Senior Planner

CITY OF BELMONT • Belmont, NC

1d • $61,186 - $97,898 • Hybrid

About The Position

The Senior Planner performs responsible and technically difficult work in land use planning and zoning regulations. The role reviews and responds to development applications, prepares reports and correspondence, supports ordinances and regulations, maintains planning documents and the City's GIS database, and participates in public meetings. The Senior Planner also responds to public questions and mentors other planning staff. The position is based at the CityWorks Building in Belmont, North Carolina; occasional remote work is permitted.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in planning, public administration, architecture, geography, or a closely related field.
• Five years of progressively responsible experience in planning and policy; applicants with a master's degree in Urban Planning, Public Administration, or another related field may be considered with a minimum of three years of experience.
• At least one planning-related certification.
• Possess or be able to obtain a North Carolina driver's license within four months.
• Possess or be able to obtain AICP certification in less than one year.
• Ability to communicate clearly and concisely verbally and in writing.
• Knowledge of current planning and design principles, practices, trends, regulations, standards, and measurements.
• Knowledge of municipal planning and local government administration principles and practices.
• Knowledge of state and local laws relating to planning and land use regulations.
• Knowledge of ArcGIS Pro, Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook.
• Good organizational and time-management skills; ability to work effectively with developers, design professionals, contractors, citizens, and other diverse customers.
• Ability to work independently and in a team environment, solve problems, and apply creativity in decision making.

Nice To Haves

• Additional planning-related certifications.

Responsibilities

• Review, analyze, and respond to project applications, including plats, permits, site plans, variance requests, and rezonings, ensuring compliance with ordinances and standards and making recommendations that balance user and community needs.
• Write and present formal and technical reports, working papers, and correspondence.
• Write or assist in writing ordinances and regulations related to development controls.
• Assist with updates and maintenance of the Comprehensive Plan and land development regulations.
• Manage and update the City's GIS database, coordinating with internal and external staff as needed.
• Attend and present at public meetings, including evening meetings, and assist other planning staff as appropriate.
• Respond to public questions regarding zoning and plan review matters.
• Mentor Planners and Planning Technicians, including assisting with site plan reviews, text amendments, and zoning inspections.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior