Staff Planner

Purpose of Position:

The purpose of this job is to research and prepare information related to planning functions within the Planning Department. Duties and responsibilities include, but are not limited to,reviewing of site plans, reviewing and recording of minor subdivision plats, administering development related ordinances and regulations, writing and reviewing reports, reviewing plans, assisting and directing developers, and approving permits.

Essential Job Functions:

• Assists property owners and/or their representatives with questions and projects relating to zoning, subdivision, site plans.
• Oversees Subdivision plats (intake, analysis, recording).
• Supports Planning Commission and Board of Appeals (intake of cases staff reports meetings.)
• Performs zoning analysis and research.
• Develops and maintains various databases of information needed to support ongoing or projectspecific analysis.
• Prepares zoning correspondence and answers public inquiries regarding zoning and subdivision issues as assigned.
• Administers the County’s zoning ordinance and other developmentrelated

regulations; conducts research on various issues related to zoning or development regulations as assigned.

• Provides instruction and direction to the general public and department visitors;

receives, responds to, or forwards departmental, governmental, or public correspondence by phone, mail, message, etc.

• Maintains accurate records of inspections, violations, investigations, and enforcement actions.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Education/Experience/Certifications (minimum qualifications):

• Bachelor's degree in urban/regional planning, forestry, landscape architecture,

architecture, transportation, or related field of study with three years of progressive government planning and zoning experience required; or any equivalent combination

• of education training and experience which provides the requisite knowledge skills and abilities for this job. Must be proficient in managing Boards and Commissions.
• Microsoft experience (Excel, Word, and PowerPoint).
• Excellent communication and people skills.
• Ability to navigate stakeholder relationships and regulatory environments.
• Familiarity with Planning and Zoning software, technology, and trends.
• Must possess a valid driver’s license.

Physical requirements and working environment:

• Must be physically able to operate a variety of machinery and equipment including a

computer, copier, telephone, and communications equipment. Must be able to use body members to work, move or carry objects or materials. This position requires

walking, standing, bending, stooping, pushing, pulling, lifting, grasping, feeling, seeing, talking, hearing, and repetitive motions.

• Must be able to exert up to twenty pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to ten

pounds of force frequently. Physical demand requirements are at levels of those for light work.

• Must be able to stand, walk, and traverse department and community for extended periods. Capable of ascending stairs and pedestrian areas as needed.
• Clear vision and hearing, including the ability to communicate effectively in various environments.
• Comfortable working in both indoor and outdoor settings, exposed to varying weather conditions.

Other:

• May be required to work on religious holidays.
• Regular and predictable attendance is required.
• Must work cooperatively with others.
• When position requires vehicle operation, responsible for the safety, readiness and operation of the vehicle and must abide by Dorchester’s safe driving policy.

Americans with Disabilities Act Compliance:

Dorchester County is an Equal Opportunity Employer. ADA requires Dorchester County to provide reasonable accommodations to qualified persons with disabilities. Prospective and current employees are encouraged to discuss ADA accommodations with management.

This job description does not constitute an employment agreement between Dorchester County and an employee and is subject to change as business/operational needs change.

Note: This job description is intended to convey information essential to understanding the scope of this position. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of qualifications, responsibilities, or duties associated with the role.

About Dorchester County

Dorchester County is called “The Heart of the Eastern Shore” because its mid-shore location and its geographic configuration is heart-shaped. Throughout history, renowned individuals have called Dorchester County home: Harriet Tubman, the “Moses of her people,” who risked her life time and again to help dozens of enslaved people find freedom through the Underground Railroad in the mid-1800s; Annie Oakley, famed sharpshooter who lived here in the early 1900s; and Anna Ella Carroll, President Lincoln’s secret adviser and military strategist.