Land Use Specialist

Performs intermediate professional work administering land use ordinances, assisting the public with ordinance interpretation and permitting, preparing and maintaining records and files, and related work as apparent or assigned. Work is performed under the limited supervision of the Code Administrator.

Examples of Duties

• Reviews and processes applications for permits and approvals in conformance with the applicable standards and procedures of County land use ordinances.
• Coordinates application processing and permit administration with related federal, state and local agencies.
• Educates and informs development professionals, local officials and the general public about the standards and procedures required by County land use ordinances.
• Receive and document general public concerns and issues.
• Prepares staff reports and recommendations on applications for permits and approvals for consideration by the Community Development Committee and Board of Adjustment.
• Conducts on-site field inspections to determine and document property conditions for conformance with applicable standards in County land use ordinances.
• Researches a variety of land information materials and property records to evaluate and verify property and resource conditions for conformance with applicable provisions of County land use ordinances.
• Provides necessary documentation and testimony to Corporation Counsel for litigation required for enforcement of County land use ordinances.
• Assists in the development and maintenance of application forms, databases and educational materials for the administration of County land use ordinances.
• Assists the Code Administrator, other County staff and consultants with researching, drafting and updating County plans and ordinances.
• Attends and participates in seminars and training sessions for professional development and maintenance of necessary certifications.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Thorough knowledge of ordinances governing zoning and related codes; thorough knowledge of routine legal procedures as related to law and ordinance enforcement; ability to enforce ordinances and regulations with firmness, tact and impartiality;
• ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with property owners, building contractors, County officials and the general public.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in planning, biological science, environmental science, soil science, or related field and moderate experience working in planning, zoning, public health or environmental programs, or equivalent combination of education
• and experience.
• Valid Driver’s License
• Certified Soil Tester within 6 months of hire
• Certified POWTS Inspector within  6 months of hire