Planner I

PLANNER I

Performs highly responsible professional and technical level work in the field of planning, zoning, and developmental plan review.

Distinguishing Features of the Class

An employee in this class is required to possess a general knowledge of public sector planning, office practices and procedures, and provide coordinated guidance and regulation of the growth and development of the Town. The Planner often works closely with the public on a regular basis to provide customer service on planning and general permit issues. The Planner will also prepare memorandums, presentations, text amendments, and other materials for Board of Adjustment, Planning & Zoning, and Board of Aldermen meetings. The Planner supports the Town’s involvement in local and regional committees and organizations related to flood, zoning, and development. Work involves providing technical guidance to department staff, and considerable public contact often in sensitive or emotional issues requiring judgement, firmness, and tact. The role also includes developing a favorable relationship between the Town and the community. Work is performed under regular supervision and is evaluated through conferences, review of assigned projects, and reactions of the public and property owners.

Duties and Responsibilities

Essential Duties and Tasks

Reviews basic development plans and subdivision plats for zoning compliance and adherence to Town standards; prepares appropriate response.

Assists in review of building permits to assure compliance with applicable conditions and regulations.

Develops planning studies and reports in support of new and updated plans, programs and regulations.

Reviews or assists in the review of moderately difficult development. proposals and site plans for conformance with codes, plans, and regulations.

Assists in preparing detailed reports on development proposals to Board of Aldermen, Planning Board, and Board of Appeals.

Collects a variety of statistical data and prepares reports on topics such as census information, land use, tax base data, and occupancy rates.

Evaluates or assists in the evaluation of rezonings, ordinance amendments, site plans, special use permits, variances and other proposals.

Acts as liaison between community groups, government agencies, developers and elected officials in developing neighborhood plans.

Coordinates community review of public and private development projects.

Provides information to the public regarding development regulations.

Assists in resolving citizen and customer issues.

Conducts field evaluations and assessments.

Assists Planner II as needed.

Attends evening and weekend meetings as needed.

Performs related duties as required.

Recruitment and Selection Guidelines

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Knowledge of the principles and practices of planning.

Knowledge of a relevant specialization such as land use/zoning, transportation planning, environmental planning, urban design, housing, historic preservation or economic development is desired.

Knowledge of principles and practices of research and data collection.

Statistical, algebraic, or geometric knowledge and ability to apply such knowledge in practical situations.

GIS programs and applications.

Working knowledge of planning principles and zoning code, municipal planning, Unified Development Ordinance and its applications.

Ability to review plans and apply provisions of ordinances and codes to determine compliance with regulations and ability to apply regulations to field conditions.

Oral communication and interpersonal skills to explain rules and procedures clearly to the public.

Creative problem-solving skills to gather relevant information to solve practical problems and address citizen inquiries and concerns.

Requires excellent communications skills and knowledge of development codes, ordinances and procedures.

Demonstrates effective writing techniques.

Excellent ability with computer programs and applications, which may include Microsoft Office, Internet applications, and database management.

Ability to create graphic designs, development strategies, and render site plans via sketches and/or computer graphics is highly desirable.

Ability to work on several projects or issues simultaneously.

Ability to work independently or in a team environment as needed.

Ability to attend to details while keeping big-picture goals in mind.

Ability to facilitate in-person and virtual public participation activities.

Physical Requirements

Must be able to physically perform the basic life operational functions of climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, crawling, reaching, standing, walking, lifting, fingering, grasping, talking, and hearing.

Must be able to perform sedentary work exerting up to 10 pounds of force occasionally, and/or a negligible amount of force frequently or constantly to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects.

Must possess the visual acuity to prepare and analyze data and figures, operate a computer terminal, operate a motor vehicle, perform field site inspections, and use measurement devices.

Desirable Education and Experience

Graduation from an accredited college or university with a degree in urban planning, geography, landscape architecture or a related field.

One year of Planning experience Preferred

Special Requirement

Possession of valid North Carolina driver’s license.

Certified Zoning Officer required within eighteen months of hire.

: Non-Exempt

Disclaimer

This classification specification has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of employees to perform the job. The Town of Shallotte reserves the right to assign or otherwise modify the duties assigned to this classification.

Updated: June 2025

Pay: From $57,320.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• AD&D insurance
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person

Salary : $57,320