Associate Planner/Principal Planner

Job Summary – Associate Planner

The Associate Planner performs entry-to-journey-level professional planning work. Responsibilities include assisting the public, developers, builders, and county staff by communicating ordinances, policies, and procedures. The Associate Planner reviews land use applications to ensure conformity with adopted codes and established plans and participates in long-range planning activities.

Job Summary – Principal Planner

The Principal Planner performs a range of complex professional land use planning duties across various program areas. Responsibilities include assisting the public, developers, builders, and county staff by communicating ordinances, policies, and procedures. The Principal Planner reviews land use applications to ensure compliance with adopted codes and established plans and leads in long-range, proactive planning initiatives.

Key Responsibilities

Communication and Customer service

• Provide information to the public about land use planning, policies, ordinances, application filing procedures, and the permit review process
• Present applications and findings to the public, Planning and Zoning Commission, and Board of County Commissioners
• Perform assignments related to community outreach and public education, including special presentations to civic groups and other interest groups
• Provide outstanding customer service by communicating respect, collaboration, and conflict resolution

Research, Data Management, and Plan Preparation

• Research, analyze, write, and implement reports, ordinances, resolutions, comprehensive plans, subarea plans, and other land use plans and amendments;
• Gather, maintain, and present qualitative and quantitative data
• Coordinate with geographic information systems (GIS) to update zoning and land use maps
• Create exhibits (sketches, diagrams and drawings) as necessary

Compliance

• Perform field inspections to determine compliance with permit approval conditions and to verify the accuracy of the information
• Review a variety of complex land use entitlements and agency referrals for consistency with the adopted plans and regulations; develop recommendations and write comprehensive reports with clear permit conditions

Consultation and Team Collaboration

• As part of a team, complete planning duties and identify ideas for efficiencies
• Meet with committees to present, discuss, and formulate policy recommendations
• Prepare requests for a variety of consultant proposals and monitor the progress and adequacy of the work

Principal Planner

Leadership and Project Management

• Function as a project manager and team lead on complex projects/cases
• Assist with implementing job standards and performance levels
• Provide direction to professional staff on determining the level of significance, priority status, and appropriate methodological analysis
• Assist with training and reviewing others’ work including a variety of planning projects and development applications

Other Duties

• Perform all work duties and activities following county policies, procedures, and safety policies
• Lead or assist with special projects or additional tasks as assigned

Job Requirements

Ability to:

• Research, analyze, and evaluate statistical data, calculate percentages, averages, land acreages, and distances
• Manage and complete multiple tasks or projects using established principles and best practices
• Communicate effectively through report writing, presentations, and other methods
• Understand and implement current and long-range county planning objectives, ordinances, codes, zoning regulations, development standards, and design regulations; read maps, aerial photos, and legal descriptions
• Interpret and apply state statutes, case law, and court decisions related to planning, zoning, development, and land use practices
• Deliver excellent customer service
• Maintain a positive attitude focused on adaptability, proactive engagement, problem-solving, and effective time management in work and interactions with clients and colleagues
• Operate a variety of standard and department-specific office equipment and software programs, including personal commuters and relevant applications for assigned tasks

Special Qualifications

• Idaho driver's license
• Must successfully complete a background investigation through the National Crime Information Center (NCIC)

Experience and Training

Associate Planner

• Bachelor’s Degree in planning or related field, with planning courses included as part of the curriculum
• One (1) year experience in planning, community development, or related field
• Demonstrated experience in customer service
• An equivalent combination of experience and training may be considered

Principal Planner

• Bachelor’s Degree in planning or related field, with planning courses included as part of the curriculum
• Three (3) years experience in land use planning or related field; one (1) year of public government experience required
• Principal Planner - AICP Certification preferred at time of hire
• An equivalent combination of experience and training may be considered