Planner II

City of New Haven, CT•New Haven, CT

39d•Hybrid

About The Position

The City Plan Department works to improve the well-being of all residents in our community by creating safe, equitable, healthful, economically vibrant and attractive places. Planners engage with residents, community leaders, and elected officials to guide the development of physical spaces and develop frameworks for the long-term sustainable growth and development of the city. City Plan is the regulatory body for land use development in the city through the City Plan Commission, the Board of Zoning Appeals and the Historic District Commission. The City Plan Department facilitates the physical development of the City and encourages the development of sustainable land use, economic, and social policy. We are responsible for the Comprehensive Plan of Development, as well as other area-specific development plans and we work with city agencies, commissions, and boards to provide planning, zoning, and development information and advice, assisting residents, businesses, and developers in achieving the City's development objectives. This is an ideal opportunity for a Planner early in their career to gain valuable experience in the fields of Civil Engineering, Urban Planning, and Environmental Design, in a small city of 20.31 sq mi with over 130,000 residents. PRIMARY FUNCTIONS This is a professional planning position involving various responsibilities in the City Plan Department, including support for the City Plan Commission matters as well as participation in analytical and research projects, project management and planning studies. Work is performed under the supervision of a professional superior and is reviewed through conferences, reports, and evaluation of results. Hybrid remote work options may be available for some aspects of the work once work routine are established.

Requirements

Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with major course work such as Public Policy, Public Administration, Planning, Geography, Economics, Environmental Studies, Civil Engineering, Cartography, Architecture, and/or Environmental Design, or a related field; and, 1 to 2 years of combined education and experience which provides the following knowledge, abilities and skills.
Knowledge of the principles and practices of zoning and land use and environmental planning particularly as they apply to an urban setting.
Knowledge of governmental structure and local, state, and federal regulations pertaining to land use, zoning, environmental planning, and other urban development activities.
Familiarity with legal principles related to urban planning, including zoning laws, land use regulations, and development codes.
Knowledge of research practices applicable to urban planning.
Knowledge of computer programs commonly used for planning analysis, mapping, and design.
Proficiency in creating visually appealing and informative graphics, charts, and maps to convey planning information effectively.
Ability to read, develop, and interpret planning, zoning, and land use maps.
Proficiency in utilizing Geographic Information Systems (GIS) software for spatial data analysis and mapping
Ability to develop and apply computer skills as required.
Ability to critically evaluate complex data, identify trends, and draw meaningful conclusions to inform planning decisions.
Capability to effectively plan, coordinate, and manage multiple projects with varying timelines and resources.
Flexibility to adapt to changing priorities, evolving regulations, and emerging technologies in the field of urban planning.
Ability to assemble and organize and analyze relevant information, and to write reports on a variety of planning, development, zoning, and related matters.
Ability to engage with residents, community leaders, and stakeholders to gather input, address concerns, and build consensus in planning initiatives.
Strong presentation and public speaking skills for effectively conveying complex planning concepts to diverse audiences.
Ability to express ideas clearly and concisely, orally and in writing, or through maps drawings or other graphic images.
Skill in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with agency personnel, other city employees, stakeholders, and the public.
Understanding of principles and practices related to sustainable urban development, including green infrastructure and energy efficiency.
Must have a valid driver's license.

Responsibilities

Assists the Executive Director and Director of Comprehensive Planning and other Departments staff with the research and preparation of city-wide and neighborhood plans.
Reviews, writes recommendation reports, and provides administration for applications to the Board of Zoning Appeals, City Plan Commission, or Historic District Commission.
Researches and writes reports on matters referred to the City Plan Commission from the Board of Alders or the Board of Zoning Appeals and other issuing departments and agencies, such as Livable City Initiative, the Office of Business Development and the New Haven Redevelopment Agency.
Depending on assignment, may focus on environmental development plans, including completing Environmental Reviews and maintaining Environmental Review record.
Meets and maintains liaison with city staff, developers, architects, and others involved in physical economic and environmental development plans, projects, including mapping projects, alone or as a member of a work group.
Reviews and prepares reports and maps on projects, including mapping projects, and policy recommendations independently or as a member of a work group.
Reviews and endorses building permits and certification of occupancy forms.
Assists zoning staff in site inspection, background, and evaluation of current zoning matters.
Drafts zoning compliance letters, memos and reports, Board of Zoning decision letters as well as Board of Zoning appeals meeting notices and reports.
Drafts and administers Treasurer's report to the Finance Department for application payments.
Attends Commission, staff and other meetings and hearings, and may represent the Department as required.
Works with computer database, mapping, and drafting and design programs.
Prepares maps, diagrams, and charts.
Performs related work as required.