Planner II

City of Bentonville•Bentonville, AR

9d•Onsite

About The Position

When assigned duties as a Comprehensive Planner: Performs responsible and independent professional planning work in support of the Bentonville Community Plan and related long-range initiatives. Conducts research, analysis, and project coordination for planning studies, policy development, and implementation initiatives. Prepares reports, maps, and presentations, and presents findings and recommendations to City boards, Planning Commission, City Council, and community stakeholders. Serves as staff lead for assigned program areas, which may include neighborhood planning initiatives, advisory committees, community development programs such as the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), and public engagement efforts. Coordinates with City departments, partner organizations, and community stakeholders to advance adopted plans and strategic initiatives. Provides planning support for redevelopment opportunities and economic development initiatives, including preparation of site information and Requests for Proposals for strategic City properties. Reporting relationships, work assignments, and work schedules may be subject to change in order to meet City needs or operational requirements. In-person attendance at work and the ability to deal courteously & diplomatically with the public, supervisors, co-workers and other departments and organizations are essential elements of this position. Other duties may be assigned.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in urban planning, community development, or a related field and two (2) years of related experience in community development and/or training; or Master’s degree in urban planning, community development, or a related field and one (1) year of related experience in community development and/or training.
Knowledge of the principles, practices, and methods of planning and/or public administration and laws.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
Experience with “ESRI” GIS.
Experience with Adobe Acrobat Pro and Bluebeam Revu.
Proficiency with operating phones, computers, televisions, printers, copiers, and A/V equipment.
Experience interacting with members of the public in a calm and courteous manner.
Ability to read and comprehend codes, maps, development plans and plats.
Ability to communicate clearly and effectively, both orally and in writing while maintaining composure under pressure.
Ability to write reports, ordinances and presentations for public consumption that conform to prescribed style and format.
Effectively present information to management, city officials, organizations and agencies, and public groups.
Effectively respond to common inquiries or complaints from customers, regulatory agencies, or members of the business community.
Apply concepts of basic math, algebra and geometry.
Calculate figures and amounts such as proportions, percentages, area, circumference, and volume.
Apply concepts such as fractions, percentages, ratios, and proportions to practical situations.
Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions.
Interpret an extensive variety of federal, state and local regulations.
Valid Driver’s License

Nice To Haves

Certified Arkansas Planning Official
Arkansas Certified Public Manager
Graduate of Community Development Institute from University of Central Arkansas
Congress for New Urbanism Accredited (CNU-A)
Other certification considered beneficial to the essential duties and responsibilities, as determined by the Planning Director

Responsibilities

Conduct research and prepare components of long-range plans, special area plans, economic development strategies, and planning studies.
Coordinate implementation initiatives that advance adopted plans, including collaboration with City departments, community organizations, and partner agencies.
Draft and recommend amendments to zoning ordinances, land development regulations, and related planning policies.
Collect and analyze demographic, economic, and land-use data and prepare GIS mapping and technical summaries that support planning decisions.
Prepare planning reports, studies, and presentations.
Present findings and recommendations to City boards, Planning Commission, City Council, and community stakeholders.
Coordinate and advance neighborhood planning initiatives, including program development, implementation strategies, neighborhood outreach and education, and coordination with residents, stakeholders, and partner organizations.
In consultation with the Comprehensive Planning Manager provide staff coordination and project support for public art initiatives, including agenda preparation, coordination with artists and stakeholders, and implementation of public art projects.
Coordinate public engagement efforts such as workshops, stakeholder meetings, surveys, and outreach events. Assist with communication of planning initiatives through city newsletter, website updates and digital media.
Assist with preparation and administration of grants supporting community development initiatives, including compliance with federal requirements, the preparation of Annual Action Plans and five-year Consolidated Plans, coordination with subrecipients, and reporting activities.
Provide staff coordination for the Tree and Landscape Advisory Committee, including agenda preparation, technical coordination, and implementation of urban forestry and landscape-related initiatives.
Support economic development and redevelopment initiatives by preparing site information, coordinating Requests for Proposals for strategic City properties, assisting prospective businesses or developers with planning information, and identifying opportunities consistent with the Community Plan.