Planner II - Research, Analysis, and Design

Baltimore County, MD; Towson (MD); On-site; USD 55,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

Baltimore County is seeking an Entry-Level GIS Planner II within the Department of Planning, Research, Analysis and Design Division. The role focuses on managing geographic information, supporting advisory committees, and contributing to planning initiatives that foster sustainable, vibrant communities.

The position emphasizes foundational GIS skills, data analysis, and effective community engagement, with responsibilities spanning map creation, report contributions, and coordination with

Qualifications

• Basic knowledge of GIS software and spatial data management practices.
• Strong organizational skills for scheduling meetings and documentation.
• Ability to analyze data and create visualizations to communicate scenarios.
• Willingness to learn and adapt to new technologies and methodologies.

Responsibilities

• Assist in collection, analysis, and management of GIS data.
• Create maps, analyze spatial data, and contribute to reports for projects.
• Provide administrative support to advisory committee activities.
• Organize meetings and maintain accurate records.
• Facilitate communication between committee, public, and stakeholders.
• Assist in development and administration of master plan and zoning policies.
• Research planning issues and present studies on land use and growth management.
• Create maps and data in line with zoning regulations and community plans.
• Conduct meetings with community groups and agencies on planning issues.
• Assist the public with planning and zoning information.
• Operate GIS and related systems for research and analysis.

Skills

GIS basics

Administrative skills

Data analysis

Scenario planning

Teamwork & adaptability

Education

Bachelor's degree

Master's degree

Tools

ArcGIS

ArcGIS Pro

ArcGIS Online

Job description

A vacancy exists within the Department of Planning, Research, Analysis and Design Division.

Pay Schedule I, Grade 29, Regular Schedule: 35 hours per week.

This job announcement may close at any time with little or no notice. Applicants are advised to apply promptly.

Definition of Responsibility

Join us in strengthening Baltimore County’s communities! As an Entry-Level GIS Planner II in the Department of Planning’s Division of Research, Analysis and Design, you will play a vital role in building and maintaining a thriving Baltimore County. We are seeking candidates who can leverage their experience, education, and technical knowledge to excel in this position.

The ideal candidate will be detail-oriented and organized. This role provides an excellent opportunity to build foundational skills in GIS and urban planning. This position will also support an advisory committee.

Join a great team dedicated to positively impacting the future of Baltimore County. As a GIS Planner II, you will help foster sustainable, vibrant communities through strategic planning and effective community engagement. If you are driven by the opportunity to create meaningful change, we invite you to join our mission.

About the Department of Planning

The Department of Planning is dedicated to implementing programs and projects that strengthen existing communities, revitalize older commercial centers, and preserve rural resources. Join our committed team and positively impact the future of Baltimore County.

The Division of Research, Analysis and Design plays a crucial role in shaping the development and implementation of projects, policies, and strategies. This section integrates various disciplines, including Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and visual design, to support informed decision-making and effective planning for Baltimore County.

Working alongside the Development Review Division and the Community Planning Division, you will provide a range of functions that enhance planners' and decision-makers' ability to analyze spatial data, visualize scenarios, and make informed decisions.

A list of eligible applicants will be established based on the examination as outlined below.

Current and future vacancies occurring in this class may be filled from the list of eligible applicants.

List all promotions and changes in job duties due to reclassification as separate work experience on your application. Applicants must include the dates of the promotions and reclassifications.

You must attach your transcript(s), and/or degree(s), and/or professional license(s) and certification(s) to your application. Unofficial copies are acceptable.

Note: You must complete all fields of the "Work Experience" section of the application. Applicants selected for an interview may provide a resume at that time.

Failure to submit proof of professional licenses, certifications, and education will result in your application not being considered. Submit proof of professional licenses, certifications, and/or education with each application.

Job Purpose

Under the general supervision of the Senior GIS Planner of the Research, Analysis and Design Division, you will manage and analyze geographic information and facilitate the effective operation of the advisory committee focused on addressing school overcrowding.

This dual role encompasses technical GIS responsibilities and administrative duties related to the advisory committee. As a key member of the Research, Analysis and Design Division in the Department of Planning, you will drive initiatives that enhance community development, foster sustainable growth, and improve residents' quality of life.

Essential Job Duties

• Assist in the collection, analysis, and management of geographic information systems (GIS) data.
• Support planning and development projects by creating maps, analyzing spatial data, and contributing to reports.
• Provide essential administrative support to ensure the smooth operation of the advisory committee’s activities.
• Organize and manage meetings and maintain accurate records.
• Facilitate communication between committee members, the public, and other stakeholders.
• Assist in the development, modification, and administration of the master plan, zoning regulations, and other policies, legislation, and guidelines affecting development.
• Researches, prepares, and presents studies of planning issues such as land use, growth management, and zoning.
• Researches petitions and issues related to the comprehensive and cyclical zoning processes.
• Creates maps and data in accordance with applicable zoning regulations and community and master plans.
• Conducts and participates in meetings with community groups, advisory groups, representatives of other County and governmental agencies, developers, and others regarding planning, zoning, and development issues.
• Assists and provides information to the public regarding planning and zoning.
• Operates a geographic information system and other automated computer systems to research and analyze various planning issues.

Examples of Other Duties

Performs other related duties as required.

NOTE: The duties and responsibilities listed above are for the purpose of determining a common set of minimum qualifications for all positions in this class. They may not include all of the essential job functions of each position in the class. Each position may not be required to perform all of the essential job functions listed.

Required Educational Qualification and Experience

Graduation from an accredited college or university with a bachelor's degree;

Plus

Three years' professional planning, zoning, development, or land use experience.

Additional planning education beyond a bachelor's degree may be substituted on a year-for-year basis for the required experience.

(Additional professional and/or paraprofessional planning, zoning, development, or land use experience may be substituted on a year-for-year basis up to a maximum of four years for the required education.)

Or

Graduation from an accredited college or university with a master's degree in planning or a related field*,

Plus

One year of professional planning, zoning, development, or land use experience.

*Related Fields such as: architecture, business administration, civil engineering, landscape architecture, law, public administration, and social sciences (e.g., economics, geography, political science, sociology, urban and/or regional affairs or studies, etc.).

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (Entry Level)

• GIS and Spatial Data: Basic knowledge of GIS software (e.g., ArcGIS, ArcGIS Pro, ArcGIS Online Apps) and spatial data management practices. Ability to perform fundamental GIS tasks and create maps and visualizations.
• Administrative and Organizational Skills: Strong ability to organize and manage administrative tasks, including scheduling meetings, preparing documentation, and handling communications. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint). Effective written and verbal communication skills for interacting with committee members, stakeholders, and the public.
• Data Analysis and Visualization: Ability to identify and interpret trends and patterns in data to forecast future scenarios. Capability to analyze numerical data related to demographics, land use, infrastructure, and other planning variables. Proficiency in creating visualizations such as maps, charts, and graphs to effectively communicate scenario outcomes and implications. Precision in data entry, map production, and meeting documentation to ensure accuracy and reliability.
• Scenario Planning:The ability to create hypothetical models to explore different planning scenarios and their potential consequences.
• Teamwork & Adaptability: Eagerness to learn and adapt to new technologies and methodologies. Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.

Proof ofLicenses, Certifications and Education

Applicants must submit proof of professional licenses, certifications, and education beyond high school to meet the required and preferred qualifications for the position. Diplomas or transcripts must show the applicant's major field of study. Copies and unofficial transcripts are acceptable.

Failure to submit proof of professional licenses, certifications, and education will result in your application not being considered.

Proof of Degree Equivalency

Applicants who have obtained a degree from outside the United States of America are required to submit degree equivalency documentation from World Education Services, Inc. (www.WES.org).

EXAMINATION PROCEDURE

Applicants will be qualified based on an evaluation of their training and experience, as stated on their application, which includes answers to the supplemental questions. Applicants must state the dates and duties of past and present experience clearly and completely for evaluation purposes.

Physical and Environmental Conditions

The work of this classification is essentially sedentary. Some positions may require fieldwork and travel between work sites.

Medical Examination and Employment Background Investigation

Applicants selected for an appointment to a position in Baltimore County must successfully complete a physical examination and drug screen and an employment background investigation, including, but not limited to a criminal background, education, and fingerprint check.