Application deadline: October 16, 2013
*Starting salary is dependent upon qualifications, but in most cases is no higher than the midpoint for the range.
NATURE OF WORK :
The position of Neighborhood and Land Use Planner is responsible for performing complex professional, administrative, technical, regulatory and programmatic functions that are the responsibility of Planning and Zoning Division. The incumbent engages in creating policy options for consideration, development of recommendations to senior staff and boards and commissions, prepares reports, implements approved policy and codes, process management, technical assistance, process improvement and customer service. The primary focus of this position is to develop neighborhood land use plans and programs, be the primary staff person to update the City’s Comprehensive Plan, manage and assist on planned development applications and to implement land use regulations. Multiple boards, commissions and committees will be staffed by this position.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS (Specific assignment will include some or all of the following):
- Compiles and analyzes data on economic, social, and physical factors affecting land use, and prepares or requisitions graphic and narrative reports on data.
- Confers with local authorities, civic leaders, land planners and private development entities to devise and recommend arrangements of land and physical facilities for residential, commercial, commercial, and community uses.
- Recommends governmental strategies affecting land use, public utilities, community facilities, and housing and transportation to control and guide community development.
- Coordinates services/programs, for the revitalization of specific neighborhoods.
- Staffs, coordinates and facilitates the Plan Commission and works with elected officials.
- Staffs Plan Commission and subcommittees of the Plan Commission and records, prepares and distributes minutes and agendas for the Plan Commission.
- Assists and manage the completion of zoning analyses, analyzes and drafts reports for special uses, planned developments, variations and performs other functions as needed including resident and business customer service.
- Staffs customer service functions for historic preservation services in the absence of Preservation Coordinator.
- Provides applicants with required forms and determines application completeness.
- Tracks and maintains data via computer database system including Permitting and Licensing (PAL) software.
- Attends evening meetings as required for the Plan Commission, City Council Planning and Development Committee, Zoning Board of Appeals and neighborhood meetings.
- Responds to requests for information and technical assistance from public, citizens, various professionals including architects, contractors, realtors, lawyers, etc. as well as from other internal divisions and departments.
- Other duties and functions as assigned.
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS OF WORK :
- Possession of a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in Community/Urban Planning or similar discipline, Master’s Degree preferred; and at least 2-4 years of progressively responsible experience in community planning including experience with land use planning, land use regulations, zoning and historic preservation.
- Skilled in the use of personal computers and related software applications specifically, Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Access.
- Considerable knowledge of and ability to use web-based applications, databases, Geographic Information System (GIS) and PAL/Accela system.
- Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide all units of measure, perform the four operations with like or common decimal fractions, compute ratio, rate, and percent; draw and interpret graphs; perform arithmetic operations involving all American monetary units.
- Capability to perform a large volume of numerical detailed work accurately, to make difficult mathematical computations with mechanical assistance, and to understand and follow complex oral and written instructions including technical terminology.
- Ability to process theory and process of land use regulations as administered by local municipalities throughout the U.S.
- Ability to work with and relate to a diverse group of citizens from varying socioeconomic and ethnic backgrounds.
- Ability to facilitate meetings and lead special project teams.
- Excellent organizational and project management skills.
- Excellent oral, written and interpersonal communication skills in dealing with individuals and groups at all levels.
- Read, understand, and interpret scientific and technical journals, manuals, ordinances, policies and procedures, ordinances, statues, rules, regulations, newspapers, memos, letters, abstracts, financial reports, and legal documents.
- Speak before audiences with poise, voice control, and confidence; using proper grammar and vocabulary appropriate to the audience.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS OF WORK :
The ability to work in a primarily sedentary position, with the ability to occasionally use force to exert up to 10 pounds. The ability to lift, carry or otherwise move objects, books, materials, etc. using up to 25 pounds of force frequently, and/or a negligible amount of force constantly to move objects.
The employee is subject to inside environmental conditions: protection from weather conditions, but not necessarily from indoor temperature changes.
There are no environmental hazards associated with this classification.
NECESSARY SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS :
Valid Illinois driver’s license and safe driving record; use of own vehicle.
SUPERVISION :
The Neighborhood and Land Use Planner reports to the Director of Community Development, or his designee, who outlines work assignments, reviews work in progress, and completed work and works closely with all relevant departments to assist in the processing of community, land use and zoning related issues and policies. Employee is expected to provide leadership to all City departments in achieving neighborhood and land use administration. Guidance is provided via the strategic plan, comprehensive plan, City Code, City policies, zoning ordinance and procedures, applicable state and federal laws and regulations, ensuring that initiatives are met. Work is evaluated at least annually with respect to progress toward achieving goals, leadership, communication skills, customer service, ability to work productively and effectively with employees at all levels in the organization as well as elected and appointed officials, community groups and the general public.
PUBLIC CONTACT :
The employee has regular and frequent contact with department and division employees and other City employees; regular contact with individual citizens and groups, including elected officials.
SELECTION METHOD
TYPE OF ELIGIBILITY LIST
LIFE OF ELIGIBILITY LIST
Structured Oral Interview
Category Group
Two Years
Qualifications Assessment
To apply for this position, please apply online at www.cityofevanston.org on or before the closing date.
Chosen candidates will be subject to a qualifying pre-employment medical examination and drug/alcohol screen.
The City of Evanston is committed to making all public meetings accessible to persons with disabilities. Any citizen needing mobility or communications access assistance should contact the Facilities Management Office at 847-866-2916 (voice) or 847-448-8052 (TTY). |
