DESCRIPTION OF WORK

Planner I is a member of the Planning Department and reports directly to the Senior Planner. All planning department staff, whether directly or indirectly, are supervised by the Planning Director. The Planner I provide information and technical assistance to the public regarding zoning and development regulations, historic preservation, subdivisions, permit and license issuance, and administrative and development review applications. The position also provides front counter assistance and general administrative and clerical support services to the Planning Department. Will be required to regularly attend after-hours committee meetings and provide staff support to advisory committees.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

(The following statements are illustrative of the essential functions of the job and do not include other nonessential or auxiliary duties that may be required. The City of Manitou Springs retains the right to modify or change the duties or essential functions of the job at any time.):

• Perform a variety of administrative and professional functions including answering the department phone, writing minutes, preparing meeting packets, filing, and preparing invoices.
• Answer questions and provide information to the public on the telephone, at the front counter, in writing, and by e-mail.
• Respond to requests for information and records from other departments, agencies, and the general public.
• Provide basic property information and interpret the zoning, subdivision, sign, and historic preservation codes.
• Receive, review, and issue various permits and licenses such as property improvement permits and sign permits.
• Manage minor development review applications (such as Minor Site Plans, Minor Development Plans, Minor Subdivisions, Material Change of Appearances, or other similar application) from the pre-application meeting stage through Certificate of Occupancy or other natural conclusion.

Conduct plan review by applying code requirements and assisting property owners/developers through the development review process. Mange the public notification process for each application as outlined in the City Code.

• Prepare written reports and support for the City Planning Commission, Historic Preservation Commission, and Housing Advisory Board.
• Maintain a variety of databases, records and files, and oversee the maintenance.
• Prepare maps and manage data sets using Geographic Information System (GIS).
• Design and develop general correspondence, memos, reports, and presentations. Proofread documents for the Planning Department.
• Maintain assigned webpages on the city website.
• Provide excellent internal and external customer service by responding to public inquiries in a professional manner, both written and verbal, providing assistance and support to the Planning Director and/or his designee as assigned.
• Attend various evening meetings each month.

Occasional attendance at weekend meetings or training sessions may be required. Occasionally required to alter work schedule to meet unanticipated demands such as changing or unexpected project deadlines and accommodating the schedules/deadlines of others.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

A valid driver's license. A high school diploma or GED. A Bachelor's Degree in land use planning, geography, public administration, environmental sciences or a related field preferably in local government which provides the necessary skills and experience to perform the responsibilities of the position. Knowledge and experience with Geographic Information Systems operation. Public sector experience desirable but not required. Specifically demonstrated work experience in a planning role desired but not required.

KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS

An understanding of land use planning, zoning, development review and the functions of municipal government. Knowledge of government practices and state and local planning requirements. The ability to read and comprehend the municipal code and apply technical standards in land use analysis. The ability to meet deadlines and manage multiple projects at once. The ability to function in a fast paced, multi-disciplinary setting and work independently with limited supervision. The ability to consistently give exceptional customer service. The ability to work and communicate clearly and effectively both verbally and in writing with city officials, co-workers, applicants, outside agencies, and the public. The ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with fellow employees, superiors, outside agencies, and members of the public. Proficiency with general office machines, computers, and software programs such as Word, Excel, Access and electronic work order tracking applications.

• General knowledge of office, records management, and office correspondence.

Ability to analyze situations and adopt an effective and reasonable course of action giving due regard to regulations and circumstances of each situation independently and critically. Have a working knowledge of state and local planning practices, including current and long-range planning. The ability to work with the public and effectively handle various personality types and situations. The ability to appropriately assess and resolve conflicts and problems that may arise.

Pay:

From $28.75 per hour Expected hours: 40.0 per week

Benefits:

401(k) Dental insurance Employee assistance program Flexible spending account Health insurance Health savings account Life insurance Paid time off Retirement plan Vision insurance

Work Location:

In person