Principal Planner

Douglas County•Community Development Planning - Minden, NV

2d•Onsite

About The Position

Responsible for protecting the public health, safety, and general welfare of residents and property owners by reviewing development proposals to ensure code compliance. The Planning Division of Douglas County Community Development plays a crucial role in achieving the objectives of the Douglas County Master Plan. In addition to performing these duties and leading a team that provides assistance and information to the public in matters relating to planning, zoning, permit review, and County regulations, the Principal Planner role is also responsible for representing and speaking for the County at meetings as well as on regional boards, groups, and programs. This role requires someone with a strong foundation in professional planning, a critical thinker who understands the unique demands and challenges of zoning and land use within Douglas County, and someone capable of leading a successful and collaborative team in navigating the entitlement process of the County while balancing the needs of our community. Performs complex work under general direction of the Deputy Director of Community Development, responsible for supervising, coordinating and directing the County’s planning and zoning functions; serving as liaison to the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency (TRPA), Towns, General Improvement Districts (GID), and other agencies in regard to development processes.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Land Use Planning, Environmental Studies, Public Administration or a closely related field
five (5) years of experience in professional level planning
two (2) years of which were in a supervisory role
OR an equivalent combination of education, training and experience.

Nice To Haves

Current AICP certification is preferred but not required

Responsibilities

Supervises and directs the activities of assigned staff; coordinates, prioritizes and assigns tasks and projects; tracks and reviews work progress and activities; assists with the recruitment and selection of staff; undertakes disciplinary action as required; conducts performance evaluations; ensures appropriate scheduling of staff to ensure proper operational coverage.
Develops and implements goals, objectives, policies, procedures and work standards for the division.
Receives and processes various applications such as; variances, rezoning, specific plan amendments, area plan amendments, master plan amendments, subdivision maps, annexations, special use permits, and regulation items.
Develops and provides staff report and related materials for presentation on a proposed project to the County Planning Commission and the Board of County Commissioners.
Provides technical and professional planning services to achieve consistent and controlled growth in the County; assures project plans are in conformance to County goals, and in compliance with local, state and Federal codes and regulations.
Reviews and evaluates project designs, plans, technical documents for compliance with County standards and regulatory requirements; reviews land development proposals and planning and zoning changes; meets with and advises developers regarding development applications and processes; explains purposes, regulations and procedures of accepted development practices; suggests alternatives for an improved design.
Answers inquiries and assists the public and other agencies in matters relating to planning, zoning and permit review, and other County standards and regulations; provides information within scope of authority; represents and speaks for the County at meetings and on various regional boards, groups and programs, such as the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency (TRPA); provides advice related to planning and development to the Board of Commissioners, the County Manager, County Planning Commission, and other County departments.
Oversees the development review process, coordinating with team members from other divisions and departments; reviews and processes a variety of applications, permits and plans; reviews development plans with developers, builders, utility companies, and other County departments; provides reports and findings to the Deputy Director of Community Development; oversees the Genoa Historic District Commission; provides reports on planning, zoning and development matters for presentation to the County Planning Commission and County Board of Commissioners.
Manages special projects as assigned; conducts research and analysis on permits, plans, rules and regulations; oversees the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG).
Coordinates with various regional government organizations, community groups, and state and Federal agencies; attends public meetings and coordinates discussions on regional planning and zoning issues.
Initiates, formulates, and recommends planning and development related ordinances, programs, policies, and plans relative to current and long range plans including County Master Plan updates, open space plans, and special studies on housing, population, transportation, and water; monitors and reviews trends in County and regional planning issues; researches and interprets laws, regulations, and general information.
Contributes to the efficiency and effectiveness of the unit's service to its customers by offering suggestions and directing or participating as an active member of a work team.
Represents the County with dignity, integrity, and a spirit of cooperation in all relationships with staff and the public.
Contributes effectively to the accomplishment of team or work unit goals, objectives, and activities.