Zoning Technician

The City of Bay City, Michigan•Bay City, MI

About The Position

The Zoning Technician is a full-time union position in the Community Development department, working under the general supervision of the Planning & Zoning Manager. The role assists with administering the City’s Code of Ordinances related to planning and zoning, may assist with enforcement, and serves as a primary public contact for zoning compliance matters. The position reviews permits, plans, and business applications for zoning compliance; provides guidance to the public and City officials; researches zoning status; and uses GIS tools to support property-data and zoning-map management. It also supports records management, code updates, plan review, inspections, and enforcement. The Zoning Technician serves as staff liaison to the Zoning Board of Appeals and as the City’s Zoning Enforcement Officer. Field investigations, public meetings, presentations, violation notices, citations, and court appearances may be required as needed. The role requires knowledge of Michigan statutes and municipal planning and zoning, effective written and oral communication, independent judgment, and the ability to work with interruptions and meet deadlines. Qualifications include a high school diploma or equivalent and either an associate degree in a related field or an equivalent combination of education and experience, along with a valid Michigan driver’s license.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
Associate degree with major coursework in engineering, architecture, planning, building, or related studies; alternatively, a high school diploma or GED plus two years of municipal planning or zoning experience and knowledge of inspection methods, practices, and techniques pertaining to building and zoning.
General knowledge of Michigan statutes and the principles and practices of municipal planning and zoning.
Ability to work independently with minimal guidance and as part of a team.
Ability to establish effective working relationships and use good judgment, initiative, and resourcefulness when dealing with City officials, developers, contractors, and the public.
Effective written and oral communication skills, including the ability to present information.
Ability to work with interruptions and meet deadlines under time constraints.
Skill in reviewing and interpreting plans, blueprints, and specifications.
Ability to operate a computer.
Must possess and maintain a valid Michigan driver’s license.
Strong independent critical-thinking skills for sustained periods.

Responsibilities

Provide information and guidance to the public, developers, builders, and City officials regarding zoning regulations.
Review building, sign, and fence permits; site plans; and business applications to determine zoning compliance.
Review zoning permits for legal nonconforming determinations and research compliance status using City records, aerial photographs, and related materials.
Perform mapping and data analysis using GIS tools to support property-data and zoning-map management.
Manage records and enter or log information in software databases and computerized maintenance management systems.
Supervise marihuana facility license application and renewal processes, monitor changes in state regulations, and assist with updating City code.
Recommend changes to codes, rules, and regulations based on recurring issues and special land-use matters.
Resolve complex and sensitive customer-service issues by phone or in writing and document problem solving.
Assist with providing and maintaining current information on department web pages.
Serve as staff liaison to the Zoning Board of Appeals.
Serve as the City of Bay City’s Zoning Enforcement Officer.
Maintain records and prepare studies, reports, and related decision-making information.
Support Planning & Zoning plan review, inspection, and enforcement activities.
Conduct site visits and field investigations as needed to verify property layouts, construction against approved plans, potential code violations, and site improvements for zoning compliance.
Assist with issuing and posting warning notices, notices of violations, corrective notices, and orders to comply; issue civil infraction citations and appear in court as necessary.
Attend public meetings and make presentations when needed.
Provide backup front-counter coverage for the Planning and Building divisions when staffing is limited.
Prepare agendas, assist with public hearing notifications, and attend monthly Zoning Board of Appeals meetings.
Perform other related work.