Planner I- Planning and Development (Research, Data, and GIS) (Civil Service)

City of Dallas; Dallas (TX); On-site; USD 37,000 - 44,000; Full time

Job summary

The City of Dallas is expanding its Planning and Development team and seeks an entry-level Planner I to support urban development initiatives. The role emphasizes GIS-driven analysis, data interpretation, and clear communication with the public and stakeholders.

Successful candidates will combine foundational planning knowledge with GIS skills to translate complex spatial data into accessible materials for decision-making.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in planning or related field.
• Ability to analyze data and translate into reports.
• Strong communication with the public.
• Familiarity with zoning processes.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the main contact for planning office visitors; explain policies and process applications.
• Compile and analyze data to support planning proposals and reports.
• Prepare documents and presentations for staff, citizens, and groups.
• Process and ensure approvals for applications and intake forms.
• Meet with citizens and business groups to discuss problems and objectives.

Skills

Policy knowledge

Data analysis

Communication

Public engagement

Research

Education

Bachelor's degree in Planning or related field

Tools

GIS

Job description

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Job Summary

Performs a variety of entry-level professional planning and zoning tasks for urban development needs.

Job Description

Overview

The Planner I performs a wide variety of entry-level professional planning and zoning tasks for the urban development of the City.

Planner I - Planning and Development - (Research, Data, and GIS)

This Planner I position provides entry-level planning support with a focus on the application and management of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) technology, analysis, visualization, and communication of spatial data within the Planning and Development Department. This position will support staff, both internal and external, to leverage data and research to help communicate findings related to the preparation and implementation of community plans, zoning reports, and other planning initiatives. The Planner I combines foundational knowledge of planning principles with technical GIS skills and analytical abilities. The position supports both internal staff and external stakeholders by translating complex spatial data into clear, accessible materials to aid decision-making and public understanding.

Essential Functions

• Serves as the main point of contact for people that visit the planning office; explains and interprets policies and procedures related to planning applications; answers questions customers may have about zoning and other planning processes; oversees the submission of applications and creates detailed reports to present to City Planning Commission.
• Compiles and analyzes data for planning purposes in a specialty area and to assist in the formulation of sound planning and design proposals; reviews case applications and route issues to other departments for review; maintains communications with the public and various applicants to ensure effective services.
• Prepares various documents for others to present to departmental staff, citizens, and other interested groups; edits case reports and related power points; reviews material and verifies information with available datasets.
• Processes and ensures the appropriate approvals for applications and other intake forms.
• Meets with citizens and business interest groups to identify problems, goals and objectives, explain programs, and respond to questions.
• Performs any and all other work as needed or assigned.

Knowledge and Skills

• Knowledge of City policies and procedures.
• Basic knowledge of the principles, methods, and techniques of urban planning and design.
• Ability to do research in an orderly and timely manner.
• Ability to analyze data, abstract problems, and conceptualize solutions.
• Ability to understand and follow written and verbal guidelines and instructions.
• Communicating effectively verbally and in writing.
• Ability to interact with the public and peers in a positive manner.
• Establishing and maintaining effective working relationships.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree (or higher) in a Planning, Urban Studies/Design, Architecture, Public Administration, Sociology, Geography, Engineering, or related field (e.g., Historic Preservation, Architectural History, History, etc.).

License

• Some positions require valid driver's license with good driving record.

Salary Range

$27.45 - $32.58

The salary listed on this job posting is the starting salary range; amount offered will depend upon qualifications.

City of Dallas is an Equal Opportunity Employer.