Planner I- Planning and Development (Civil Service)

City of Dallas

3d • $27 - $33

About The Position

The Planner I performs a wide variety of entry-level professional planning and zoning tasks for the urban development of the City. Departmental Note: Planning and Development – Zoning: Primary responsibilities include technical review and project management of zoning applications including general zoning changes, specific use permits, planned development districts, and public deed restrictions. The zoning review process includes site visits, research, coordinating with other departments and outside agencies, providing information to the public, writing technical reports with a staff recommendation, and presenting cases to the City Plan Commission. Other duties may include assisting with general zoning inquiries and with the intake of zoning applications. While the Planner I position is an entry level role, candidates with prior experience with zoning cases, a basic understanding of the development process, and familiarity with geographic information systems (GIS) are encouraged to apply. Strong research, data analysis, problem-solving, and communication skills—both written and oral—are also highly valued. Eligible candidates will have excellent time management, project management, and conflict management skills. They will also possess a strong commitment to customer service and the ability to explain nuanced planning concepts to laypeople in a way that is accessible and understandable.

Requirements

• Knowledge of City policies and procedures.
• Basic knowledge of the principles, methods, and techniques of urban planning and design.
• Ability to do research in an orderly and timely manner.
• Ability to analyze data, abstract problems, and conceptualize solutions.
• Ability to understand and follow written and verbal guidelines and instructions.
• Communicating effectively verbally and in writing.
• Ability to interact with the public and peers in a positive manner.
• Establishing and maintaining effective working relationships.
• Bachelor's degree (or higher) in a Planning, Urban Studies/Design, Architecture, Public Administration, Sociology, Geography, Engineering, or related field (e.g., Historic Preservation, Architectural History, History, etc.).
• Valid driver's license with good driving record.

Nice To Haves

• prior experience with zoning cases
• a basic understanding of the development process
• familiarity with geographic information systems (GIS)
• Strong research, data analysis, problem-solving, and communication skills—both written and oral
• excellent time management, project management, and conflict management skills
• a strong commitment to customer service and the ability to explain nuanced planning concepts to laypeople in a way that is accessible and understandable.

Responsibilities

• Serves as the main point of contact for people that visit the planning office; explains and interprets policies and procedures related to planning applications; answers questions customers may have about zoning and other planning processes; oversees the submission of applications and creates detailed reports to present to City Planning Commission.
• Compiles and analyzes data for planning purposes in a specialty area and to assist in the formulation of sound planning and design proposals; reviews case applications and route issues to other departments for review; maintains communications with the public and various applicants to ensure effective services.
• Prepares various documents for others to present to departmental staff, citizens, and other interested groups; edits case reports and related power points; reviews material and verifies information with available datasets.
• Processes and ensures the appropriate approvals for applications and other intake forms.
• Meets with citizens and business interest groups to identify problems, goals and objectives, explain programs, and respond to questions.
• Performs any and all other work as needed or assigned.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level