JOB DESCRIPTION

Primary Objective of Position

Participate in a broad range of planning and zoning efforts, including development and redevelopment activities, site plan review, interpretation of zoning and subdivision codes, research and background studies, long range planning, and occasionally assist with zoning code enforcement.

Major Areas of Responsibility

Participate in the coordination, review and evaluation of proposed development plans.

• Review applications for conditional use permits, variances, site plans and site plan amendments, etc. and work with applicants on necessary requirements.
• Coordinate development review with other city departments, including public works/engineering, parks, public safety, and administration
• Prepare staff reports and present recommendations to the Planning Commission and City Council.
• Conduct research and analysis relative to current development proposals, and other assigned projects based upon appropriate plans, policies and ordinances.
• Track applications in accordance with requirements and law.

Respond to resident, business, and developer inquiries.

• Answer phone calls, emails, and in-person questions at the planning counter.
• Assist residents with understanding city codes, zoning regulations, and city processes.
• Assist developers with determining land use application process and requirements.

Research and analyze updates to the City's Comprehensive Plan, Small Area Plans, and Zoning Ordinance.

• Assist in annual Zoning Ordinance update.
• Research and process amendments based on Planning Commission work plan.
• Assist with drafting, updating, and implementation of small area plans.

Perform other duties and responsibilities as apparent or assigned.

• Attend neighborhood, Planning Commission and City Council meetings and make public presentations to a wide variety of diverse individuals.
• Meet with applicants and residents on inquiries concerning city land use plans, policies, ordinances, and development review procedures.
• Keep informed of planning and development practices, trends, and innovations.
• Perform site inspections for development projects, landscaping plans, and tree installation with new homes.
• Assist in processing escrow releases.
• Assist with website updates and public notices on upcoming projects.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in urban planning or related field
• 1 year related experience in planning or community development related activities.
• Proven public speaking and presentation abilities and experience.
• Ability to develop and maintain positive and effective working relationships with councils, commissions, staff, residents, organizations, and the general public.
• Ability to organize and coordinate support from coworkers and legal counsel as required to complete planning activities.
• Ability to communicate effectively via phone, email, written correspondence and in person.
• Computer skills, including word processing, spreadsheet, and presentation software.
• Experience with site plan review, including ability to apply zoning and subdivision codes to development and redevelopment projects.
• Knowledge of zoning techniques and principles.
• Ability to organize and work on a variety of projects/tasks at the same time.
• Demonstrated ability to perform in accordance with the City of Plymouth's CIVIC values (customer focus, integrity, visionary, inclusion and connection) and comfort with supporting and advancing the city council's strategic priorities.

Desired Qualifications

• 2 years closely related experience in planning related activities.
• Master's degree in urban planning, landscape architecture, architecture, geography or closely related field.
• American Institute of Certified Planners membership.
• GIS skills (basic mapping, queries, editing, and research capabilities)
• Knowledge of local, state and federal planning laws and regulations.
• Experience working with multicultural groups, including international work or travel experience
• Ability to speak a second language, in addition to English

BENEFITS

• The City of Plymouth offers comprehensive insurance benefits, including medical, HRA and FSA accounts, dental, life, disability, and vision insurance, and an Employee Assistance Program.
• Retirement options include PERA pensions and deferred compensation plans.
• Employees also receive paid time off, earned sick and safe time, and extended illness leave.
• Benefits vary based on labor agreements and position FTE status.