JOB TITLE: Chief Planner                                                                                           

JOB SUMMARY:  This position performs supervisory and planning duties in support of the department.

Advises developers and the general public in regards to requirements and protocols.

Writes code amendments; prepares ordinances for code amendments and rezoning.

Performs legal research; designs case strategies for various zoning related applications.

Reviews applications for completeness, accuracy and compliance with codes.

Researches and verifies adjoining property owners; prepares adjoining property owner notices.

Prepares legal ads for publication; ensures the placement of rezoning notice signs.

Prepares case write ups and supporting documentation.

Prepares Planning Board and Board of Adjustment information packets; makes presentations to the Planning Board, Board of Adjustments, and City Council; writes Board of Adjustment orders.

Maintains appropriate files and records.

Trains, assigns, directs, supervises, evaluates, and disciplines personnel.

Assists in the supervision and interpretation of the City’s zoning code, subdivision regulations, floodplain ordinances, and other land use regulations.

Develops recommendations for current and long term planning projects; prepares technical studies and reports.

Conducts training sessions on topics relating to planning issues.

Performs other related duties as assigned.

Knowledge of the principles and practices of city planning.

Knowledge of GIS applications, including ArcView, ArcMap, and ArcInfo.

Knowledge of department and city policies and procedures and federal, state, and local codes, laws and regulations.

Knowledge of research methodology and standard statistical procedures.

Skill in the operation of computers and other standard office equipment.

Skill in planning, organization, and decision making.

Skill in public speaking and public relations.

Skill in oral and written communication.

SUPERVISORY CONTROLS:  The Director assigns work in terms of department goals and objectives.  The work is reviewed through conferences, reports, and observation of department activities.

GUIDELINES:  Guidelines include department standard operating procedures, zoning ordinances, subdivision regulations, North Carolina General Statutes, the Growth Plan, Thoroughfare Plan, Airport Zoning Ordinance, and relevant city, state, and federal codes, laws, and regulations.  These guidelines require judgment, selection, and interpretation in application.

COMPLEXITY:  The work consists of varied administrative and technical duties. 

SCOPE AND EFFECT:  The purpose of this position is to perform technical planning duties for the city.  Successful performance facilitates and promotes well planned city development and growth.

PERSONAL CONTACTS:  Contacts are typically with co-workers, other city employees, elected officials, vendors, builders and contractors, attorneys, property owners, and the general public.

PURPOSE OF CONTACTS:  Contacts are typically to give or exchange information, resolve problems, provide services, and negotiate or settle matters.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:  The work is typically performed while sitting at a desk or table, or while intermittently sitting, standing, or walking.  The employee occasionally lifts light objects, and must distinguish between shades of color.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:  The work is typically performed in an office and outdoors, and occasionally in cold or inclement weather. 

SUPERVISORY AND MANAGEMENT RESPONSIBILITY:  The position has direct supervision over Planner (1).

Knowledge and level of competency commonly associated with the completion of a master's degree in a course of study related to the occupational field.

Experience sufficient to thoroughly understand the diverse objectives and functions of the subunits in the division/department in order to direct and coordinate work within the division/department, usually interpreted to require three to five years of related experience.

Possession of or ability to readily obtain a valid driver's license issued by the State of North Carolina for the type of vehicle or equipment operated.