Associate Planner I

City of Ocala, FL • Ocala, FL

345d

About The Position

The Associate Planner position requires entry-level knowledge of the urban planning and land development field and performs professional planning work of moderate technical difficulty. The ideal candidate must be able to manage and prioritize multiple tasks to effectively complete them in a timely manner. The candidate is expected to understand and apply complex local and state regulations and assist in the administration and conveyance to the public. This position identifies and helps implement processes that directly lead to improved efficiencies. This includes training and testing of new processes to meet successful implementation. Position involves extensive public contact. The Associate Planner is under limited supervision and provides direct backup support to Planner I/II, and the Senior Planner. The Associate Planner is expected to exercise considerable independent judgment and initiative with the goal of ensuring a positive customer experience.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Four years experience in administrative duties including three years in customer service.
• Three years of experience working with land use development regulations.
• Must possess a valid Florida Operator Driver's License with an acceptable driving record.

Nice To Haves

• Familiarity with ProjectDox and GovSense preferred.

Responsibilities

• Processes land use, zoning, Planned Development, special exception, variance, and code amendment petitions by accepting the applications, checking for accuracy, completeness, and compliance with the Land Development Regulations and comprehensive plan, creating projects in department software, invoicing proper fees, and assigning project planners based on input from Senior Planner.
• Maintains project schedule and coordinates completion of project related tasks with Senior Planner, GIS Analyst, and Administrative Professional to ensure timely completion of noticing and advertising requirements and staff review.
• Researches and outlines staff comments for zoning, annexation, public hearing, special exception, and variance cases.
• Reviews and prepares staff comments on building permits and site plans according to the Land Development Regulations.
• Researches and prepares new and revised ordinances to the Land Development Regulations.
• Oversees preparation of agendas, packets, and minutes by the Administrative Professional for the Planning and Zoning Commission, Board of Adjustment, and other advisory committees.
• Provides staff support to one or more of the following city boards: City Council, Planning & Zoning Commission, Board of Adjustment, Ocala Historic Preservation Advisory Board, CRA Advisory Boards, or West Ocala Neighborhood Revitalization Council.
• Conducts background research, surveys and interviews on neighborhood issues and prepares related reports.
• Answers general questions related to planning and zoning for the public and other departments in person, by telephone, or by email.
• Uses good judgment in deciding how a customer's issue should be resolved and who needs to be involved with its resolution.
• Reviews permit, license, and site plan applications for compliance with the City's zoning and land development regulations.
• Responds to Freedom of Information Act requests relating to planning or zoning information.
• Performs short-term and long-term special research projects for staff and the public.
• Attends evening and weekend meetings as necessary.
• Prepares visual aids or other special materials for presentations.
• Attends technical meetings within the state to increase knowledge of major program areas.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Industry: Executive, Legislative, and Other General Government Support
• Education Level: High school or GED
• Number of Employees: 501-1,000 employees