Under the general direction of the City Manager or their designee, the City Planner oversees the functions of the City of Athens Planning and Zoning Department, including zoning, platting, addressing, request for variances and special projects.

Essential Job Functions:

Essential functions may include any of the following representative duties. This is not a comprehensive listing of all functions and duties performed by incumbents of this class; employees may be assigned duties which are not listed below; reasonable accommodations will be made as required. The job description does not constitute an employment agreement and is subject to change at any time by the employer. Essential duties and responsibilities may include, but are not limited to, the following:

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Administration

•    Oversee the daily operations of the Planning and Zoning Department. 

•    Develop, plan and implement goals and objectives relating to department operations.

•    Recommend and administer policies and procedures. 

•    Comply with all written department and City policies and procedures.

•    Assist with the execution of the City’s Comprehensive Plan and future plan updates.

•    Assign 911 addresses within the City. 

•    Maintain the official Zoning Map of the City of Athens. 

•    Present zoning cases and ordinance revisions to the Planning and Zoning Commission and the City Council. 

Public Relations

•    Respond to complaints and requests for information.

•    Represent the City in meetings with individuals, community groups, professional organizations, and leaders to determine the needs and issues of the community. 

Other Duties

•    Research and prepare statistical analysis and management level reports as needed. 

•    Attend meetings, conferences and training. 

•    Ensure required reports are submitted to regulatory entities.

•    Perform other related duties as assigned by the Director of Development. 

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

•    Knowledge of applicable laws, rules, regulations, ordinances and codes pertaining to planning and zoning, and the subdivision of land.

•    Knowledge of platting laws and regulations.

•    Knowledge of principles and practices addressing for emergency services.

•    Knowledge of building codes.

•    Skill in making decisions in accordance with laws, regulations and policies. 

•    Skill in effective oral and written communication.

•    Skill in preparing and delivering presentations.

•    Skill in researching and compiling information.

•    Skill in resolving citizen complaints and concerns.

•    Skill in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships.

•    Skill in multitasking. 

•    Skill in plan review.

•    Ability to be punctual and regular in attendance.

•    Ability to meet the physical requirements necessary to safely and effectively perform the assigned duties.