DEVELOPMENT SERVICES SPECIALIST
City of Newport News
7 Newport News, VA Job Details 2 hours ago Qualifications Report preparation Land use law in public permitting Construction regulatory compliance Word processing Spreadsheets Writing skills Basic math Client inquiry handling Urban planning Mapping software Employee relationship building De-escalation techniques Conflict de-escalation Driver's License Construction plans Data management Construction drawing review Zoning research Zoning regulations Desktop applications GIS software Architectural zoning analysis Productivity software Local building codes Customer service problem-solving Full Job Description
JOB DESCRIPTION DEVELOPMENT SERVICES SPECIALIST PLANNING
Human Resources Newport News, Virginia Department
GENERAL STATEMENT OF RESPONSIBILITIES
Under general supervision, this position performs complex work in current planning, technical and administrative work in the review and coordination of site, development, and subdivision plans. Incumbents are responsible for conducting site plan and subdivision reviews in accordance with applicable federal, state and local regulations. Reports to the Assistant Director-Current Planning. There are two (2) levels of Development Services Specialist distinguished by the type and level of work performed and the qualifications of the employee.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS
Performs analysis and makes recommendations relative to planning principles through the review of site, development, and subdivision plans to ensure conformance with federal, state and city codes, ordinances and policies. Researches information relating to site and subdivision development; interprets codes, ordinances and policies for developers, contractors and citizens; provides technical assistance and guidance in obtaining plan approvals. Coordinates site and subdivision review activities with engineering staff, City departments and external agencies. Maintains subdivision and site plan file documentation. Reviews detailed bonding agreements, variances, and exceptions within prescribed limits; maintains and refunds the bonds related to site and subdivision files, land disturbances and right-of-way permits as necessary. Coordinates site and subdivision files, land disturbance, and right-of-way permits as necessary. Coordinates site, subdivision agreements and land development agreements for contractors. Performs other duties as assigned.
PERFORMANCE STANDARD
Employees at all levels are expected to effectively work together to meet the needs of the community and the organization through work behaviors demonstrating the City's Values. Employees are also expected to lead by example and demonstrate the highest level of ethics.
REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE
Planning
- Comprehensive knowledge of current practices, principles and techniques of the municipal planning process, as they pertain to development and redevelopment. Zoning and Development
- Comprehensive knowledge of City ordinances, codes and regulations pertaining to planning and land development.
Knowledge of federal and state codes related to site PC# 23604 23606 Page 1 of 3
Revised:
11/01/2024 and subdivision development and zoning. Knowledge of legal property descriptions, construction drawings and plans.
REQUIRED SKILLS
Interpersonal Relationships/Customer Service
- Develops and maintains cooperative and professional relationships with employees, managers, and representatives from other departments and organizations. Able to effectively handle routine inquires and complaints and disputes with customers. Technology
- Utilizes a personal computer with word processing, spreadsheet, and related software to effectively complete a variety of administrative tasks with reasonable speed and accuracy. Knowledge in permitting software and GIS. Critical Thinking
- Uses logic and reasoning to understand, analyze, and evaluate complex situations; performs research to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches.
Diffuses emotional situations and exercises appropriate judgment to establish priorities and take prompt action for problem resolution.
REQUIRED ABILITIES
Communication
- Ability to communicate ideas effectively, including the preparation of reports and logs. Ability to listen and understand directions, information and ideas presented verbally and in writing. Ability to handle a variety of customer service issues with tact and diplomacy and in a confidential manner. Time Management
- Ability to plan and organize daily work routine. Ability to establish priorities for the completion of work in accordance with sound time-management principles. Mathematics
- Ability to perform basic arithmetic and statistical applications.
Ability to employ basic math principles and practices in the analysis and reporting of data.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
Development Services Specialist
- Requires a Bachelor's degree in Planning, Landscape Architecture, Architecture, Civil Engineering, or a related field 1-2 years of related experience in planning or site plan review, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Development Services Specialist, Senior
- Requires a Bachelor's degree in Planning, Landscape Architecture, Civil Engineering or a related field and 3-5 years of related experience in planning or site plan review, or an equivalent combination of education and experience
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS
Requires an acceptable general background check to include a local and state criminal history check. Requires a valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
Requires the ability to exert light physical effort in sedentary to light work. Some lifting, carrying, pushing and/or pulling of objects and materials of light weight (5-10 pounds). Tasks may involve extended periods of time at keyboard or work station. PC# 23604 23606 Page 2 of 3
Revised:
11/01/2024 SENSORY
REQUIREMENTS
Some tasks require the ability to perceive and discriminate sounds and visual cues or signals. Some tasks require the ability to communicate orally.
ENVIRONMENTAL EXPOSURES
Essential functions are regularly performed without exposure to adverse environmental conditions. PC# 23604 23606 Page 3 of 3
Revised:
11/01/2024