Planning Assistant

SUMMARY DESCRIPTION

The Planning Assistant provides technical and administrative support across multiple program areas, which may include community planning, economic development, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), or transportation planning. This position is designed as a transitional role for individuals moving from an internship or for recent graduates beginning a career in planning.

SUPERVISORY CONTROLS

Receives general supervision from the Director of Community Planning & Economic Development or the Director of Transportation Planning. Supervisor sets the overall objectives and employee and supervisor, in consultation, develop the deadlines, projects, and work to be done; employee is responsible for planning and carrying out the assignment; and work is reviewed only from an overall standpoint.

RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES

General Planning Support 1. Assist with research, data collection, and analysis for regional planning projects 2. Support preparation of plans, reports, presentations, and grant applications 3. Compile and analyze demographic, economic, land use, and transportation data 4. Maintain project files, databases, and documentation 5. Provide administrative and project coordination support Transportation Planning 1. Assist with Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) activities and documentation 2. Support data collection and analysis related to traffic, safety, and mobility trends 3. Help prepare Transportation Improvement Programs (TIP), long-range plans, and related reports 4. Assist with public involvement activities, including meetings and stakeholder outreach Community Planning & Economic Development 1. Support local government planning initiatives, including comprehensive plans and studies 2. Assist with economic and community development projects, including grant support and reporting 3. Conduct research on housing, land use, and community needs 4. Assist with stakeholder engagement and public meetings GIS & Data Visualization 1. Assist with creation and maintenance of maps and spatial data using GIS software 2. Support data visualization for reports, presentation, and planning documents 3. Help maintain and update GIS databases and layers 4. Perform basic spatial analysis under supervision Other Duties 1. Perform other duties as assigned in support of departmental and organizational goals

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES REQUIRED

1. Basic knowledge of planning principles, including transportation, community development, economic development, or land use planning 2. General knowledge of research methods and data collection techniques 3. Familiarity with Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint 4. Experience with or desire to gain knowledge of Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Arc Pro, and/or ArcGIS Online 5. Basic analytical and problem-solving skills 6. Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing 7. Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment and interact professionally with staff, partners, and the public 8. Ability to manage multiple assignments and meet deadlines 9. Ability to follow instructions and work under supervision while developing increased independence 10. Ability to learn planning processes, programs, and technical tools, including GIS and data visualization software 11. Ability to interpret, summarize, and present information in reports and presentations 12. Ability to maintain attention to detail produce accurate work 13. Ability to adapt to changing priorities and assignments 14. High school diploma or equivalent required; current enrollment in or recent completion of associate's or bachelor's degree in urban planning, geography, public administration, economics, GIS, or a closely related field preferred, or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience. Familiarity with data analysis, Microsoft applications, and basic GIS or mapping tools is preferred. 15. A valid driver's license and a good driving record.

WORK CONDITIONS

The work is primarily sedentary and performed in an office environment. The employee typically sits while working but may also be required to walk, stand, bend, kneel, or reach to perform job duties. The position involves extended periods of computer use and may include handling light materials such as files, documents, and presentation equipment. Occasional lifting and carrying light items may be required. The role may include occasional local travel for meetings, site visits, field data collection, or community engagement activities.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

None