City Planner Jobs

About The Position

Requirements

• Knowledge of the principles, techniques, and objectives of all phases of urban planning.
• Knowledge of the principles and practices of public agency planning.
• Knowledge of federal, state and local laws, regulations, and ordinances pertaining to planning and urban development.
• Knowledge of budgeting procedures and techniques.
• Knowledge of utilizing sources data.
• Knowledge of statistical research and reporting methods, techniques, and procedures.
• Skills in Microsoft Office, GIS (Geographic Information System) software, and graphic design concepts.
• Skills in giving public presentations.
• Ability to perform statistical analysis of demographic data.
• Ability to coordinate and manage the review of complex projects.
• Ability to communicate clearly and effectively, both verbally and in writing.
• Ability to speak before public groups and make presentations to the Planning & Zoning Commission and Mayor & City Council.
• Ability to read and interpret plans, drawings, and field notes.
• Ability to analyze and interpret zoning and subdivision maps.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers, management, and the general public.
• Ability to coordinate with and effectively work with outside agencies, groups, and individuals.
• Ability to prepare accurate, concise, and detailed reports.
• Ability to apply technical skills in the area of land use regulation, particularly Texas zoning and subdivision regulation.
• Ability to work with the general public, other governmental agencies, and elected officials.
• Ability to communicate clearly and effectively, both orally and in writing in the English and Spanish languages.
• Ability to perform all the physical requirements of the position.
• Ability to maintain a valid Texas Driver License and a good driving record.
• Required to comply with all City of Laredo's policies and procedures.
• Ability to project a positive and professional image of the City of Laredo.
• Ability to maintain good health and physical condition sufficient to permit the full performance of the duties of the position.
• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in Urban Studies, Public Administration, Architecture, GIS, or related field.
• Valid Texas Driver License.

Nice To Haves

• If applicant holds an out-of-state license, a State of Texas Driver License must be obtained within 6 months of employment.
• As part of the minimum requirements for all positions with the City of Laredo, a thorough background check and certified school transcripts will be required from all applicants who are offered employment.
• Effective February 24, 1997, all selected applicants are required to undergo a drug and alcohol test prior to employment.
• Effective January 7, 2008, all persons in safety-sensitive functions/positions, as per City of Laredo Drug and Alcohol Policy definition, shall be subject to random drug and alcohol testing.
• A person with a disability who needs a reasonable accommodation related to a selection process is requested to contact the Human Resources Department at (956) 791-7480 two days prior to the scheduled interview and/or test if applicable.
• City of Laredo is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action/Pro Disabled and Veteran Employer.
• We welcome differences in the form of gender, race, ethnicity, disability, geography, socioeconomic status, age, politics, religion, philosophy, sexual orientation, or gender identity.
• All applicants who share this goal are encouraged to apply.
• Must be able to function in a principle-based organization that has a culture built on character and core values.

Responsibilities

• Answers questions from the public concerning subdivisions requirements and zoning issues; ensures information is provided in an accurate, complete and timely manner.
• Receives applications; checks the completeness of each application and assembles the files.
• Distributes the agenda to Planning and Zoning Commission members.
• Prepares written comments from the Planning Department for the Planning and Zoning Commission subdivision plats with the Planning Director.
• Writes the minutes from the previous Planning & Zoning Commission; prepares map for plat communications and some zoning cases.
• Updates the files for plats by inserting communications and minutes; updates database on the status of plats going to the Planning & Zoning Commission.
• Copies, collates and binds committee information packets and ensures the accuracy and completeness of the same.
• Assists in the preparation of committee meetings by setting up refreshments, nameplates or audio recording equipment.
• Collects the required signatures on approved plats; takes the plats to the County clerk to be recorded; collects copies from engineering files; records copies and maintains data file on the status of approved plats.
• Assigns drafting and copying tasks to support staff; monitors their work for accuracy and completeness.
• Prepares ordinance necessary to improve the efficiency of subdivision plat procedures.
• Coordinates, plans, schedules, and assigns work to support staff; instructs and trains in correct methods and procedures.
• Uses GIS and other data sources, to research and analyze information in the development and planning reports.
• Maintains, updates, and files all pertinent logs, information cards, tapes, and other records and documents daily.
• Assists in maintaining good communication between staff, visitors, and other business contacts.
• Must follow all rules of telephone courtesy in all radio and telephone communications.
• Will be required to drive a City vehicle for City business use.
• Performs other duties as assigned.