JOB DESCRIPTION

The Development Services Planner I/II is a dynamic, fast-paced position responsible for reviewing and guiding a wide variety of development projects that directly shapes how the City of Cedar Rapids evolves. From evaluating site plans and subdivisions to supporting long-range planning initiatives, this role is central to delivering high-quality, well-planned growth.

This position regularly interacts with developers, business owners, residents, and City staff, making it ideal for someone who enjoys collaboration, problem-solving, and balancing multiple priorities. The Planner I/II helps ensure projects are both compliant and aligned with the City of Cedar Rapids goals, while providing a high level of customer service throughout the development process.

Planner I focuses on developing core competencies, while Planner II will have increased complexity and diversity of the planning developed by individuals in this classification.

About our Organization

At the City, we are committed to employing individuals who reflect our community's diverse backgrounds and this position is crucial in the success and strategic direction of a growing and evolving community. We appreciate and leverage the vast experience individuals bring beyond the technical requirements of a job. If you are an individual with similar experience listed here please consider applying. Experience and skills combined with commitment to our core values is key to building a greater community now and for the next generation.

About our Community

Nestled in the heart of Iowa, Cedar Rapids is our vibrant and diverse community known for its rich history, culture, and natural beauty. Our city has a strong sense of community which can be seen at any of our numerous parks, recreational opportunities, and family-friendly events year round. You can also explore our thriving downtown district, filled with shops, restaurants, and entertainment options, or take a stroll along the Cedar River, which runs through the heart of the city. Cedar Rapids - Why you should live here!

About this Opportunity

Manages commercial development projects from plan review to final site inspections for compliance with zoning requirements. Authorizes Building Permit and Certificate of Occupancy issuance.

The City of Cedar Rapids does not offer sponsorship for employment authorization.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

Job Duties and Responsibilities

• Reviews site plans, plats, rezoning, and conditional use requests for compliance with zoning requirements.
• Coordinates preparation of staff plan reviews. Reviews reports and conducts staff meetings with developers.
• Develops reports for and delivers presentations of rezoning, conditional use, design exception, and variance requests to respective reviewing bodies.
• Responds to requests for information concerning the platting and zoning application process, requirements, and regulations and ordinances.
• Coordinates Building Permit and Certificate of Occupancy approvals and inspections.
• Represents the City in pre-construction conferences and provides platting and zoning compliance guidelines.
• Develops and maintains databases and reports of current and historical platting, zoning, and site development activities.
• Assists customers at the permit counter as needed.
• Performs related work as required.

Qualifications

Required Education and Experience

Planner I

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in Public Administration, Urban Planning, or a related field, and up to 1 year of related experience in planning or public administration

OR

• An equivalent combination of education and/or experience
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office
• Ability to work collaboratively with a diverse population

Planner II

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in Public Administration, Urban Planning, or a related field, and three (3) to five (5) year of experience interpreting and applying platting and zoning regulations. Experience with blueprint and plan reviews. Proficient with various database, document, and presentation creation applications

OR

• An equivalent combination of education and/or experience
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office
• Ability to work collaboratively with a diverse population

Supplemental Information

Work Schedule

Monday - Friday 8:00am to 5:00pm

Salary Range:

Planner I
$61,484.80 - $82,992.00

Planner II
$65,769.60 - $88.816.00

Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Statement

The City of Cedar Rapids is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All job applicants will receive consideration for employment free from discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, or gender identity), national origin, age (40 or older), disability and genetic information (including family medical history).

Applicants with Disabilities

We respect and value people with disabilities and are committed to providing a workplace culture of disability inclusion. People with disabilities are supported during the hiring process and are encouraged to apply for employment with the City of Cedar Rapids. In support of the Americans with Disabilities Act, reasonable accommodations will be provided to those in need of assistance with the application and interview process. To request an accommodation, contact the City's Human Resources department by phone at 319-286-5000 or by email at hr@cedar-rapids.org.

BENEFITS

Benefit information is listed on the posting when you apply.