Community Development Technician

The Position:

This is a shared paraprofessional position between the Planning and Inspections Divisions that interacts heavily with the public on matters relating to planning, zoning, housing, and property conditions.

As a member of the Planning team, the position is responsible for carrying out the planning and development functions of the city by providing technical and customer service assistance for various projects being undertaken by the division.  The Planning Technician works closely with the public on a regular basis to provide customer service on planning and zoning issues.

As a member of the inspection services team the position interacts with property owners, landlords, tenants, and city officials, performs clerical, secretarial, and administrative duties in answering phones, receiving the public, data processing and bookkeeping, as well as extensive customer assistance duties.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

•    Provide technical assistance and information to staff and the public for planning and zoning related activities
•    Review zoning permit applications to assure compliance with zoning requirements
•    Perform routine office tasks including data entry, file management, copying files and documents, answering telephone, and responding to email requests
•    Assist in developing digital maps, reports, plans, and data analysis for projects being undertaken by the division.
•    Inspect properties following citizen complaints about zoning or the condition of the premises and prepare supporting documentation and reports.
•    Research and compile information on a variety of planning and zoning issues from multiple sources
•    Prepare public notices or property owner verifications
•    Prepare maps, charts, tables of limited complexity
•    Investigate violations of planning regulations and ordinances
•    Attend public meetings and assist other planning staff as appropriate
•    Create and maintain files; collect and record data of Department/Division activities and operations on a periodic basis
•    Issue various licenses, permits, etc. as assigned
•    May perform some of the duties of the Office Assistant in his or her absence
•    Perform other duties as needed/assigned.

Required Minimum Qualifications:

Education and Experience:
Associates Degree in urban planning, architecture, public policy, or related area of study and one year of planning related experience that involved frequent public interaction.  A Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited college or university in urban planning, public administration, or a related field may substitute for one year of work experience.  

Necessary Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
•    Knowledge of planning principles and practices
•    Knowledge of principles and practices of research and data collection
•    Knowledge of effective writing techniques
•    Knowledge of computer and software programs, which may include Microsoft Office, Internet applications (including use of social media), and GIS
•    Excellent creativity, enthusiasm and positive attitude in the performance of duties.
•    Ability to communicate in English; clearly, concisely, tactfully and courteously both orally and in writing.

In evaluating candidates for this position, the City may consider a combination of education, training and experience which provides the necessary knowledge, skills and abilities to perform the essential duties of the position.