Planner I, (A262110-2), 205, Planning and Zoning

City of Laredo; Laredo (TX); On-site; USD 42,000 - 64,000; Full time

Job summary

The City of Laredo seeks an urban planning professional to assist in administering zoning and subdivision applications, coordinating with the Planning Department, and maintaining planning records. Strong GIS, data analysis, and public‑facing communication skills are required.

The role supports city planning initiatives and collaborates with staff and external agencies. Requirements include a relevant bachelor’s degree, Texas driver license, and the ability to work with bilingual communities.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Urban Studies, Public Administration, Architecture, GIS, or related field.
• Valid Texas Driver License; driving record required.
• Background check and certified transcripts required for employment.
• Ability to communicate in English and Spanish.

Responsibilities

• Assist in administration of zoning and subdivision applications and replats.
• Prepare comments for Planning Department for Planning & Zoning Commission.
• Maintain plats/files and update relevant databases.
• Coordinate with staff and outside agencies; prepare reports and minutes.

Skills

Urban planning

GIS

Public speaking

Data analysis

Report writing

Education

Bachelor's degree in Urban Studies/Public Admin/GIS/Architecture

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Assists in the administration of all current planning activities including applications for change in zoning and subdivision plats and replats; conducts current planning administrative services in a manner consistent with good planning practices that will ensure the implementation of the City's comprehensive plan.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

The intent of this job description is to provide a representative summary of the major duties and responsibilities performed by employees in this job. Employees may be requested to perform job-related tasks other than those specifically presented in this description.

• Answers questions from the public concerning subdivisions requirements and zoning issues; ensures information is provided in an accurate, complete and timely manner.
• Receives applications; checks the completeness of each application and assembles the files.
• Distributes the agenda to Planning and Zoning Commission members.
• Prepares written comments from the Planning Department for the Planning and Zoning Commission subdivision plats with the Planning Director.
• Writes the minutes from the previous Planning & Zoning Commission; prepares map for plat communications and some zoning cases.
• Updates the files for plats by inserting communications and minutes; updates database on the status of plats going to the Planning & Zoning Commission.
• Copies, collates and binds committee information packets and ensures the accuracy and completeness of the same.
• Assists in the preparation of committee meetings by setting up refreshments, nameplates or audio recording equipment.
• Collects the required signatures on approved plats; takes the plats to the County clerk to be recorded; collects copies from engineering files; records copies and maintains data file on the status of approved plats.
• Assigns drafting and copying tasks to support staff; monitors their work for accuracy and completeness.
• Prepares ordinance necessary to improve the efficiency of subdivision plat procedures.
• Coordinates, plans, schedules, and assigns work to support staff; instructs and trains in correct methods and procedures.
• Uses GIS and other data sources, to research and analyze information in the development and planning reports.
• Maintains, updates, and files all pertinent logs, information cards, tapes, and other records and documents daily.
• Assists in maintaining good communication between staff, visitors, and other business contacts.
• Must follow all rules of telephone courtesy in all radio and telephone communications.
• Will be required to drive a City vehicle for City business use.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

COMPETENCIES FOR SUCCESSFUL PERFORMANCE OF JOB DUTIES

Knowledge of:

• Knowledge of the principles, techniques, and objectives of all phases of urban planning.
• Knowledge of the principles and practices of public agency planning.
• Knowledge of federal, state and local laws, regulations, and ordinances pertaining to planning and urban development.
• Knowledge of budgeting procedures and techniques.
• Knowledge of utilizing sources data.
• Knowledge of statistical research and reporting methods, techniques, and procedures.

Skills and Abilities:

• Skills in MicrosoftOffice, GIS (Geographic Information System) software, and graphic design concepts.
• Skills in giving public presentations.
• Ability to perform statistical analysis of demographic data.
• Ability to coordinate and manage the review of complex projects.
• Ability to communicate clearly and effectively, both verbally and in writing.
• Ability to speak before public groups and make presentations to the Planning & Zoning Commission and Mayor & City Council.
• Ability to read and interpret plans, drawings, and field notes.
• Ability to analyze and interpret zoning and subdivision maps.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers, management, and the general public.
• Ability to coordinate with and effectively work with outside agencies, groups, and individuals.
• Ability to prepare accurate, concise, and detailed reports.
• Ability to apply technical skills in the area of land use regulation, particularly Texas zoning and subdivision regulation.
• Ability to work with the general public, other governmental agencies, and elected officials.
• Ability to communicate clearly and effectively, both orally and in writingin the English and Spanish languages.
• Ability to perform all the physical requirements of the position.
• Ability to maintain a valid Texas Driver License and a good driving record.
• Required to comply with all City of Laredo's policies and procedures.
• Ability to project a positive and professional image of the City of Laredo.
• Ability to maintain good health and physical condition sufficient to permit the full performance of the duties of the position.

WORK ENVIRONMENT/CONDITIONS AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Physical Effort Requirements

Position will have the following exposures

• Occasional exposure to unpleasant environmental conditions and/or hazards. Occasional outside work.
• Exerting up to 10 pounds of force occasionally, a negligible amount of force frequently, and/or constantly having to lift, carry, push, pull, or otherwise move objects, including the human body. Sedentary work involves sitting most of the time. Jobs are sedentary if walking and standing are required only occasionally, and all other sedentary criteria are met.

Work Environment Locations

Position will require the employee to work in the following types of work environments

Seldom

• Street environment (near moving traffic)
• Construction site
• Warehouse environment

Sometimes

• Outdoor environment
• Vehicles

Often

• Office or similar indoor environment
• Confined space

Exposures

Position will require the employee to be exposed to the following environmental elements

Never

• Extreme cold (below 32 degrees)
• Moving mechanical parts
• Fumes or airborne particles
• Toxic or caustic chemicals or substances
• Loud noises (85+ decibels such as heavy trucks, jack hammers, construction)

Seldom

• Individuals with known violent backgrounds

Sometimes

• Individuals who are hostile or irate
• Extreme heat (above 100 degrees)
• Communicable diseases

Travel

Position will require the employee to travel

Never:

• International travel

Seldom:

• National travel

Sometimes:

• Local travel
• Regional travel

Required Education and Experience

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in Urban Studies, Public Administration, Architecture, GIS, or related field.

Required Licenses or Certifications

• Valid Texas Driver License. If applicant holds an out-of-state license, a State of Texas Driver License must be obtained within 6 months of employment.

As part of the minimum requirements for all positions with the City of Laredo, a thorough background check and certified school transcripts will be required from all applicants who are offered employment.

Effective February 24, 1997, all selected applicants are required to undergo a drug and alcohol test prior to employment.

Effective January 7, 2008, all persons in safety-sensitive functions/positions, as per City of Laredo Drug and Alcohol Policy definition, shall be subject to random drug and alcohol testing.

A person with a disability who needs a reasonable accommodation related to a selection process is requested to contact the Human Resources Department at [phone] two days prior to the scheduled interview and/or test if applicable.

City of Laredo is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action/Pro Disabled and Veteran Employer. We welcome differences in the form of gender, race, ethnicity, disability, geography, socioeconomic status, age, politics, religion, philosophy, sexual orientation, or gender identity. All applicants who share this goal are encouraged to apply. Must be able to function in a principle-based organization that has a culture built on character and core values.