Planner I presso City of Buda

About the Department

The Planner I position is responsible for providing professional administration of development, building and code enforcement related processes. This is accomplished by processing permit applications, evaluating compliance of applications with adopted codes and policies, preparation of reports, responding to requests from the public, development applicants, city entities (including city departments, City Council, Boards and commissions), and resolving applicant disputes. Other duties include various assignments from Director of Development Services and other Department Heads. This position reports to the Director of Development Services.

Position Duties

• Assesses completeness, evaluates or assists in the evaluation of development applications, rezoning, ordinance amendments, site plans, sign permits, building permits, special use permits, variances, certificates of design compliance, and other proposals.
• Coordinates review of public and private development projects.
• Helps coordinate reviews with other government agencies. 
• Provides technical assistance and information to staff and the public in the administration of specific planning programs areas or ordinances.
• Performs routine office tasks in designated program areas, including data entry, file management, copying and answering telephone as needed.
• Develops and maintains automated tracking systems, digital or hard-copies files and records as needed.
• Assists in the review of moderately difficult development proposals and site plans for conformance with codes, plans and regulations.
• Conducts field checks as necessary. 
• Assists and prepares detailed reports on development proposals to government appointed and elected bodies.
• Supports in the collection of a variety of statistical data and prepares reports and maps on topics such as census information, land-use, tax base data, occupancy rates, and performance measures.
• Writes, or assists in writing, a variety of ordinances and regulations relating to development controls.
• Prepares public notices or property owner verifications as needed.
• Attends public meetings and assists other planning staff as appropriate.
• Provides support to various boards and commissions, including preparation of agendas and minutes, and routinely attends evening meetings.
• Assists and prepares reports and makes presentations at public hearings regarding land use and other planning related activities as needed. 
• Conducts research for documents, compiles data for computer entry, and/or enters or oversees data entry.
• Supports the development of planning studies and reports in support of new and updated plans, programs and regulations. 
• Performs other related job duties as assigned.  

Minimum Qualifications

Education and Experience:
Bachelor’s Degree in Urban Planning, Architecture, Construction Management, Geography, Public Administration, Social Sciences or related fields; and six months to one (1) year of work experience in plan review, general city planning, zoning administration, building code application or surveying.  Experience with Historical Preservation is a plus.

Special Qualifications:
Valid State of Texas driver's license required.

Other Qualifications

• Knowledge of planning principles and practices, including pertinent specialties.
• Knowledge of principles, methodology, practices of research and data collection.
• Skill in performing independent technical research and presenting findings pertaining to planning and zoning and other departments.
• Knowledge of basic economic development principles and practices
• Skill in the use small office equipment, including copy machines or multi-line telephone systems.
• Knowledge of statistical, algebraic or geometric practices; apply such knowledge in practical situations.
• Ability to write reports, prepare business letters, expositions, and summaries with proper format, punctuation, spelling, and grammar, using all parts of speech.
• Ability to organize and communicate effectively.
• Ability to cordially communicate with and develop effective working relationship with design professionals, the public, and colleagues. 
• Ability to remain flexible and open to new ideas and encourages others to value change.
• Ability to identify ways to incorporate new practices into existing framework.
• Ability to work well under pressure and stress; meet deadlines; plan, organize and prioritize multiple work assignments.