Job Abstract

Under direct supervision of the Planning Manager, the Senior Planner performs a variety of planning activities including the review of developmental and land use applications; zoning, site plan, environmental review, and provides technical assistance to the general public. They would assist in the management of development projects and the formation of community development plans and programs; assists in the research and analysis of information and plans and studies regarding development and redevelopment projects and legislation; prepare and present reports on projects community development programs including reports to the City Council, Planning Commission, other public or private agencies and community-based organizations; complete technical studies and demographic information related to the City and perform other duties as assigned.

1. Ensure adherence to department policies, procedure, rues and regulations.
2. Participate in the development and implementation of department goals, objectives, policies, and procedures.
3. Provide technical advice to the assistant planners, other departments, the general public, contractors, and other professionals including explaining City Ordnances, regulations, resolutions and planning and zoning policies.
4. Prepares staff reports and conditions of approval for City Planning Commission and City Council.
5. Advises City Planning Commissioners and City Council on planning matters.
6. Conducts site inspections, including determining if projects are in compliance with laws, regulations and ordinances, makes recommendations on changes.
7. Establishes and maintains a customer service orientation within the department.
8. Reviews cases in manner that ensures compliance with applicable federal, state, and local laws, codes and regulations, including the California Environmental Quality Act (C.E.Q.A) and the National Environmental Protection Act (N.E.P.A)
9. Reviews work of professional planning and engineering consultant retained for the development of plans, specifications, studies and reports.
10. Drafts amendments for zoning and subdivision ordinances.
11. Meets with and advises project applicants and the general public regarding complex applications and processes.
12. Reviews subdivisions, conditional use permits, business licenses and other development applications.
13. Oversees, review and negotiates on behalf of the City for planning case proposals including site design and environmental review.
14. Conducts research and analysis of information and studies involved with planning.
15. Complete technical studies and demographic information related to the City.
16. Analyze, prepare, and present reports on development and environmental programs.
17. Coordinate Design Review Committee and other committees as assigned.
18. Performs other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
· Demonstrate typing skills and operational characteristics of standard office equipment.
· Understand and adhere to City policies, procedures, State and Federal rules and regulations.
· Possess effective interpersonal skills, using tact, patience and courtesy.
· Current Microsoft Office Skills, including Access, Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and Publisher.
· Use sound professional judgment in the application of policy, procedures, and laws in situations arising in the course and scope of employment.
· Plan, schedule, organize and exercise the ability to be self-motivated.
· Ability to write clear, concise and comprehensive reports.
· Communicate effectively, verbally and in writing.
· Understand and work within the scope of authority.
· Relate effectively to people of a variety of cultures, languages and socioeconomic situations.
· Basic working knowledge and background in environmental policy, science and/or business management.
· Strong business and political acumen to work effectively with the public, external trade organizations, agencies, businesses, community members and elected officials.
· Excellent problem solving skills with the ability to proactively identify and support creative and viable solutions.
· Highly motivated with demonstrated facilitation and leadership skills.
· Ability to quickly comprehend and analyze complex issues.
· GIS knowledge preferred.

Education/Training:
Minimum eighteen (18) years of age. Must possess a high school diploma from an accredited high school or G.E.D. equivalent.

A minimum of a Bachelor’s degree with an emphasis in urban or regional planning, business administration or related field.

Experience:
Minimum of six (6) years of full time progressively responsible experience in city or regional planning, community development, zoning administration or closely related field.

Any combination of education and experience sufficient to provide the requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities. One year graduate study in city planning or closely related field can be substituted for one year experience.

License or Certificate:
Must possess a valid California Class C Driver’s License and maintain possession of such license during the course of employment.

Must have an acceptable driving record, be insurable at standard rates by City’s insurance carrier, and maintain such insurability during the course of employment.