This position is open until filled, with first review of applications on May 24, 2024. 

JOB SUMMARY

This position performs professional planning functions. An incumbent in this position may be designated “Senior Planner” (see separate job posting and job description). 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Meets with and provides assistance to the public, developers, attorneys, surveyors, and public officials. 
• Reviews or assists in the review of development proposals and site plans.
• Assists in the evaluation or rezoning requests, ordinance amendments, site plans, special use permits, variances, etc.
• Performs and coordinates inspections and enforcement of all applicable ordinances, regulations, and codes.
• Prepares, issues, and maintains code compliance forms, permits, and certificates of occupancy.
• Develops planning studies and related reports in support of new and updated plans, programs, and regulations.
• Collects a variety of statistical and GIS data; compiles information and generates graphics, reports, maps, informational and instructional materials.
• Coordinates and participates in planning activities through meetings, consultations, and preparation of planning materials.
• Prepares a variety of regular and special reports.
• Maintains files and records.
• Performs additional related duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES REQUIRED BY THE POSITION

• Knowledge of the principles and practices of community planning.
• Knowledge of computers and job-related software programs.
• Knowledge of city codes, zoning regulations, and subdivision ordinances.
• Knowledge of relevant federal and state laws, city ordinances, and department policies and procedures.
• Skill in preparing clear and precise reports.
• Skill in reading and preparing maps, charts, and surveys.
• Skill in problem solving.
• Skill in prioritizing and planning.
• Skill in interpersonal relations.
• Skill in oral and written communication.

SUPERVISORY CONTROLS

The Planning Manager assigns work in terms of very general instructions. The supervisor spot-checks completed work for compliance with procedures and the nature and propriety of the final results.

GUIDELINES

Guidelines include the city code, zoning ordinances, subdivision regulations, and city and department policies and procedures. These guidelines require judgment, selection, and interpretation in application. 

COMPLEXITY/SCOPE OF WORK

• The work consists of varied planning duties. Strict regulations combined with the unique nature of each case in question contributes to the complexity of the position.
• The purpose of this position is to provide planning support for a variety of city functions. Success in this position contributes to the positive growth and development of the city.

CONTACTS

• Contacts are typically with coworkers, other city employees, contractors, developers, business owners, elected and appointed officials, attorneys, and members of the general public.
• Contacts are typically to exchange information, resolve problems, and provide services. 

PHYSICAL DEMANDS/WORK ENVIRONMENT

• The work is typically performed while sitting a desk or table or while intermittently sitting, standing, stooping, bending, crouching, or walking. The employee occasionally lifts light and heavy objects.
• The work is typically performed in an office and outdoors, occasionally in cold or inclement weather. The employee may be exposed to noise, dust, dirt, grease, and machinery with moving parts. Work requires the use of protective devices such as masks, goggles, gloves, etc.

SUPERVISORY AND MANAGEMENT RESPONSIBILITY

None.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Knowledge and level of competency commonly associated with the completion of a baccalaureate degree in a course of study related to the occupational field.
• Sufficient experience to understand the basic principles relevant to the major duties of the position, usually associated with the completion of an apprenticeship/internship or having had a similar position for one to two years.
• All applicants must be able to successfully pass a background check process which includes reference checks and criminal history checks, or other. 

The statements contained herein reflect general details necessary to describe principal functions of this job, the level of knowledge and skills typically required, and the scope of responsibility; and such statements should not be considered all-inclusive. Individuals may perform other duties as assigned, including work in other functional areas, to cover absences or relief, to equalize peak work periods, or to balance workloads. 

Management reserves the sole right to add, modify or exclude any duties at any time with or without notice. Nothing in this job description, nor by completion of any job requirements by the employee, is intended to create a contract of employment.

At its sole discretion, the City of Moses Lake may consider combinations of education, experience, certifications, and training in lieu of specifically required qualifications contained herein.

Moses Lake is a diverse, connected and supportive community of innovation and opportunity that values its namesake lake, small town vibe, growing arts and cultural scene, aerospace, manufacturing and agricultural heritage, and an abundance of sunshine and outdoor activities. 

Working for the City will afford you the opportunity to support the vision of Moses Lake, grow professionally, and work among diverse and dedicated staff with a goal to provide a service-oriented government that works with all interests in the community to implement our vision. 

Our location and climate allow our residents to enjoy a variety of interests surrounding the Moses Lake community. Moses Lake is centrally located between Seattle and Spokane on Highway I-90 between fields of agriculture, freshwater lakes, vineyards and popular recreational destinations. 

Moses Lake boosts active community parks and events, athletic venues and tournaments, a campground, and the popular Surf 'n Slide water park. The surrounding Columbia Basin area is filled with wine tours, a wildlife refuge, the Gorge Amphitheater, local fresh markets with direct-from-the-farm produce, and boutiques.

The City of Moses Lake is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. Our objective is to provide equal opportunity in all terms, conditions, and privileges of employment for qualified applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, or status as a covered veteran.

The City of Moses Lake offers a comprehensive benefits package. Employees (and their families) are eligible to enroll in medical, dental, and vision coverage. In addition to basic life insurance coverage, AD&D, dependent life, additional life insurance, long-term disability, EAP and LifeFlight are also offered. Retirement is through the Department of Retirement Systems - Public Employees Retirement System. Optional deferred compensation is offered with a City match of up to 2% of the employee's base salary. Beginning January 1, 2024, the City will also be offering an optional Flexible Spending Account (FSA) for healthcare and dependent care. Employees of the City receive eleven (11) paid holidays plus one (1) floating holiday annually. Vacation accrual begins at 12 days annually and increases with years of service. Sick leave is accrued at the rate of eight (8) hours per month.