Planner II

County of Elmore•Mountain Home, ID

About The Position

The Planner II is a professional position responsible for processing simple and complex development applications and implementing the Zoning and Development Ordinance under the general direction of the Land Use and Building Director. The position monitors federal, state, and local regulations related to planning activities to promote health, welfare, and safety in Elmore County, exercising independent judgment, integrity, and professionalism. The Planner II coordinates land-use applications with outside agencies, the Prosecuting Attorney’s office, and applicants; serves as a technical resource for the public and team members; prepares hearing notices, agendas, legal notices, and staff reports; and presents recommendations to the Planning and Zoning Commission and Board of County Commissioners. The position also manages projects, budgets, data, and technical studies supporting planning, zoning, building, code enforcement, and other County operations. The work is primarily performed in a general office environment, with occasional field inspections. The role requires knowledge of the Local Land Use and Planning Act (Idaho Code Title 67, Chapter 65) and the Zoning and Development Ordinance. The employee independently manages assignments and coordinates with team members, agencies, County staff, and the public. Attendance at evening meetings is required.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in planning, public administration, or another related field.
At least two years of work experience in urban planning, planning and zoning, comprehensive planning, transportation planning, public administration, environmental planning, or another related field; alternatively, a combination of AICP, GIS, and CFM certifications.
Valid Idaho Driver’s License.
Knowledge of the Local Land Use and Planning Act and the Zoning and Development Ordinance.
Knowledge of comprehensive and regional planning, development review, planning legislation, municipal planning and zoning, and applicable federal, state, and local ordinances, regulations, and codes.
Knowledge of environmental review agency roles, development regulations, project and time management, research and data analysis, database management, budgeting, subdivision platting, legal descriptions, and basic surveying principles.
Ability to identify public concerns and resolve conflicts; interpret and explain procedures, codes, and ordinances; prepare reports, plans, and studies; conduct research and communicate findings effectively.
Ability to interpret and apply standards and policies, communicate orally and in writing, use mathematical reasoning and spatial orientation, and read maps, plans, charts, graphs, and diagrams.
Ability to operate computers and office equipment, including standard or customized software such as Microsoft Suite.
Ability to establish effective working relationships and communicate professionally with the public, developers, organizations, coworkers, supervisors, and County staff.
Ability to write clear reports conveying technical information, learn new skills, adapt to a changing environment, and make sound decisions in accordance with applicable laws, regulations, and procedures.
Flexibility to attend evening meetings.
Ability, with or without reasonable accommodation, to communicate effectively, review and prepare documents and maps, operate office equipment, and conduct occasional field inspections outdoors in adverse weather and rugged terrain.

Responsibilities

Prepare, process, and present land-use and development applications.
Research assigned development applications and prepare recommendations.
Coordinate and prepare agendas and staff reports for regular and special Planning and Zoning Commission meetings.
Provide staff support to the Planning and Zoning Commission and other committees on development matters.
Represent the department in regional planning and comprehensive planning activities.
Oversee the work of the administrative assistant, permit technician, and Planner I.
Review administrative decision requests, including floodplain development, environmental documents, and hillside grading applications, and prepare information for the Land Use and Building Director.
Study regional geographic, population, land-use, zoning, infrastructure, economic, and agricultural characteristics.
Develop and oversee technical studies supporting the Department’s strategic goals.
Develop project scope, budget, and timeframe for updates to the Comprehensive Plan and Zoning Ordinance under general guidance.
Develop geographic information database structures, tables, forms, and reports.
Arrange and lead agency meetings for complex planning applications and comprehensive planning functions.
Conduct oral presentations and public hearings or meetings about proposed community development activities as needed.
Develop procedural guidance for implementing the Zoning and Development Ordinance in building, code, and permit reviews.
Prepare and deliver reports and presentations to the Planning and Zoning Commission, Board of County Commissioners, and public groups concerning planning policies, projects, and compliance issues.
Attend meetings, conferences, workshops, and training sessions and review publications and audiovisual materials to remain current in assigned work areas.
Keep the Director and team members informed about assignments, concerns, and potential solutions or improvements.
Coordinate regularly with departments and agencies to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of interdepartmental and interagency operations.
Perform duties in accordance with Elmore County policies, procedures, and safety practices, and perform other duties as required.