DEFINITION
Under general supervision, perform various planning work, with the primary responsibility of assisting the general public on planning, zoning, and environmental requirements. The position also helps review development and land use applications for zoning compliance, completes technical assessments and prepares written project analyses, and performs related work as required.
The Planning Technician position is an entry-level position where technical assistance is provided to support professional staff and handle specialized project and program assignments.
Work is split between in-office and fieldwork. Conditions involve some travel and may occasionally involve modified work hours or workdays to attend evening public hearings or weekend public outreach events.
SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED
Receives general supervision from the Chief of Planning. This position does not exercise supervision over others.
ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES
Essential duties may include, but are not limited to the following:
- Provide assistance and information to the general public, developers and contractors related to planning, zoning, and environmental requirements.
- Serve as the primary reviewer of Building Permits for zoning compliance.
- Process administrative current planning applications (e.g., sign permits, tree removal permits, land use permits, development plans, etc.).
- Provide staff support as needed to the Planning Division, Planning Commission, Design Review Board, Historic Resource Commission and other Town departments and divisions as assigned.
- Process a variety of development proposals and permit applications, including sign permits, variances, land-use permits, development plans, and major and minor subdivisions; ensure conformance to Town standards.
- Review applications for completeness and conformance to administrative requirements; monitor the progress of applications during the development review process.
- Perform research on a variety of planning issues; prepare and/or revise ordinances.
- Coordinate development review with other divisions of Development Services and outside agencies.
- Resolve disputes between the Town and developers/property owners.
- Respond to citizen complaints, concerns and inquiries.
- Prepare reports on a wide range of planning issues; make presentations to the Planning Commission, Design Review Board and other groups, as appropriate.
- Assist with managing the Town’s affordable housing program; aid in staffing the Town’s Design Review Board.
QUALIFICATIONS
Knowledge of:
- Practical planning methodology, urban development and operations, urban design and basic land economics; current land use and urban design implementation.
- Principles and techniques of project management.
- Development process, economics, practices and procedures.
- California development law, Town planning and zoning codes, California Environmental Quality Act and other applicable federal, state and local legislation.
- Techniques of negotiation.
Ability to:
- Demonstrate community relations skills; speak publicly and explain/interpret Town practices and objectives to the public, private agencies, and organizations as required.
- Prepare reports proposals and written materials of an analytical, budgetary, financial, technical and evaluative nature.
- Establish and maintain effective work relationships.
- Utilize computer equipment and software, including Microsoft Office Suite, and GIS.
- Attend meetings at various sites within and outside of the Town to inspect various work, building, or construction sites.
- Stoop, climb, crawl, balance, maneuver, walk and stand for long periods of time; must possess the ability to lift up to 25lbs.
EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATION
Experience:
One (1) year of experience in city or regional planning or a related field.
Education:
A Bachelor’s degree in city planning, public administration, political science, geography, urban and regional studies, or a closely related field.
LICENSE(S) AND CERTIFICATION(S)
Possession of a valid California State Driver’s License, or license in another state with the ability to obtain a California license within 30 days of hire.
