Title: Planning Clerk

Department: Planning and Building

FLSA Status: Non-exempt, full-time 40 hours per week, hourly, benefited.

Pay Scale: Hourly from $17.58 (entry) to $31.09 (top step)

This job description reflects the general concept and intent of the position and should not be construed as a detailed statement of all work requirements that may be inherent in the position.

POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES:

The Planning Clerk is responsible for providing, managing, and coordinating a wide variety of administrative and clerical services in support of the Planning and Building Department's activities.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Act as the point of contact for public inquiries related to planning and building projects and regulations and requirements, providing clear and accurate information with excellent customer service.

• Receive planning, envirom11ental, and building permit applications, checking for completeness, collecting fees, and assigning for review to the appropriate team member.

• Provide administrative support to the planning manager through tasks such as proofreading, researching, assisting with plmming-related projects, making website updates, and responding to emails.

• Assist in the processing of planning and environmental applications and permits.

• Receipt revenues and process bill vouchers.

• Maintain accurate and up-to-date records and databases, ensuring both digital and physical archives are organized and easily accessible.

• Provide administrative support for meetings, including scheduling, preparing agendas, and taking and distributing minutes.

• Assist in the preparation of a variety of reports and documents, including staff reports, legal notices, outreach and informational materials, and ordinance amendments.

• Schedule meetings, appointments and building permit inspections.

• Assist with grant billing and management.

• Other similar duties as assigned by the Planning Manager.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS AND SKILLS:

• Ability to read, interpret, apply, and explain rules, regulations, policies, and procedures.

• Excellent written and verbal communication and customer service skills

• Ability to establish and maintain effective relationships with the public, government officials, professional contacts, and staff.

• Strong organizational and research skills and attention to detail.

• Ability to learn new skills, apply new knowledge, utilize available resources, and seek assistance when necessary.

• Ability to read construction plans, maps, surveys, and site plans.

• Ability to work independently and be self-directed.

• Proficiency in standard office software such as Word, Outlook, Adobe, Excel.

• Ability to multi-task and prioritize in a busy environment.

• Team-oriented person who is self-motivated and can stand up under adversity and pressure.

• Experience in administrative or clerical roles is preferred.

• Experience in a government or planning-related environment is advantageous.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

Work is generally performed in an office environment, which is open to the public and subject to frequent interruptions. Duties require sustained posture in a seated position and prolonged periods of computer operation; use of standard office equipment; strength to lift, pull, push, and/or carry up to 25 pounds or potentially more with assistance; vision to read printed materials and a computer screen, and hearing and speech to communicate in person or over the telephone; ability to stand, walk, stoop, kneel, crouch, ascend/descend stairs, and reach with arms and legs. Work includes regular interaction with employees and the public, with occasional exposure to upset or angry customers. Good listening skills are necessary.

Duties require infrequent work in non-office settings and outdoors. Work outdoors may include exposure to a variety of weather conditions and other hazards such as temperature extremes, dusty/windy conditions, insects, animals, etc., and requires the ability to traverse a variety of terrain.

Most of the work schedule takes place during normal office hours, but occasional night meetings are required. Infrequent travel may be required for training opportunities and /or meetings. Punctuality and regular attendance is required.

SUPERVISION:

Work is performed under the direction and supervision of the Planning Manager. Work is evaluated in terms of efficiency and accuracy in performing the assigned duties. The employee shall adhere to the Columbia County Personnel Handbook. Columbia County is a drug-free workplace.

To apply, complete the fillable job application online and email it with a resume to Dena Martin at dena_martin@co.columbia.wa.us or deliver to the Planning and Building Department at 114 S 2nd Street, Dayton. Position is open until filled.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $17.58 - $31.09 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Paid time off
• Parental leave
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift

Ability to Relocate:

• Dayton, WA: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person