What are the responsibilities and job description for the City Planner position at the City of Willmar?
Purpose
Performs non-supervisory technical and specialized work with primary responsibility for land use planning and zoning administration. Assists with economic development research and projects.
Organizational Relationships
Communicates with: Internally – City Administrator, Department Directors, City Attorney and various City staff;
Externally – Developers, contractors, realtors, surveyors, architects, engineers, other planners, Mid MN Development Commission, Kandiyohi Economic Development, Economic Development Association of Minnesota, MN Chapter of the American Planning Association, and the public.
Supervises: None
Essential Functions
- Land use planning (comprehensive and special projects).
- Prepare staff reports on a variety of planning/zoning issues and proposals.
- Assist with zoning and subdivision ordinance administration (plan review, conditional use permits, rezonings/amendments, variances, and plats).
- Lead zoning enforcement efforts.
- Assist with code enforcement efforts and communication.
- Attend and participate in Planning Commission, Board of Zoning Appeals, and Sub-Committee meetings.
- Assist with economic development research and planning for the development and drafting of new and revised policies and protocols.
- Prepare graphic presentations and maps.
- Maintain records and files.
- Provide information, education, and findings to the City Council, commissions, boards, community groups, and the public on planning-related issues.
- Assist with Main Street tasks as needed.
- Attend continuing education and professional development courses and seminars.
- Perform special projects.
- Perform other related duties as assigned by supervisor or as apparent.
Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Knowledge of physical planning, zoning and subdivision practices.
- Knowledge of local, state, and federal land use, planning and development laws, regulations, and programs.
- Knowledge of and the ability to use GIS.
- Knowledge of economic development planning practices.
- Knowledge of government structure and practices.
- Skill in reading maps and plans.
- Computer skills: Outlook, Word, Excel, etc.
- Skill in written and verbal communication.
- Ability to work with the public and civic/citizen groups.
- Ability to initiate and pursue specific projects.
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field.
Preferred Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Urban or Regional planning and 1 year of experience in land use planning and zoning.
Working Conditions
Work is performed in typical office environment with travel within/without the City to observe projects and attend meetings. Operates either a City or personal vehicle for regular transportation needs. Sits for extended periods of time. Noise in work place is usually quiet but may be exposed to louder noises at work sites. May be exposed to dangerous or unsafe conditions at construction sites. Uses near vision, ability to focus, sense of touch, and hearing. Uses fine and large motor movements at times.