Under general supervision, performs technical work involving the processing of permit applications, calculating fees, issuing permits, reviewing development plans for zoning compliance and completeness; coordinates and monitors various permits being processed; provides information to developers, contractors, homeowners, members of the public and private agencies at the counter and by telephone; maintains related files and records; and performs related work as assigned.The Planning Technician is expected to work within a framework of established procedures and perform a full range of duties with only occasional instruction or assistance. Positions at this level frequently work outside the immediate proximity of a supervisor. Work is normally reviewed only on completion and for overall results.
 
Essential Functions:

• Assist the public at the counter, processing plans, forms and permit applications for zoning procedures, and entitlements.
• Review permit applications, plans and specifications for compliance with applicable codes and standards; calculate fees in accordance with established fee schedules; input information into a computer.
• Advise developers, contractors, homeowners, members of the public, and private agencies at the counter and by telephone on matters pertaining to zoning codes, plan requirements, specific plan regulations, permit and plan checking procedures, and other information required by law.
• Maintain permit forms and handout materials related to permit requirements and issuance, and provide clerical assistance.
• Respond to inquiries and provide information related to permit procedures, policies, and functions at the counter and over the telephone.
• Coordinate the tracking, routing, and filing of plans and permits for the Development Review Committee.
• Calculate and determine a variety of fees for permits, taxes, and other charges.
• Maintain records and logs of plans and applications submitted; direct the filing and routing of plans and permits to appropriate City departments and staff.
• Work with planners to complete permit applications, and track various permits being processed.
• Interact with co-workers at all levels in the organization in a collaborative and customer service-oriented manner.
• Maintain prompt and regular attendance.
• Perform all duties within the context of the City's Mission Statement and Organizational Values.

Any combination of education and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the essential job duties of the position is qualifying. Incumbents will possess the most desirable combination of training, skills, and experience, as demonstrated in their past and current employment history. A typical example includes:

Education: 

• High School Diploma or G.E.D.
• Equivalent of two (2) years of college toward a bachelor's degree in urban planning or a related field.

 
Experience:

• Two (2) years of permit issuance experience in a municipality or similar organization which requires the interpretation and application of policies, rules, and regulations (desirable)

Knowledge of:

• Processes and procedures associated with various zoning permits, record keeping and records management practices.
• Zoning codes and requirements.
• Data processing systems/applications.

Ability to:

• Understand, explain, and apply policies and procedures.
• Work effectively and independently in the absence of direct supervision.
• Quickly and accurately perform basic mathematical computations.
• Understand and follow verbal and written directions.
• Communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
• Deal tactfully and courteously with internal and external customers.
• Maintain related files and records.
• Establish and maintain cooperative working relationships.
• Operate a variety of office equipment and a computer utilizing a variety of software programs.

Training/Safety Requirements: 

• Knowledge of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and computer-based permit issuance and tracking systems is desirable; the ability to learn those systems is essential.
• Receive satisfactory results from a background investigation, a physical examination, which includes a drug screen, and an administrative review.

Physical Profile:

Category I – Light Physical Effort: Positions in this category require normal physical abilities associated with the ability to read, write, and communicate in a work environment requiring no extraordinary physical strength or special physical qualifications.

Characteristics: Work assignments for this category are normally located in a work environment which has no unusual physical requirements or environmental conditions, unless separately identified. Positions in this category require only light physical effort while performing such functions as typing, writing, filing, computing, operating light office equipment, interviewing, counseling, researching, planning, analyzing, and supervising. Positions allocated to this category are distinguished by a lack of duties involving strenuous activities. These positions seldom lift more than 20 pounds.

Details: 

Department/Division: Development Services

Reports To: Assigned Manager

Employee Unit:

San Bernardino Public Employees Association (SBPEA)/Teamsters Local Union No. 1932 – Professional, Technical and Clerical 

Revised: 6/22/15

Replacing Planning Technician classification specification dated 10/27/06.