Planning Manager

Archuleta County•Pagosa Springs, CO

About The Position

Under general direction from the Development Services Division Director, the Planning Manager manages, coordinates, and directs the County’s current and long-range planning efforts. The role serves as technical planner, land use compliance officer, zoning administrator, and floodplain manager. It acts as a community liaison by assisting and advising the public, answering inquiries, and administering County rules and regulations, as well as applicable local, state, and federal laws. The position requires broad working knowledge of the practical and lawful application of regulations to provide appropriate advice to applicants. It delivers services to external and internal customers and seeks mutually agreeable, beneficial outcomes or solutions. The Planning Manager directly supervises Planning Department staff, provides overall management of department planning issues, and mentors and trains less experienced staff. The role advises boards, commissions, and elected officials; supports the Planning Commission; manages department operations and budgets; and may represent the County before government agencies and organizations. It also reviews proposed development in Special Flood Hazard Areas and issues floodplain development permits in compliance with the National Flood Insurance Program. The position attends a substantial number of evening and weekend meetings and may fulfill the responsibilities of other Department positions during extended absences or vacancies.

Requirements

At least two years of experience in the planning profession.
At least two years of supervisory experience.
Knowledge of planning and development and local government policies and procedures.
Knowledge of a planning specialization such as zoning, land use law, transportation, or economic development.
Knowledge of research methods and statistical principles related to growth and development.
Knowledge of technical report preparation and presentation methods and techniques.
Knowledge of pertinent federal, state, and local laws, codes, and regulations, including recent changes.
Understanding and application of basic environmental engineering concepts such as drainage, simple hydrology, and erosion.
Knowledge of supervision, training, and personnel management principles and practices.
Knowledge of budgeting procedures and local government procedures and practices.
Knowledge of recent developments, current literature, and information sources related to local governmental planning and administration.
Knowledge of citizen involvement techniques and processes.
Knowledge of computer hardware and software, which may include Microsoft Office, Internet applications, econometric or transportation modeling, database management, or GIS.
Detail-oriented and experienced with highly visible or controversial projects.
Ability to manage multiple high-priority assignments and work on several projects or issues simultaneously.
Strong interpersonal skills to build internal and external working relationships and resolve complaints.
Strong analytical skills to interpret research data, prepare reports, and identify locally appropriate practical techniques.
Reading comprehension sufficient to understand technical and legal materials.
Ability to provide effective supervision and staff management.
Ability to manage projects effectively and meet firm deadlines.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in planning or a closely related field preferred.
AICP certification preferred.

Responsibilities

Manage complex and sensitive professional planning projects, research, and analysis.
Monitor and ensure compliance with local, state, and federal laws.
Provide overall management of department-related planning issues.
Mentor, guide, and train less experienced staff members throughout the Development Services Division.
Advise boards, commissions, and elected officials on planning-related issues.
Serve as liaison to and perform necessary functions in support of the Planning Commission.
Assign work to planning staff and ensure appropriate training is provided.
Evaluate assigned operations and activities, prepare reports, and recommend improvements or modifications.
Handle sensitive personnel matters.
Participate in budget preparation and administration, and monitor and control expenditures.
Attend a substantial number of evening and weekend meetings.
Review proposed development in Special Flood Hazard Areas and issue floodplain development permits in compliance with the National Flood Insurance Program.
Maintain files and records to ensure compliance with state and federal agencies.
Engage in training to fulfill job duties and perform other assigned duties.
Fulfill responsibilities of other Department positions during extended absences or vacancies.
May represent the County with local, state, and federal agencies and organizations to advance County goals and priorities.