Planner /GIS

Meade County, SD; Sturgis (SD); On-site; USD 33,000 - 47,000; Full time

Job summary

Meade County in Sturgis, SD seeks a Planning GIS Specialist to maintain the county's GIS data, help with planning reviews, and support 911 addressing. This role requires collaboration with multiple departments and external partners.

Responsibilities include creating maps and reports, processing permits, and assisting the public with planning and zoning inquiries. The position is full-time with benefits, serving as a key contributor to county planning and operations.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field.
• 1–2 years’ experience in planning or a similar role.
• Valid South Dakota driver’s license.
• DANR On-Site Wastewater System certification within 60 days of hire.
• ICC Certified Permit Technician within 1 year of hire.

Responsibilities

• Maintain GIS database layers and parcel data.
• Create maps, exhibits, and reports for meetings and clients.
• Coordinate with GIS provider to update online mapping.
• Review permits for compliance with ordinances and codes.
• Assist the public with permitting and platting questions.
• Investigate nuisance complaints and coordinate with law enforcement.
• Prepare data and reports for county departments.

Skills

GIS knowledge

GPS knowledge

Data analysis

Report writing

Communication skills

Software adaptation

Education

Bachelor's degree

Tools

ArcGIS

GIS databases

Excel

Job description

Meade County

Department: Planning

Posting: #26-20

Posting Type: Internal and Open Announcement

Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Starting Wage: $29.10 hour - Non-Exempt

Wage Grade: 17

Full Time Position with Benefit Package

JOB SUMMARY

Under the direct supervision of the Director of Planning, performs duties related to the maintenance of the County's Geographic Information System (GIS), planning and development review, permitting, and 911 addressing.

Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Mapping

• Creates, updates, reviews, and maintains GIS database layers and geographic data, including subdivisions, land divisions, parcels, district boundaries, city limits, and platting jurisdictions.
• Collects and compiles GIS data from various sources and prepares related reports and spreadsheets.
• Creates maps, exhibits, and presentation materials for County departments, public meetings, and external customers.
• Coordinates with the GIS software provider to maintain and update County GIS layers and information displayed on the County's online mapping website.
• Manages individual GIS subscriptions and user access.
• Assigns and corrects 911 addresses to maintain accurate addressing records.

Permitting and Development Review

• Reviews building, septic system, approach, sign and billboard, and earth disturbance permit applications for compliance with applicable ordinances, statutes, guidelines, and building codes.
• Reviews structure placement, preliminary plats, and variance requests for compliance with applicable requirements.
• Processes permit applications, verifies contractor licenses, records fees, maintains permit records, and tracks applications through the review process.
• Provides information and assistance to property owners, builders, contractors, and others regarding permitting, development review, and inspection requirements.

Nuisance Investigation and Enforcement

Investigates nuisance complaints, documents findings, issues required correspondence, and coordinates with law enforcement as needed.

Administrative and Reporting Responsibilities

• Assists the public by answering phone calls and front-counter inquiries, explaining permitting and platting processes, and providing direction to appropriate resources.
• Posts public meeting notices in accordance with county policy and state law.
• Compiles and provides data and reports to county departments and outside agencies as needed.

KNOWLEDGE REQUIRED BY THE POSITION

• Considerable knowledge of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Global Positioning Systems (GPS), including related software, hardware, and applications.
• Knowledge of applicable federal and state laws, county ordinances, and department policies and procedures related to planning, permitting, land use, building codes, inspections, nuisance enforcement, and 911 addressing.
• Knowledge of planning, development review, permitting, and code enforcement principles and practices.
• Ability to read and interpret legal descriptions, maps, plats, permits, and related documents.
• Ability to collect, analyze, and organize data and prepare reports, spreadsheets, and maps.
• Proficiency in mathematics and strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to learn and adapt to new software, technology, and systems.

SUPERVISORY CONTROLS and RESPONSIBILITIES

Works under the direct supervision of the Planning Director, who assigns work through general instructions and reviews completed work periodically for accuracy, compliance with procedures, and overall results. This position has no supervisory or management responsibilities.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS/ WORK ENVIRONMENT

The work is typically performed while sitting at a desk or table or while intermittently sitting, standing, bending, crouching, or stooping. The work is typically performed in an office and outdoors, occasionally in cold or inclement weather.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Knowledge and level of competency commonly associated with the completion of a baccalaureate degree in a course of study related to the occupational field.
• Sufficient experience to understand the basic principles relevant to the major duties of the position, usually associated with the completion of an apprenticeship/internship or having had a similar position for one to two years.
• Possession of or ability to readily obtain a valid driver’s license issued by the State of South Dakota for the type of vehicle or equipment operated.
• Certification by State of South Dakota DANR in On-Site Wastewater System within 60 days of hire.
• Certification as an ICC Certified Permit Technician within 1 year of hire.