The City of Oak Forest Community Development Department is seeking applicants for the position of Community Planner. The community planner is a professional/technical level position that provides staff support to the Director of Community & Economic Development, the Assistant Director of Community & Economic Development, and Planning & Zoning Commission. The position reports to the Director of Community & Economic Development
Illustrative Examples of Work
As a community development professional, work is performed utilizing independent judgment and necessary coordinated resources.
Examples of work include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Responsible for the processing and conducting land use evaluation of zoning petitions for special use permits, variations, rezoning, planned developments, text amendments, subdivisions, and annexations.
- Responsible for processing and conducting review of petitions for subdivisions for compliance with the City’s subdivision ordinance, as well as related land use analysis.
- Coordinates interdepartmental review process of zoning and subdivision petitions and ensure proper and coordinated communications.
- Prepare staff recommendations pertaining to the review of zoning and subdivision petitions.
- Serves as a staff liaison to the Planning and Zoning Commission. Providing the commission with staff reports, data, and presentations.
- Assist homeowners, developers and builders with technical requests, zoning interpretations and other required assistance.
- Undertake research and zoning studies and makes appropriate recommendations for zoning amendments and procedural changes.
- Perform special projects for the Director and Assistant Director.
- Perform other duties as may be assigned.
Required Knowledge, Skill and Ability
- Knowledge of the principles of land use planning and zoning.
- Knowledge of local government organization and internal function.
- Ability to effectively communicate verbally and through written means.
- Ability to enforce zoning and development codes with firmness and tact.
- Ability to effectively manage and prioritize multiple projects and work as part of a team.
- Ability to work autonomously, managing tasks without constant supervision.
- Have a proactive and problem-solving orientation.
Required Experience and Training
· A minimum of two years of full-time experience in a municipal planning department or closely related environment is required. Internship in a municipal planning department may be used as a criterion for the required experience.
· A bachelor’s degree in planning, geography or a closely related field is required. A master’s degree in planning, geography or a closely related field is highly desired.
· AICP certification is preferred.
· Proficiency in the use of standard office software and technology required.
Physical Demands of Position
The physical demands listed here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential duties of the job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential duties.
Work is performed in an indoor, office setting. While performing the duties of the job the employee is frequently required to walk, stand, talk and hear. The duties require the use of hands to operate computers, telephone and office equipment. Due to prolonged computer use, close vision and the ability to focus are required. The employee may occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.
Starting salary: $65,371-$88,443 DOQ. This is a full time, non-union position and includes excellent benefit options including medical, dental and vision insurances. Other benefits include paid vacation, sick, and holiday time as well as contributions to the Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund.
Application deadline: November 29, 2024.
Candidates must apply by November 29, 2024 with completed application, cover letter, and resume to the attention of Bridget Parfitt, Human Resource Manager, City of Oak Forest, 15440 S. Central Avenue, Oak Forest, IL 60452. bparfitt@oak-forest.org.
The City of Oak Forest is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the city will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.