Planning & Zoning Permit Technician

City of Lockport•Lockport, IL

About The Position

The City of Lockport is seeking a full-time Building and Zoning Permit Technician in its Community & Economic Development Department. Under the general supervision of the Community & Economic Development Director, the position performs complex administrative work, provides clerical and planning support to the Director and City Planner, and completes other departmental work as required. The work is primarily independent and calls for strong communication, self-motivation, and related skills. The position is full-time, 40 hours per week, and non-exempt. The starting salary range is $54,000–$60,000, depending on qualifications. The technician supports planning, development, and zoning activities; handles public inquiries; assists with applications, permits, notices, agendas, and fees; maintains department records and data; and provides customer service to residents and other members of the public. The role also cross-trains with and supports Building Permit Technicians and takes on special projects as needed.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED equivalent.
Ability to perform the essential duties satisfactorily.
Effective oral and written communication with residents, developers, and consultants.
Ability to multitask across projects and priorities.
Ability to work independently and as a team member.
Ability to work under pressure with interruptions and challenging deadlines.
Ability to deal effectively with the public and maintain effective working relationships.
Ability to handle difficult people tactfully and provide customer service to resolve conflicts.
Ability to organize and prioritize work assignments and maintain attention to detail while coordinating several activities despite interruptions.
Ability to take responsibility and accountability for completing work.
Ability to maintain punctuality, attendance, and confidentiality.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in planning or a related field.
At least three years of administrative and customer service experience in a municipal environment, preferably in a Community Development or Building Department.
Knowledge of or experience with BS&A software platforms.

Responsibilities

Provide planning and administrative support to the Department Director, City Planner, and other departmental staff.
Receive telephone calls and emails, respond to questions about procedures, regulations, operations, and services, and direct inquiries to other departments when appropriate.
Assist the City Planner with planning, development, zoning, planning submittals, and sign permits.
Help prepare Plan & Zoning Commission agendas and packets, and public hearing notices, including contacts, mailings, newspaper notices, and signs.
Assist with development application submittals and process application fees.
Organize and maintain planning department files.
Respond to simple zoning inquiries.
Facilitate the City’s Façade and Code Compliance grant submittals.
Coordinate addressing assignments for new projects.
Track department data from BS&A for monthly and annual reports to the Director.
Review fence, deck, pool, and other permits as needed for zoning compliance.
Attend development pre-application meetings and take notes.
Provide customer service at the front counter and by telephone or email, explaining applications, processes, City Code, and related matters.
Cross-train with and support Building Permit Technicians as needed.
Work on special projects for the City Planner and Department Director as needed.