City Planner

NYC Department of Social Services; All (MO); On-site; USD 50,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a forward-thinking agency that plays a crucial role in the City’s land use and development regulations. This position involves managing applications for zoning variances, analyzing compliance documents, and collaborating with various stakeholders to ensure effective urban planning. Ideal candidates will have a strong educational background in urban planning or related fields, along with practical experience in city planning. You'll engage with community boards and civic groups, making a tangible impact on development across the city. If you're passionate about shaping urban environments and have the skills to navigate complex regulations, this opportunity is perfect for you.

Benefits

Federal Student Loan Forgiveness Eligibility

Diversity and Inclusion Commitment

NYC Residency Requirement Exceptions

Qualifications

• 2 years of full-time city planning experience required.
• Graduate coursework may substitute for experience.

Responsibilities

• Manage applications for variances and special permits.
• Analyze environmental review documents for compliance.
• Collaborate with agencies on technical reviews.

Skills

Urban Planning

Communication Skills

Presentation Skills

Technical Report Writing

GIS Software

Education

Baccalaureate Degree

Graduate Studies in Architecture or City Planning

Tools

Computer Graphics Software

Job description

The NYC Board of Standards and Appeals is a key part of the City’s land use, development, and construction regulation system. It is an independent body that grants relief to landowners facing restrictions under the City’s zoning resolution and building code, impacting development across all five boroughs.

The Board reviews zoning variance and special permit applications, hears appeals related to decisions by the Department of Buildings and Fire Department, and handles revocations or modifications of certificates of occupancy, along with waivers from laws like the Multiple Dwelling Law and the General City Law.

Responsibilities:

1. Manage applications for variances and special permits, coordinating with applicants, Board staff, city agencies, community boards, and the public.
2. Analyze environmental review documents for CEQR compliance.
3. Collaborate with agencies on technical reviews including transportation, air quality, noise, hazardous materials, and historic resources.
4. Assist applicants with technical information and document preparation.
5. Conduct land use, finance, and real estate research, and prepare reports and graphics for the Board Chair.
6. Represent the Board in meetings with civic groups, community boards, and public agencies.
7. Perform other related duties as needed.

Applicants must currently hold or be reachable on the City Planner civil service list for consideration.

Minimum Qualifications:

1. Baccalaureate degree and two years of full-time city planning experience, or
2. An equivalent combination of education and experience. Graduate coursework in relevant fields may substitute for experience at a rate of 30 credits per year, but a baccalaureate degree is mandatory.

Special Qualification Requirements:

For Assignment Level III, an additional year of experience is required; for Level IV, two additional years are necessary.

Preferred Skills:

• Degree from an accredited college with at least two years of urban planning experience.
• Graduate studies in architecture, city planning, or related fields can substitute for up to two years of experience.
• Strong presentation, communication, zoning, and technical report skills.
• Experience with zoning studies, building plans, GIS, and computer graphics software.
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple projects, and engage with community stakeholders.

This position is open to qualified individuals under the 55a Program for persons with disabilities. Please specify this preference in your application materials.

Employees may be eligible for federal student loan forgiveness programs. For details, visit https://studentaid.gov/pslf/.

NYC residency is generally required within 90 days of employment, with some exceptions for current City employees.

The City of New York is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion, prohibiting discrimination based on protected characteristics.