Assistant Planner

Under general supervision, the Assistant Planner is responsible for the application of routine planning principles and techniques; performs professional level work in the field of planning, zoning, and environmental analysis; and performs other related duties as assigned.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED:

Supervision is provided by Director of Community Development, Principal Planner or their designee.

Essential job functions may include, but are not limited to, the following: (These functions may not be present in all positions in this classification. When a position is filled, the essential functions will be noted in the announcement of position availability. Management reserves the right to add, modify, change, or rescind work assignments as needed.)

Researches, analyzes, and interprets social, economic, population, and land use data trends; prepares written reports on various planning matters and elements of the General Plan; prepares and/or reviews initial studies and environmental documents in compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA); compiles information and makes recommendations on special studies and prepare complex planning reports; participates in zoning and code enforcement and administration; prepares zoning code and General Plan amendment studies; reviews development proposals and works with developers to reach agreement on acceptable site plans; reviews building plans for conformance with the City's zoning and the General Plan, as well as related ordinances, policies, and guidelines; reviews parcel maps and subdivision proposals for compliance with appropriate regulations; reviews and assists in the preparation and submittal of, and evaluates and processes certificate of occupancy, conditional use permit, variance, subdivision, design review, and other similar planning applications; prepares recommendations on planning related matters; prepares staff reports and makes presentations to the City Council, Planning Commission, various committees, and advisory boards as directed; checks commercial, industrial and residential development plans for issuance of zone clearance; researches and drafts ordinances for review; confers with and advises architects, builders, attorneys, contractors, engineers, and the general public regarding City development policies and standards; responds to, and resolves, difficult citizen inquiries and complaints regarding the City's planning function in a timely manner; participates in coordinating City planning activities with internal and outside departments and agencies; and performs other related duties as assigned. Maintains regular attendance.

To qualify for this classification, an individual must possess any combination of experience and education that would likely produce the required knowledge and abilities; and enable the individual to successfully perform the essential job functions of the position. A typical combination is:

Education and/or Experience:

Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in Planning, Urban Planning/Design, Architecture, or a closely related field or a minimum of one year of experience in planning and/or technical work, conducting planning studies, and assisting with project reviews is required. Local government experience is desirable.

Knowledge of:

Principles and practices of urban planning and development; California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA); current literature, information sources, and research techniques in the field of urban planning; modern office practices, procedures, methods, and equipment; general office computer skills; permitting software system; and GIS.

Ability to:

Learn to apply laws underlying general plans, zoning, and land divisions; apply environmental laws and regulations and methods of assessment; analyze and compile technical and statistical information and prepare reports; prepare maps and graphics for reports and presentations; understand and carry out oral and written directions; communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing; prepare clear and concise technical and administrative reports including accurate tables, schedules, summaries and other materials in narrative form, establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work; establish and maintain various data collection record keeping, tracking, filing, and reporting systems; maintain office and specialized files; interpret planning and zoning codes for the general public; and attend evening meetings on an as needed basis.

Possession of and ability to maintain a valid Class "C" California Driver's License is required. Certification from the American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) is desirable.