Principal Planner (Concurrent Posting, Open Until Filled)

City of Columbia•Columbia, TN

About The Position

Under general supervision of the City Planner, manages the development review process, including review, delegation, and coordination of all requests for land entitlements, subdivisions, and site plan as assigned. The position additionally supports the long range planning and zoning administration functions of the Planning & Zoning Division within the City of Columbia Development Services Department. This position may exercise supervision over other personnel as needed. Work involves tracking of development services activities. The role manages and coordinates the Development Review Committee (DRC) process for review and approval of development project submissions; rezoning applications, zoning conditions, and documentation for compliance with Columbia ordinances, policies and procedures. The Principal Planner tracks and addresses comments arising out of discussions in DRC. The position requires considerable knowledge of the principles, methods and practices of planning, including strong knowledge of current planning and development review. The Principal Planner is responsible for ensuring month-to-month reviews of proposed development is consistent with the Comprehensive Plan and related implementing regulations. The position ensures that new development and redevelopment creates the community character envisioned by the Planning Commission and City Council. Work involves extensive contact with developers, engineers, architects, builders, other allied professions, citizens, and other City departments.

Requirements

Knowledge of the principles, practices and methods used in geographic information system (GIS) as it relates to planning, and related mapping.
Knowledge of data gathering and research methods, data review, reporting and presentation.
Knowledge of land use law, zoning, and subdivision regulations.
Knowledge of City policies, procedures and ordinances related to land use and development.
Well-developed knowledge of land use planning, planning research, zoning, and subdivision practices.
Ability to communicate effectively with the public, applicants, design professionals, property owners, elected/appointed officials, other City staff and outside agencies.
Ability to perform comprehensive property research on a wide variety of development options.
Ability to coordinate with other city departments.
Ability to utilize geographic information systems (GIS).
Ability to prepare and deliver public presentations.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with associates, municipal officials, representatives of other agencies, and the public.
Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing.
Ability to provide excellent customer service.
Ability to work independently or in a team environment as needed.
Ability to work on several projects or issues simultaneously.
American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) required and/or eligible to obtain.

Nice To Haves

Experience with project management is preferred.
Master’s degree in planning, public administration, or business administration is preferred.

Responsibilities

Lead implementation of the Development Review Committee (DRC) process for review and approval of development project submissions.
Facilitate pre-application process and receive all requests for approval by the Planning Commission, Architectural Design Review Team, Historic Zoning Commission, and Board of Zoning Appeals.
Review all submittals for completeness.
Supervise the compilation of technical comments.
Review resubmittals for responsiveness and completeness.
Coordinate publication of agendas and ensure all required notice is complete.
Perform a rational nexus analysis for developments requests that secures public benefits consistent with Connect Columbia.
Serve as Acting City Planner/Zoning Administrator during the vacancy or absence of the City Planner; perform functions of Zoning Administrator by delegation from and in coordination with the City Planner; provide written interpretation of the Zoning Ordinance as necessary.
Reviews development projects to ensure consistency with Connect Columbia and conformity to the Zoning Ordinance.
Prepares reports for Planning Commission, Architectural Design Review Team, Historic Zoning Commission, and Board of Zoning Appeals; prepares related maps, graphics, or data tabulations as needed.
In coordination with the City Planner, delegate reviews, reports, and board support to the Planner I, Planner II and Zoning Technician positions as appropriate.
Assist with zoning administration as needed; train and support administrative professionals, Planner I and Planner II positions as needed.
Meets with the public, developers, and design professionals regarding existing and potential projects; answers inquiries from applicants and public regarding existing and potential projects by email and phone.
Advances best practices in planning, economic development, urban design, and historic preservation in Columbia.
Performs other related duties as required