Comprehensive Planner I
An employee in this position is responsible for assisting in the formulation and implementation of the City’s Comprehensive Plan, providing staff support to the Planning & Zoning Commission, Historic District Commission, and Tree Commission, monitoring indicators that provide objective measures of growth and development, and working with senior staff to formulate policy. Starting salary for this full-time, 40 hour is $56,863.21/annually, depending on experience and qualifications. Benefits include health, dental, vision, life insurance and pension plan. To apply, go to WestminsterMD.gov/jobs. Questions? Call 410-848-5236. This position will remain open until filled. EOE
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS
- Performs qualitative reviews on development proposals with regard to concept planning, subdivisions, final plans, and various permits by utilizing City zoning code, sign code, landscape manual, and design guidelines.
- Conducts studies and assists in the preparation of plans, reports, recommendations, and correspondence on planning, zoning, development proposals, economic development, zoning amendment petitions, annexation petitions, demographic matters, and environmental issues.
- Participates in the drafting and review of amendments to the City Zoning Code.
- Designs and coordinates planning processes for small areas of the City.
- Prepares maps and graphics as required.
- Manages and maintains computerized development data bases and the development tracking system.
- Prepares departmental reports and recommendations for consideration by the City’s elected and appointed Boards and Commissions, as directed.
- Provides technical assistance to citizens, public and private sector representatives, and members of the City’s appointed boards and commissions, with respect to land development procedures, zoning requirements, economic development, demographic data, and other information as directed.
- Provides technical assistance to citizens, developers, attorneys, City staff, and elected officials related to the zoning code and other sections of the Charter and Code of the City and applicable Maryland Law.
- Keeps supervisor informed of all relevant issues and makes appropriate recommendations.
- Keeps informed on professional planning practices by participating in professional workshops, educational programs, and other professional development opportunities.
- Cultivates and maintains positive relationships with City staff and the public.
- Works in a constant state of alertness and in a safe manner.
- Performs other duties as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS
Education and Experience:
- Bachelor’s Degree in a related field;
- Three (3) years of related experience; or
- Equivalent combination of education, training and related experience.
Licenses or Certifications:
- Possession of a valid driver’s license.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
- Knowledge of planning and zoning, demographics, public administration, historic preservation, architecture, and Geographic Information Systems.
- Ability to act as a representative of the City to the public.
- Ability to read, analyze, and accurately interpret plans, surveys, and proposal information.
- Ability to prepare and maintain accurate records.
- Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with other staff and especially the public, successfully communicate with other staff members and members of the public, including preparing for and making public presentations, and work as a team.
- Ability to respond properly in emergency situations and complete assignments under pressure.
- Ability to keep relevant parties informed of major issues and recommend changes as appropriate.
- Ability to operate relevant computer systems, including hardware and software, and office machines.
- Ability to read, write, perform basic math skills, operate standard office equipment, and to understand verbal and non-verbal instructions.
- Ability to maintain a pleasant and productive working atmosphere.
- Knowledge of the City’s policies and procedures.
- Ability to keep all relevant parties informed of major issues and recommend changes as appropriate.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
The work is sedentary work which requires exerting up to 10 pounds of force occasionally and/or negligible amount of force frequently or constantly to lift, carry, push, pull, or otherwise move objects. Additionally, the following physical abilities are required: fingering, handling, hearing, kneeling, lifting, mental acuity, reaching, speaking, standing, talking, visual acuity, and walking.
WORK ENVIRONMENT
The work involves everyday risks or discomforts which require normal safety precautions typical of such places as offices or meeting and training rooms, e.g., use of safe work place practices with office equipment, avoidance of trips and falls, observance of fire and building safety regulations, and observance of traffic signals when driving.