Planning Technician

City of Wilson; Wilson (NC); On-site; USD 39,000 - 54,000; Full time

Job summary

The City of Wilson seeks an experienced administrator to support the Land Development Team with planning and permits coordination. The role involves project management, calendar management, and preparing materials for boards and commissions.

Qualifications include at least 3 years of progressive office experience, proficiency in MS Office, and familiarity with permitting software. A NC driver's license and notary within 90 days are preferred.

Qualifications

• Minimum 3 years of progressive office supervision/management experience.
• Experience supporting Land Development Team and permitting work.
• Experience with permitting and project management software preferred.
• Possession of or ability to obtain NC driver's license.
• Possession of or ability to obtain Notary Public in NC within 90 days.

Responsibilities

• Proficient in computer technology and systems.
• Manage projects using current software to support Land Development Team.
• Review, process and approve permit applications daily.
• Maintain the calendar, schedule appointments and meetings.
• Prepare agendas and minutes for boards and commissions.
• Prepare graphic displays and presentations for staff.
• Train and serve as backup to Permit Technicians as needed.
• Compose routine correspondence.
• Research and analyze data from special projects and reports.
• Maintain manuals and update resources.

Skills

Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite

Project management

Communication skills

Organizational skills

Education

3+ years of progressive office/land development experience

Tools

AS/400

Central Square

Cityworks

Job description

https://vimeo.com/1029357272?share=copy

Wilson is a city of around 50,000 people located in the heart of eastern North Carolina. We are about an hour from the Research Triangle and the buzz of the Raleigh area, and you can also quickly reach the North Carolina beaches.

The City of Wilson is known for innovation and outstanding service. We have top-rated, nationally accredited police, fire and recreation departments. Our parks and sports facilities are among the best in the nation, and our Vollis Simpson Whirligig Park is a unique and beautiful attraction that hosts concerts, farmers markets and the N.C. Whirligig Festival among other events. Our downtown ballpark proudly serves as the home of the Milwaukee Brewers minor league affiliate. The team celebrated its inaugural Opening Night on April 14, 2026, marking an exciting new chapter for our community and downtown district.

Wilson has the strongest manufacturing base in our part of the state, including tire manufacturing, pharmaceutical and other industries. The Greenlight citywide broadband services help technology-based companies flourish.

In addition to competitive salaries, we offer a best-in-class benefits package that brings additional value to your total compensation. To learn more about our benefits package, click on the ‘Benefits’ tab above.

The hiring range for this position is $38,903.97 (minimum salary) to $53,576.68 (midpoint of range) dependent upon qualifications.

The purpose of this position is to perform administrative planning duties in support of Development Services, specifically with the Land Development Team. Successful performance facilitates and promotes well organized current planning.

The work consists of varied administrative duties. The unique nature of each case contributes to the complexity of the work.

Major Duties

• Proficient in computer technology and systems.
• Perform project management through current software system to support Land Development Team.
• Review, process and approve various permit applications on daily basis.
• Maintains the calendar, schedules appointments, and makes necessary meeting arrangements.
• Responds to inquiries from development community and the general public regarding land usage, zoning codes, and related ordinances.
• Maintains appropriate files and records.
• Provides secretarial support to boards and commissions including preparing the agenda, assembling background materials, sending meeting notices, and taking minutes of the meetings as assigned.
• Prepares necessary graphic displays and presentations for staff.
• Ability to train and serve as a backup to the Permit Technicians as needed.
• Composes routine correspondence not requiring the department manager’s personal attention.
• Researches, compiles, and analyzes data from special projects and various reports.
• Maintains manuals and updates resource materials.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Guidelines

• Guidelines include department standard operating procedures, Unified Development Ordinance, and relevant city, state, and federal laws, and regulations. These guidelines are generally clear and specific but may require some interpretation in application.

Supervisory/Management Responsibility

• None

Education/Experience Requirements

• Knowledge and level of competency commonly associated with an office supervisor or manager with a minimum of 3 years of progressive experience.
• Experience sufficient to understand and administratively support the work of the Land Development Team and resolve problems.
• Proficiency with permitting and project management software preferred.
• Possession of or ability to readily obtain a valid driver's license issued by the State of North Carolina for the type of vehicle or equipment operated.
• Possession of or ability to readily obtain a Notary Public issued by the State of North Carolina within 90 days of employment.

Ability to:

• Understand the organization and operation of the City and outside agencies as necessary to assume assigned responsibilities.
• Communicate effectively, orally and in writing.
• Work cooperatively with other departments and outside agencies.
• Interpret and apply departmental policies, laws, and rules.
• Works independently.
• Exercises good independent judgment.
• Understands and carries out oral and written instructions.

Knowledge Requirements

• Strong organizational skills a must.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite including Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint and Access.
• Knowledge of AS/400, Central Square, Cityworks, or similar permitting software.
• Proficient in the operation of computers and other standard office equipment.
• Knowledge of department and city policies and procedures.
• Skill in planning, organization, and decision making.
• Skill in public relations.
• Skill in oral and written communication.

• The work is typically performed in an office and outdoors, and occasionally in cold or inclement weather,while sitting at a desk or table, or while intermittently sitting, standing, or walking.
• The employee occasionally lifts light objects (30- 40 lbs), and must distinguish between shades of color.