City Planner I

City of Altoona•Altoona, IA

2d•$31 - $40

About The Position

Under the general supervision of the Community Development Director; assists in a variety of planning activities including review of site plans, preliminary and final plats, rezonings, conditional use permits, variances, etc. for compliance with city code. This position will provide customer service and assistance to citizens, developers, engineers, architects, attorneys, realtors, appraisers, builders, businesses, consultants and other governmental agencies and officials.

Requirements

Bachelor’s Degree related to Community/Regional/Urban Planning, Architecture, Landscape Architecture, Public Administration or related field.
0-2 years of general work experience in urban planning or similar field.
Ability to translate technical information into a clear and actionable format for citizens and applicants.
Ability to take initiative and work efficiently.
Ability to work independently with intermittent direct supervision.
Excellent written, oral and interpersonal communication and listening skills including, but not limited to: tact, diplomacy and professionalism when dealing with members of the public and staff.
Problem-solving, sound judgment and decision-making abilities.
Ability to read and interpret plats, construction plans, specifications and applicable technical codes and ordinances.
Ability to dimension and scale plan sets to calculate permit cost, building area, various code applications and related information.
Ability to concentrate in a diverse work setting.
Ability to deal with politically sensitive issues and maintain confidentiality.
Proficient with a personal computer using various software programs for word processing, permits, zoning operations and presentation of information.
Ability to perform job functions adhering to safety guidelines and policies set for by the administration and/or supervisor.
Knowledge of GIS and its application to the planning profession.
Knowledge of laws, regulations, and ordinances.
Knowledge of environmental maintenance management practices.
Knowledge of theory, principles, standards, information sources, and professional practices applicable to urban planning, park design, planning and zoning law, and development plan review.
Knowledge of municipal utilities, streets, and storm water as they relate to city planning
Proficient in the use of office equipment, including telephone, photocopier, laser printers, personal computers, etc.
Valid Driver’s license
The successful applicant will be required to complete a background check and pass a medical examination which includes a drug and alcohol screening prior to beginning work.

Nice To Haves

Relevant previous work experience or internship preferred.

Responsibilities

Assists with the processing of applications, reviewing plans and routing reviews to other city departments for development projects including site plans, preliminary & final plats, rezonings, conditional use permits, variances, etc.
Prepares and compiles staff comments and correspondence with applicants including developers, engineers, architects, builders, etc.
Assists in the preparation of agendas, public notices, maps, presentations and staff reports for Board of Adjustment, Planning and Zoning Commission and City Council.
Coordinates and monitors multiple projects at various stages of the development process.
Works to resolve difficult and complex zoning and code compliance issues.
Responds to general public or other inquiries concerning the City’s planning and zoning processes.
Compiles, develops, analyzes and summarizes a variety of data including preparing maps and graphics for visual representation.
Assists other City departments with planning-related services as directed.
Support the administration of zoning and subdivision regulations in accordance with City ordinances and Iowa Code.
Reviews building, sign and other related permit applications for zoning compliance.
Coordinates review and assigns street names and addresses to new development.
Maintains files, reports, plans, maps and other materials pertinent to department functions.
Serve as a liaison between the city and various public agencies, business and civic groups and other organizations in the presentation and discussion of building, housing, zoning and safety related problems, proposals, projects and policies.
Attend regularly scheduled evening meetings.
Interact and assist the public and staff by answering inquiries or explaining procedures relating to city permits, codes, etc. to resolve needs or complaints.
Prepares annual reports for the Census Bureau, Federal Emergency Management Agency, Department of Transportation and Metropolitan Planning Organization, and other governmental entities.
Analyzes and prepares recommendations for ordinance and policy amendments for consideration.
Performs other duties as assigned.