Current Assistant Planner

City of Meridian; United States; On-site; USD 39,000 - 54,000; Full time

Job summary

The City of Meridian is seeking an entry-level planning assistant to support the Current Planning team. You will help with customer inquiries, process administrative planning applications, and assist in preparing staff reports.

You will use GIS tools to create maps, review site plans, and communicate policies to the public. This role requires collaboration with multiple departments and a strong attention to detail.

Qualifications

• High School diploma plus a minimum of two years of experience in community development and/or planning field.
• Bachelor's degree in planning or a related field.
• Equivalent combination of experience, education and training which provides the knowledge, skills and abilities necessary to perform the job.

Responsibilities

• Provide front counter customer service and information about city planning policies.
• Process administrative planning applications and assist with reports and correspondence.
• Research, map, and analyze land use data using GIS software and City databases.
• Coordinate with departments and agencies to ensure timely processing of applications.

Skills

Front counter customer service

Communication

Research

Data interpretation

Education

High School diploma

Bachelor's degree in planning

Tools

ArcView

ArcGIS Pro

Accela Automation

Project Dox

Job description

Be part of a team that is making a difference in the lives of our residents every day. Together, let's shape a brighter future for our community!

Salary: $33.40 per hr.

Job Summary

This entry-level planning position processes both routine and more complex administrative-level planning and development applications while under the direction of the Current Planning Supervisor. This role also serves as the primary point of contact in assisting the general public, builders, and small business owners with questions by accurately communicating ordinances, policies and procedures. Additional responsibilities include coordinating with other departments and agencies, conducting in-depth research, making maps using GIS software, and preparing reports and other correspondences that are written in compliance with LLUPA, the City's Comprehensive Plan, and City ordinances.

Works independently and under the direction of the Current Planning Supervisor, the Deputy Director, and/or the Community Development Director; Conducts research and collects and analyzes data to produce complete, accurate and technical staff reports for administrative-level development applications, including but not limited to: sign permits, certificates of zoning compliance, design review, zoning verification letters, home occupations, alternative compliance, and accessory use permits; Coordinates with other government agencies including but not limited to: Ada County Highway District, Idaho Transportation Department, Irrigation Districts, West Ada School District, Kuna School District, Ada County, Community Planning Association of Southwest Idaho, and Republic Services to ensure compliance with regulatory standards, City and Department policies, and timely completion of processes; Interprets, applies and explains planning-related regulations, policies and procedures to the public, applicants and civic leaders; Reviews land use applications for conformity to established plans and ordinances; Reads, interprets, and reviews site plans, plats, topographic plans, landscape plans, sign company designs, and architectural plans providing comments on required changes and adjustments to plans; Confers with and advises architects, builders, attorneys, contractors, engineers, and the general public regarding City development policies, standards, and procedures; Processes multiple administrative-level applications promptly while responding to customer service needs at the front counter; Uses ArcView and associated database to research property ownership and land use information; Enters data and documents into Accela Automation and Project Dox for application review and tracking; Creates electronic maps including property owner lists and vicinity maps using ArcView and ArcGIS Pro; Provides timely, accurate and specific planning and zoning information to applicants and to the public at the front counter, via phone and through written correspondence; Conducts on-site inspections of landscaping, parking, building and other required improvements to ensure that development complies with conditions of approval; Reviews building permits for compliance with zoning ordinances and conditions of approval; Assists the Current Planning Supervisor on improving internal processes, planning code amendments, and policy development; Identifies and resolves potential conflicts before they become a problem; Demonstrates positive, solution focused attitude through optimism, decisiveness, and team decision making; Maintains a positive attitude of cooperation in performance of work assignments, including adaptability, flexibility, and proactive engagement with customers, clients and co-workers, problem-solving, decision making, resiliency, organization and time management; Provides outstanding customer service by communicating respect, being open-minded, having a spirit of collaboration, and calmly resolving conflict with individuals that may be upset or angry; Develops and uses empathetic listening skills; Demonstrates good judgment and initiative to interpret and apply City policies and procedures; Provides excellent oral, written, and graphic communication with co-workers, customers and supervisor; Demonstrates integrity in the performance of assigned tasks; Works with Current Planning Supervisor on a training program for employee's professional development; Attends continued education conferences, workshops, and other training opportunities to remain current with planning and/or development trends; Performs other duties as assigned or needed.

Job Specifications

1) High School diploma plus a minimum of two years of experience in community development and/or planning field; or 2) Bachelor's degree in planning or a related field; or 3) equivalent combination of experience, education and training which provides the knowledge, skills and abilities necessary to perform the job.

Licensing & Certifications

Possession of a valid Idaho driver's license and a safe driving record is required. If selected for employment, out-of-state candidates must obtain a valid Idaho driver's license within 30 days after the date of hire.

If you like wild growth and working with happy, enthusiastic over-achievers, you'll enjoy your career with us!

Equal Opportunity and Diversity Statement

City of Meridian is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, national origin or ancestry, sex, age, physical or mental disability, veteran or military status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, military status, order of protection status, or any other legally recognized protected basis under federal, state, or local law.

The City of Meridian is unable to provide visa sponsorship at this time. This includes, but is not limited to, H-1B and F-1 visa categories. Candidates must possess valid work authorization in the United States that does not require employer sponsorship.

The City of Meridian's mission is simple: to ensure the well-being and prosperity of our residents. We strive to uphold the highest standards of customer service, accountability, respect, and excellence in all our endeavors. Guided by equity, transparency, and fairness, we work tirelessly to meet the diverse needs of our community. Our dedicated team tackles complex challenges with innovative solutions, from enhancing infrastructure to promoting sustainability. We're committed to building a prosperous and sustainable future. Collaboration lies at the heart of our approach. By partnering with residents, businesses, and stakeholders, we foster dialogue and cooperation to drive positive change. Driven by a deep sense of responsibility, we listen, advocate, and act in the public's best interest. Together, we can build a stronger, more resilient society where every voice is heard and every individual has the opportunity to thrive.

Join us and be part of a team that is making a difference in the lives of our residents every day.