Associate Planner

JOB DESCRIPTION

The City of Westlake Village is seeking an experienced and enthusiastic Associate Planner who has the ability to develop and maintain positive and ongoing relationships and interactions with the public, City staff, and consultants; the ability to complete tasks in a timely manner; and the appropriate skills in managing multiple projects and activities at the same time. The position will assist the Planning Director in administering the City's Zoning Ordinances, General Plan, and various other programs in support of the City's residents and businesses. A motivated and organized individual who enjoys being nimble and adaptive to the needs of the organization will thrive in this unique position. Duties & Responsibilities Under the general supervision of the Planning Director, this position performs midlevel professional and technical duties involving current and advance planning activities, environmental analysis, and the preparation of assigned reports or special duties. The position will prepare complex planning reports, and make recommendations on development permit applications; coordinate and evaluate development proposals and various permit applications; confer with and advise architects, builders, contractors, engineers, and the general public regarding City development policies and standards; undertake current or advance planning studies and projects and conduct surveys and basic research; respond to public inquiries, both orally and in writing, regarding zoning, planning, or related issues; analyze data and project information with respect to relevant laws, ordinances, regulations, and policies; determine methods to reconcile project conflicts with legal and policy requirements; conduct field inspections to ensure compliance with City regulations and policies; assist with preparation of amendments to the City's General Plan and Zoning Ordinance; participate in the preparation or review of environmental impact and planning reports; manage and coordinate plan reviews and permit approvals with Los Angeles County Building and Safety staff; coordinate enforcement of City codes with the Community Preservation Officer and the City Prosecutor; make public presentations and present oral reports on planning information and activities, serve as Emergency Response Worker as necessary, and perform related duties and responsibilities as required.

DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS

The ideal candidate will have knowledge of the principles and practices of urban planning; state law and local ordinances and codes governing land use, development standards, environmental regulations including the Subdivision Map Act and CEQA; modern office procedures, methods, and equipment; principles and procedures of record keeping; and site planning and architectural review. A knowledge of Microsoft Office and basic computer skills is required. The City of Westlake Village relies on the "contract city model" for the delivery of services by retaining a small, cross trained staff. The City of Westlake Village prides itself on having staff who are highly responsive and dedicated to providing assistance beyond its residents' expectations. The Associate Planner will be part of a team that emphasizes these qualities in meeting the needs of the organization and community.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

Any combination of training and experience that would provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required qualifications would be:

Education:

A bachelor's degree from an accredited university or college with a major in urban planning, architecture, geography, or related field. Additional graduate training is desirable.

Experience:

At least two (2) years of experience in a planning position with directly relevant experience in public planning, environmental, transportation, or urban design/architectural issues. Experience with a city or county agency is desirable.

BENEFITS

See Job Listing for full benefit details