Planning Technician

City of Asheville•Asheville, NC

About The Position

The City of Asheville’s Planning and Urban Design Department is hiring a Planning Technician to process and record development plans, applications, and related documentation, and to perform complex administrative duties supporting department operations. The position also supports the Historic Resources program, including the Historic Resources Commission and review of applications for Certificates of Appropriateness. The role provides customer service and technical assistance to the public, applicants, developers, and staff on department procedures, fees, development projects, and land use and zoning regulations. It processes development submissions, coordinates meetings and inspections, maintains databases and website content, and supports boards and commissions. The position also supports Site Development and Planning division compliance programs, including post-construction stormwater and subdivision programs. The City of Asheville is an equal opportunity employer and a second chance employer. Reasonable accommodations are available to qualified individuals with disabilities. Some positions may require a fingerprint-based SBI background check after a conditional offer and before the start date; Human Resources will provide instructions if applicable.

Requirements

Associate degree in Geography, Planning, or a related field.
One year of experience in customer service and administrative or clerical support in a planning and development environment; an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience may also qualify.
Ability to obtain, interpret, evaluate, audit, and apply quantitative or qualitative data using established criteria and discretion.
Ability to communicate and collaborate effectively with individuals and groups, including through persuasion, facilitation, and professional relationship-building.
Ability to operate and adapt tools, equipment, technology systems, and materials required for the work.
Ability to understand, interpret, and communicate complex information using reference, descriptive, advisory, or policy-related materials.
Ability to apply mathematical concepts and quantitative reasoning appropriate to the job.
Ability to apply principles, policies, and professional knowledge to develop solutions using independent judgment.
Ability to exercise judgment and adaptability in changing or subjective circumstances.
Ability to analyze information, evaluate alternatives, anticipate consequences, and develop logical solutions.

Responsibilities

Provide information and assistance about department services, procedures, and fees; help the public complete land use applications and forms, research inquiries and complaints, and initiate problem resolution.
Evaluate developer submissions for completeness and regulatory compliance as part of technical and administrative review processes.
Schedule and facilitate pre-application and technical review meetings, maintain department databases and website content, and coordinate pre-construction meetings and final inspections.
Review financial surety documentation for accuracy, maintain records of active bonds, and coordinate bond acceptance and release with applicants, developers, and financial institutions.
Support the Historic Resources program and Historic Resources Commission, including reviewing applications for Certificates of Appropriateness.
Conduct routine zoning compliance and permit reviews and provide on-call technical assistance on land use, land disturbance, and zoning regulations.
Provide administrative support to assigned boards and commissions by preparing agendas and public meeting notices, updating website content, and maintaining records and documentation.
Communicate and exchange project information with homeowners, engineers, architects, city officials, the public, and other departments and agencies.
Respond to development project inquiries, explain zoning codes, and coordinate work across departments and outside agencies.
Manage development applications, plan revisions, GIS data, financial records, and other operational documentation.
Track compliance for post-construction stormwater and subdivision programs, manage compliance databases, and recommend process improvements.