What are the responsibilities and job description for the Planner I / Zoning Officer position at COUNTY OF WARREN?
COUNTY OF WARREN
PLANNER I / ZONING OFFICER
GENERAL DEFINITION AND CONDITIONS OF WORK:
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Performs responsible technical and entry-level professional work in current planning, development review, zoning administration, and enforcement of the County Zoning Ordinance and related land-use regulations. Work is performed under the general supervision of the Planning Director, with technical direction from the Zoning Administrator for zoning compliance and enforcement matters. Work involves public contact, field inspections, research, report preparation, and coordination with other County departments and reviewing agencies. Performs related work as required.
This is primarily office and field work requiring occasional lifting of up to 20 pounds, walking over uneven terrain, standing, bending, reaching, and use of computers and office equipment. Visual and hearing abilities are required for reviewing plans and maps, communicating with the public, and conducting site inspections. Work may involve outdoor exposure to varying weather and site conditions. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals to perform essential functions.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS / TYPICAL TASKS:
- Assisting with planning and zoning activities, reviewing development proposals, conducting inspections, preparing technical materials, and providing information to the public.
- Reviews zoning permits, site plans, subdivision plats, and related applications for consistency with applicable ordinances and established review procedures;
- Assists in processing conditional use permits, rezonings, variances, and other land-use applications;
- Prepares draft staff reports, research memoranda, correspondence, maps, and presentations for the Planning Commission, Board of Supervisors, and Board of Zoning Appeals;
- Assists with Comprehensive Plan implementation, ordinance amendments, planning studies, and other current and long-range planning projects;
- Conducts zoning inspections and investigates complaints; documents findings and prepares enforcement correspondence and notices as authorized by the Zoning Administrator;
- Assists property owners, applicants, and citizens with zoning and subdivision regulations, procedures, and application requirements;
- Reviews and interprets surveys, plats, site plans, architectural drawings, property records, and GIS mapping resources; Coordinates application comments and reviews with County departments, state agencies, and other applicable authorities;
- Maintains accurate case files, inspection records, application tracking information, and related departmental records;
- Attends public meetings and assists with presentations and responses to questions as assigned;
- Participates in professional training and certification activities; and
- Performs related tasks as required.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
Working knowledge of, or ability to acquire knowledge of, land-use planning principles, zoning administration, code enforcement, and local government procedures; ability to interpret ordinances and technical documents; ability to read maps, surveys, plats, and site plans; ability to conduct research and prepare clear written reports and correspondence; skill in using computers, office software, and GIS resources; ability to conduct field inspections and document findings; ability to communicate effectively and enforce regulations with firmness, tact, and impartiality; ability to establish effective working relationships with citizens, applicants, coworkers, and public officials; ability to organize multiple assignments and meet deadlines.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:
Any combination of education and experience equivalent to an associate degree in planning, geography, public administration, environmental studies, real estate, or a related field, supplemented by relevant experience in planning, zoning, land development, code enforcement, surveying, or related work. A bachelor's degree in planning or a related field and experience in Virginia local government are preferred. Equivalent relevant professional experience may be considered in lieu of formal education consistent with County policy.
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:
Possession of a valid driver's license appropriate for duties assigned. Ability to obtain applicable zoning certification within a period established by the County, if required by the approved classification. Appointment and any delegated zoning enforcement authority are subject to applicable law, County policy, and written authorization.