Zoning Administrator

Department of Tribal Administration

Hourly Wage: $39.82/Regular/Full-Time/Supervisory

Location: Toppenish

This position serves as a primary point of contact for citizens and businesses seeking zoning and planning related information within the jurisdiction of the Yakama Nation. The position is responsible for the intake of various zoning and development applications; review of zoning and development applications prior to issuance of construction permits to determine compliance with zoning regulations; consults with professionals, property owners, and contractors to achieve compliance with zoning regulations of the Yakama Nation, Title XL (40) of the Revised Yakama Code; assists applicants with development approval process, including site plan, special land use, issues zoning permits, works with the Enforcement Officer to investigate and enforce alleged violations of local zoning regulations and property maintenance codes, provide technical and administrative support to the Planner. Monitors the activities of other local, county and state governmental agencies to safeguard the political integrity, health, welfare, economies, or wellbeing of the Yakama Nation from any significant adverse impacts. Promote public health safety, morals, and general welfare according to the rights reserved by the Yakama Nation in the "Treaty with the Yakamas." (12 Stat. 951).

Examples of Work Performed:

• Administers the planning process by developing and coordinating development plans with various agencies and departments in preparation for the Board of Adjustment and assures that these plans conform with all land development regulations.
• Writes, reviews, and comments on development plans as they relate to the requirements of the Zoning regulations.
• Conducts site visits related to zoning and development related applications.
• Performs the duties of Secretary to the Board of Adjustment, by attending its meetings and scheduling public hearings.
• Attending public hearings of other governmental jurisdiction on zoning issues that affect or impact the Nation's inherent interests.
• Participates in the review, inspection, and approval of all lot combinations, divisions, and property line adjustments.
• Works cooperatively with all Yakama Nation Programs for collaboration on applicable compliance areas to serve the best interests of the Yakama Nation.
• Assists with the creation of reports for zoning regulations amendments, variances, and appeals, and site plan and special land use reviews.
• Provides support in the preparation, submittal, and record-keeping of public notices.
• Coordinates meetings and makes recommendations for revisions of the regulations pertaining to current planning topics and/or recurring issues and creates required notices associated with the revision of regulations.
• Frequently accesses GIS maps and data and other online records and prepares routine maps using GIS data.
• Compiles activity and departmental reports.
• Researches and compiles information on a variety of planning and development issues.
• Creates and publishes necessary materials for communications with residents and staff.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Thorough knowledge of Yakama Nation's Amended Zoning Regulations, Codes pertaining to planning, zoning, building, and property maintenance.
• Knowledge of philosophies, principles, and practices of zoning, land use planning, development, and construction.
• Strong analytical and communication skills.
• Impeccable decision making and managerial skills are a must.
• Knowledge of computer applications related to the work, standard report writing practices, standard practices of records management, storage, and retrieval.

• Knowledge of geography, technical mathematics and measurement through algebra and geometry, and

design knowledge are a plus.

• Understand the cultural significance and importance of Natural Resources of the Yakama Nation such as

Forestry Management, Fisheries, Wildlife, Native Foods, and Plants.

• Knowledge on matters of Environmental Protection regarding water shed, water ways, ground waters, land/ground contamination, and hazardous water disposal systems.
• Ability to develop comprehensive plans and programs for use of land and physical facilities of jurisdiction.
• Ability to keep up to date on regional and national matters that may affect the Yakama Nation such as Economic Development projects, funding, and legislative changes that may affect Indian Country.
• Ability to be diplomatic and polite in dealing with the public in an effective and timely manner.
• Effective communication with immediate supervisor to ensure that supervisor is kept up to date on any issues or concerns regarding internal or external matters affecting the program.

Minimum Requirements:

• Associate degree with Five years of experience in the field in land use planning, land use management, or zoning enforcement.
• Required to pass a pre-employment drug test.
• Must possess a valid Washington State Driver's License with the ability to obtain a Yakama Nation Driving Permit.
• Enrolled Yakama Preference, but all qualified applicants are encouraged to apply.

Preferred Requirements:

• Four-year degree with major work in environmental science or engineering, natural resources or civil engineering or other related field OR Four (4) years experience in the field in land use planning, land use management or zoning enforcement. Knowledge of the Law of Zoning and Planning. Documented experience proving work in land use planning or management.
• Certified Home and/or Building Inspector.
• Completion of the Zoning Administrator Certificate Program.
• Experience using GIS is preferred.