Associate Planner - Zoning Compliance

City of Charlotte•Charlotte, NC

2d•$28 - $35

About The Position

The Land Development Division of the Planning, Design, & Development Department is seeking an entry level Associate Planner who will conduct various zoning reviews of attached residential dwelling types including duplex through quadraplex dwellings and small multi-family dwellings. This position assists customers that come into the Development Center lobby and provides customer support by phone and email. The Associate Planner will analyze different development proposals and inform the customer what review process is necessary. Work involves reviews in both City and County permitting software systems and determining zoning compliance with the Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) and Legacy Zoning Ordinance. Candidates must have the ability to participate in a team environment and perform reviews and duties within required timeframes.

Requirements

Excellent communication and customer service skills (such as the ability to effectively communicate graphically, verbally, and in writing).
Basic knowledge of site design and architectural principles and practices.
Knowledge of planning and land development principles and practices related to regulatory services.
Ability to comprehend technical ordinance and legal requirements related to zoning matters and convey such information in an easy-to-understand fashion.
Analytical skills applicable to planning and regulatory projects and initiatives.
Effective time management (maintaining project review schedules, managing multiple projects, attending scheduled meetings).
Ability to work collaboratively in multidisciplinary teams to achieve positive impacts on the community.
Ability to perform effectively and efficiently with a moderate level of supervision.
Ability to use computer effectively & utilize software programs designed to assist in performing daily tasks.
Ability to obtain & maintain City’s driving permit.
Four-Year degree in Planning, Landscape Architecture, Architecture, Geography, or related degree.

Nice To Haves

AICP, CZO, or other certifications desirable but not required.
At least two years or more of relevant planning & zoning experience preferred.
Related 4-year degree can substitute for experience.

Responsibilities

Comprehend technical code regulations and problem solve complicated planning and zoning related matters.
Provide detailed zoning review comments on permits, and multi-family reviews.
Explain processes necessary for customers to develop various project types.
Manage multiple permit submittals at a time, maintaining assigned review deadlines in City and County review systems.
Work in partnership with design professionals, attorneys, developers, homeowners, and the public to address zoning review comments, zoning related regulations, issues, questions, and concerns, with the goal of achieving compliance with zoning regulations.
Coordinate frequently with other City Planning and Land Development staff on permit submittals.
Provide excellent and efficient customer service to walk-in customers in the Development Center lobby, and through phone calls, e-mails, virtual and in-office meetings, and appointments.
Engage and participate in meetings with Zoning staff, Land Development staff, Planning, Design, & Development staff, and other City departments and legislative bodies.
Respond to Emerald/311 inquiries.
Release & placement of holds in City and County systems.
Process, coordinate, prepare, and issue permit plan review status correspondence.
Track frequently asked questions and common issues.
Utilize tools including review checklists, manuals, handouts, brochures, and training materials to ensure consistency in zoning review.
Verify zoning regulations as they apply to specific properties and explain regulations to customers with UDO references.
Assist customers with Accela and other software systems.
Other duties as assigned.