Planner I chez Forsyth County, GA

About the Department

The purpose of this classification is to review minor plat, variance and zoning compliance reviews for compliance with County codes, ordinances, as assigned to the Development Review Division.

Position Duties

The following duties are normal for this position. The omission of specific statements of the duties does not exclude them from the classification if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment for this classification. Other duties may be required and assigned.

Interprets and applies County codes, ordinances, and regulations pertaining to zoning, land use, and site development; researches code-related issues in code books as needed; initiates any actions necessary to correct deviations.

Provides information and technical assistance to citizens, property owners, land developers, contractors, architects, staff members, County officials, or other individuals/agencies regarding planning/zoning issues, land use issues, code/ ordinances, land development review procedures, site plan reviews, permits, fees, or other issues; responds to routine questions or complaints; researches problems and initiates problem resolutions; assists the public at front counter with various issues.

Inspects properties as needed; performs visual inspections and takes photographs of property and surrounding areas for staff reports to boards/commission.

Prepares or completes various forms, reports, correspondence, checklists, staff technical reviews, permits, diagrams/ layouts, flow charts, presentation materials, or other documents.

Receives various forms, reports, correspondence, applications, staff technical reviews, architectural drawings, site plans, elevations, plats, legal descriptions, surveys, photographs, technical reports/articles, land use maps, zoning maps, topographical maps, codes, ordinances, regulations, standards, policies, procedures, manuals, reference materials, or other documentation; reviews, completes, processes, forwards or retains as appropriate.

Conducts research of geographical information system (GIS) mapping system, computer databases, Internet sites, hardcopy materials, or other sources as needed.

Operates a computer to enter, retrieve, review or modify data; verifies accuracy of entered data and makes corrections; utilizes word processing, database, presentation, geographical information system (GIS), e-mail, Internet, or other computer programs, including updates to the department web page.

Operates a variety of equipment and tools associated with work activities, which may include a motor vehicle, digital camera, general office equipment, engineering scale.

Coordinates work activities with those of other divisions, other departments, outside agencies, or others as needed.

Communicates with supervisor, employees, other departments, County officials, local/state agencies, applicants, property owners, architects, developers, surveyors, attorneys, consultants, the public, outside agencies, and other individuals as needed to coordinate work activities, review status of work, exchange information, or resolve problems.

Maintains a comprehensive, current knowledge of applicable codes, regulations, and standards; reviews new codes and changes to existing codes; maintains an awareness of new methods, materials, trends and advances in the profession; reads professional literature; maintains professional affiliations; attends seminars, workshops, and training
sessions as appropriate.

Assignment as Planner I in the Development Review Division may include the following duties:

Conducts review of minor plats, administrative variance applications, subdivision plats, site
plans, legal descriptions, surveys, or other documentation for proposed projects; reviews
applications for appeals/variances; meets with applicant, agents, or other parties as needed.

Determines whether proposed development complies with County codes/ordinances; prepares certificates of zoning compliance; prepares staff technical reviews; approves subdivision plats for recording as legal document.

Attends Zoning Board of Appeals meetings.

Serves as staff contact person for the Zoning Board of Appeals; provides advice and information to the Zoning Board of Appeals at meetings and public hearings.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Urban Planning or closely related field; supplemented by one (1) year previous experience and/or training involving urban planning, local/regional land use, zoning, land development plan review, site plan review, and personal computer operations; or any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience which provides the requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities for this job. Must possess and maintain a valid Georgia driver’s license.

Other Qualifications

Internal Promotion Track:  As of the date of application must fully meet the minimum qualifications above or must have at least two (2) years of relevant previous experience and documented approval from the department director that they have demonstrated the ability to perform the essential functions of the job.