is periodically checked for conformance with established policies and requirements.

CORE COMPETENCIES AND ABILITIES
Customer Service - Delivers government services in a respectful, responsive, and solution-oriented manner.

Communication - Is always clear about what we're doing and why we're doing it.

Collaboration - Works with partners – communities, schools, faith groups, private business, and non-profit agencies – to see that services are not duplicated but rather are complimentary, aligned, and provided by the partners who can deliver the service most effectively.

Stewardship - Works proactively to make investments, guided by resident input, which will transform lives, communities, and government.

Empowerment - Works with individuals and families to affirm strengths, develop skills, restore hope, and promote self-reliance.

Resiliency - Fosters public preparedness and responds when families and communities face health and safety emergencies.

Innovation - Takes informed risks to deliver services more effectively and learns from successes and failures.

Knowledge – Knowledge of the county, its topography, political structure and organization, policies, practices, and services.

Knowledge of the laws, ordinances, and regulations governing planning and zoning functions. Working knowledge of planning data management software.

Abilities – Ability in all phases of planning, including regional planning, comprehensive planning, and zoning and subdivision ordinance administration.

Ability to use various software packages including word processing, CityView (Planning permit management software), Microsoft Sharepoint, Excel spreadsheets, and a working knowledge of ArcView Geographic Information Systems.

Ability to understand surveying, engineering, and design standards and be able to interpret technical information.

Ability to exercise imagination, initiative, and problem-solving capability in a variety of planning and zoning situations.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees, public officials, other agencies, developers, contractors and the public.

Ability to work independently without close supervision.

Ability to interpret and enforce laws and ordinances related to land use and developments.

Ability to write technical and concise reports.

Ability to speak, present, and interact in public arenas with composure, professionalism, and discretion.

Ability to use MS Office software for the performance of essential duties.

Ability to use appropriate discretion in dealing with matters of a confidential nature.

WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS
Typical characteristics of the regular, ongoing work environment of this position requires field work, typically in a construction oriented setting; and inside work, typically in an office setting. One may be exposed to construction site hazards such as falling debris, moving equipment, chemical/dust exposure, treacherous surfaces, etc. when traversing inspection sites.

Physical activities include sedentary to light work: Reaching, sitting, standing, walking, pushing, lifting, pulling, fingering, grasping, feeling, stooping, talking, hearing, seeing, and repetitive motions. Lifts and/or navigates up to 35 pounds on a routine basis in handling files and equipment necessary for performing the essential duties of the job.

SELECTION PROCESS

Selection for this position will be based on a minimum qualifications screening and rating of training and experience. Top candidates will be forwarded to hiring manager or supervisor for consideration for interview and/or additional assessments. Final selection will include a background check and approval by the County Board.