Planner II - Community Development & Planning

City of Fairfax•Va 22030, VA

About The Position

The City of Fairfax is seeking an experienced planning professional to lead complex planning initiatives, review development applications, and support zoning and land-use decisions. This is responsible journey-level professional work in planning, zoning, and community development. The role organizes and conducts complex planning studies; manages and evaluates development-plan reviews for conformity with laws, regulations, and policies; and processes, reviews, and recommends zoning-related policies. The position works with considerable independence in achieving study objectives and interpreting and applying development, subdivision, and zoning laws and regulations. Work is performed under the general supervision of the Division Chief and the Director of Community Development and Planning, who provide instructions and review work for technical soundness and quality. The Planner collects and analyzes data and develops recommendations regarding zoning, land use, public facilities, historic preservation, architecture, and environmental planning. The role reviews development plans and land-use applications, prepares staff reports and technical materials, develops and updates planning documents and ordinances, and presents the City's position at public hearings. It also involves customer service, community outreach, coordination with public bodies and agencies, site inspections, and investigation of complex zoning complaints. Hours are Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.; occasional evening meetings are required.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Urban Planning, Architecture, Landscape Architecture, or a related field.
Three years of experience in planning, urban design, zoning, or closely related work; alternatively, an equivalent combination of experience and a Master's degree in Urban Planning, Public Administration, or a closely related field.
Considerable knowledge of modern theories, principles, and techniques of urban planning and development.
Considerable knowledge of legal provisions and standards applicable to zoning, planning, land use, and community development.
Considerable knowledge of urban design fundamentals, development ordinances, and historic preservation.
Considerable knowledge of urban and development economics.
Knowledge of computer software.
Ability to identify and evaluate community needs, assess the correctness of land-use and other data, and work from maps and property descriptions.
Ability to read and interpret site plans and blueprints.
Ability to enforce codes and regulations firmly and tactfully.
Ability to plan, organize, and present reports effectively, orally and in writing.
Ability to use maps and graphics effectively in reports.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees, the development community, and the general public.
Valid driver's license and safe driving record.

Nice To Haves

Certification by the American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) is preferred.

Responsibilities

Collect and analyze data and formulate recommendations concerning zoning, land use, public facilities, historic preservation, architecture, and environmental planning.
Evaluate plans for compliance with zoning requirements and prepare staff reports on applications, ordinance amendments, plan amendments, proposals, and appeals.
Answer customer questions, provide information and referrals, and ensure appropriate follow-through or resolution.
Develop and update the Comprehensive Plan, zoning ordinances, and other planning documents.
Conduct on-site inspections of architecture, landscaping, site amenities, and other improvements to review applications and ensure compliance with approval conditions.
Present staff positions at public hearings before the City Council, Planning Commission, Board of Architectural Review, Board of Zoning Appeals, and citizen groups.
Create illustrative materials, including charts, graphs, tables, and 3D renderings, for reports and displays.
Maintain the department web page and social media, and coordinate community outreach and promotion of meetings and plans.
Negotiate positions on issues, proffers, and conditions on behalf of the City with applicants, citizens, City staff, and others.
Develop studies, analyses, and recommendations related to the City's current and long-range physical, social, and economic development.
Gather, compile, and analyze data about area characteristics; summarize conditions, draw conclusions, and develop projections on issues such as population trends, highway needs, and land use.
Research and prepare amendments to development ordinances, the Comprehensive Plan, and the Capital Improvement Program.
Review development plans, land-use applications, architectural drawings, and site plans for conformity with technical requirements; conduct construction inspections for conformity with approved plans and preferred rezoning.
Investigate and resolve complex zoning-violation complaints, ensure violation notices are issued, and recommend legal action concerning noncompliance.
Communicate with the public, property owners, developers, and attorneys about planning and zoning matters, explaining problems and procedures.
Act as a technical advisor to other city planners within the area of specialization.
Liaise with public bodies and agencies, represent the City on committees, and attend public hearings, work sessions, and planning conferences.
Use computers and statistical methods to solve problems and maintain databases.
Prepare special reports, recommendations, supporting graphic materials, and technical manuals.
Perform related work as assigned.