Senior Planner

Department: Planning, Codes & Life Safety

Reports to: Planning Director

Classification: Non Exempt – Grade 10

Effective Date: July 2026

SUMMARY

The Senior Planner is under the general direction of the Planning & Codes Director. The position is responsible for various aspects of municipal planning including zoning, site planning and special projects. Duties and responsibilities include interpretation, enforcement and updating of zoning ordinances, subdivision regulations and sign ordinances; conducting site inspections; performing research functions; reviewing documentation for compliance with ordinances; and related clerical functions.

EXAMPLES OF RESPONSIBILITY

• Provides information to developers and their engineers and planners regarding zoning and compliance with adopted codes and ordinances including weekly development advisory committee.
• Reviews residential, commercial, and industrial site development including plats, site plans and development proposals for compliance with the zoning ordinance, comprehensive plan and other regulations.
• Inspects construction sites and existing sites for zoning, permitting and planning application to monitor progress and ensure conformance to permits, ordinance and standards.
• Prepare and organize agenda and packets including supporting documentation and summary reports for boards such as planning, zoning and historical preservation.
• Provides information and technical assistance to the City Board, Planning Commission, Board of Zoning and Appeals, Board of Adjustment and Appeals and Historic Zoning Commission and the public.
• Resolves customer service issues and disputes presented by the public, development community, City Administrator and City Council regarding zoning, land use, procedures and other development requirements.
• Conducts research and analyzes data on topics such as land use, infrastructure, and economic base to help resolve planning-related issues.
• Performs related tasks as required.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Knowledge of the city and state laws, ordinances and regulations governing city planning and zoning.
• Knowledge of the principles and practices of urban and community planning.
• Knowledge of the principles and techniques of economic and industrial development.
• Knowledge of city and department rules, regulations and procedures.
• Knowledge and ability to work with computers and software programs that are relevant to the position.
• Ability to conduct research, compile data, analyze findings, identify key issues and prepare professional recommendations.
• Ability to effectively interpret and implement city ordinance and policies, review site plans and analyze the potential impact of development proposals.
• Ability to communicate clearly and concisely, orally and in writing and deal with a variety of people in different situations courteously, tactfully and efficiently.
• Strong project management, time management and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to exercise considerable initiative and independent judgment.
• Ability to establish and maintain an effective working relationship with associates, representatives of other agencies and the general public.
• Valid Tennessee Driver’s License.

EDUCATION, TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited undergraduate program in Planning, or other related field required. Master’s degree preferred.
• Five (5) years of related planning experience in state or local government preferred.
• Certification through the American Institute for Certified Planners (AICP) preferred.
• Any combination of experience and training that provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities.

ADA REQUIREMENTS

Physical Requirements - Physical demand requirements are at levels for those of sedentary work. Must be able to lift and/or carry weights of five to ten pounds and occasionally up to forty pounds; occasional bending, kneeling, stooping and reaching above shoulder level; manual dexterity in the use of fingers, limbs or body to operate office equipment; may involve extended periods of sitting at a keyboard.

Sensory Requirements - Tasks require visual perception and discrimination including color and depth. Tasks require perception and discrimination of sound.