Planner I

Effingham County Board of Commissioners • Springfield, GA

4d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Planner I is a professional-level planning position emphasizing core planning functions such as land use review, zoning analysis, ordinance development, and public engagement. It is designed for a candidate with foundational planning experience ready to grow professionally and take on moderate project coordination duties in a government setting. The position supports daily operations and long-range initiatives, focusing on delivering responsive, equitable, and regulation-compliant development services.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Urban Planning, Public Policy, Architecture, Geography, or a related field.
• At least one (1) year of planning experience; internships or part-time planning work may be considered.
• Basic understanding of zoning, subdivision regulations, and land development review.
• Familiarity with Microsoft Office and GIS platforms.
• Strong written and oral communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects with attention to detail and deadlines.
• Public-facing customer service orientation.

Nice To Haves

• Two (2) years or more of professional planning experience in a local government setting.
• Exposure to regulatory permitting, ordinance writing, or long-range planning.
• Experience with grant writing or project documentation.
• Proficiency with GIS analysis or graphic design tools (e.g., Adobe Illustrator, SketchUp).
• AICP Candidate or Certification is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Conducts planning studies and assists with updates to land use plans, zoning ordinances, and development regulations.
• Reviews site plans, rezoning requests, variances, and special use permits for consistency with applicable codes.
• Collects, analyzes, and interprets planning data (e.g., land use, demographics, infrastructure).
• Prepares staff reports and presentations for public hearings, boards, and commissions.
• Serves as liaison to citizens, developers, and agencies to provide guidance on planning and development procedures.
• Coordinates community review of public and private projects and responds to public inquiries.
• Assists with administering regulatory programs, including floodplain and erosion control compliance.
• Maintains maps, files, and documentation in GIS and other planning systems.
• Provides support to the Planning Board, including agenda preparation, public notices, and minute-taking.
• Contributes to project tracking, grant reporting, and record-keeping.
• Participates in field inspections and on-site evaluations as needed.
• Attends evening meetings and occasional weekend events related to planning initiatives.

Benefits

• Equal opportunity/drug-free workplace employer.

What This Job Offers

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