Land Use Planner

THE LOCATION

Delta County’s history is rich with the tradition of pioneers of agriculture, mining, land and water development. Over a 100 years ago, it was the original homeland of the Ute Indians, a tribe who takes pride in the land and considers it sacred. Delta County’s community members continue to honor the tradition of land stewardship that the early pioneers originated. The location boasts a rich tapestry of natural wonders, from towering mountains to pristine rivers and breathtaking canyons - a location worthy of preserving. The Department of Planning and Community Development promotes land stewardship by ensuring a clear expectation of how private property can be used and the process for different uses, balanced with protecting agricultural lands and property rights.

THE POSITION

The Planner performs a variety of routine to complex Land Use planning work within a team of other professional planners. This position is responsible for interpreting and applying state, county, and local codes, ordinances, and regulations.

THE VISION

The Department of Planning and Community Development proudly aims to:

• Protect our values and lifestyles
• Preserve our way of life and natural resources
• Promote our citizens and industry
• Participate in creating a place and environment where we can prosper

THE ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Level I

• Assist in various aspects of the county’s current planning program, including processing Land Use applications, creating maps, and informing the public of planning regulations.
• Provide customer service related to zoning and development review processing.
• Act as a case coordinator on routine Land Use cases, including consultation with applicants and coordination with other departments.
• Review and analyze applications with respect to the county's regulations and good planning practices.
• Write staff reports, resolutions, and ordinances for Land Use cases.
• Advise citizens, applicants, and other staff on zoning and planning regulations.
• Prepare and update graphics and maps.
• Review permits and other applications for compliance with zoning requirements.
• Conduct background research and analysis for various projects.
• Attend meetings and make presentations to boards or commissions.

Level II

• Complete all duties of level I planner at an intermediate level with minimal supervision.
• Perform a full range of complex professional Land Use planning assignments in all program areas and act as project planner with full responsibility for the review and processing of varied and complex planning projects.
• Interpret and apply applicable state, county, and local codes, ordinances, and regulations.
• Initiate actions to correct deficiencies or violations of regulations.
• Assist with updates and maintenance of the Comprehensive Plan and land development regulations.
• Conduct reviews of various development applications including plats, permits, site plans, variance requests, and rezoning applications.
• Conduct extensive research in specific or general project areas.
• Write and present formal and technical reports, working papers, and correspondence.
• Identify community problems, issues, and opportunities in particular neighborhoods that could be mitigated through better community planning.
• Develop long-range plans for communities with common developmental issues.
• Develop strategies to promote economic and community development or efficient Land Use consistent with community goals.
• Evaluate the adequacy of community facilities in meeting current and projected needs.
• Recommend priorities, schedules, and funding sources to implement public improvements plans.
• Write or assist in writing various ordinances and regulations relating to development controls.
• Attend a substantial number of evening and weekend meetings.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Education:

Level I

• Bachelor's degree in Planning or a related field OR completion of equivalent of two (2) full time years of college level course work in planning or related field; AND 2 years progressive experience in Land Use planning or related field

Level II

• A master's degree with two years of experience in the planning profession, OR a bachelor's degree with four years of professional planning experience.

Experience:

Level I

• One year of experience in planning administration, public administration, or a related field, preferably in local government

Level II

• Two to four years’ Planner I level experience in land, community, public, or economic development, Land Use, zoning, or planning along with the demonstrated competency to perform at the Associate Planner level.
• Well-developed knowledge of planning principles and practices.
• In-depth knowledge of one or more planning specializations, such as Land Use planning/zoning, transportation planning, environmental planning, urban design, housing, historic preservation, or economic development.
• Knowledge of principles, methodology, practices of research, and data collection.

Qualifications:

• Knowledge of basic principles and practices of urban planning, especially related to site planning and architectural design
• Ability to provide strong customer service, write clearly, and make formal presentations
• Ability to learn laws, codes, and ordinances related to planning and zoning

Licenses/Certifications:

• Possession of a valid driver's license with a safe driving record
• Bilingual English/Spanish fluency preferred
• Ability to complete FEMA ICS 100 and IS 700 training within 1 year of hire
• American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) certification is preferred

Combination of education and experience could waive specific requirement.

THE BENEFITS

Delta County offers a competitive compensation package including elective employee paid insurance benefit policies, 4% contribution to a 401(a) retirement account with a 4% match, paid time off, paid holidays, employee discounts, and other fringe benefits. We are proud to offer a flexible schedule to support work-life balance and exploration of the stunning outdoor recreational opportunities nearby. Our laid-back and supportive work environment fosters professional growth and collaboration. Our employees have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on our vibrant community. If you enjoy the outdoors, you will love Delta County’s proximity to majestic mountains, serene rivers, and awe-inspiring canyons which provide endless opportunities for outdoor adventures and rejuvenation - we think that’s a pretty sweet benefit.

READY to take the next step?

HOW TO APPLY

Interested applicants can obtain a job description and application by visiting Delta County’s website at deltacountyco.gov/jobs. Completed applications need to be submitted by emailing humanresources@deltacountyco.gov. Current Delta County employees, please apply using the Internal Transfer and Promotion Application and email to Human Resources, along with any additional supporting documents.

The position is open until filled. Resumes will not be accepted without a completed application. The final candidate must successfully pass a pre-employment background check.

Our organization is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $28.05 - $35.49 per hour

Expected hours: 40 per week

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Employee discount
• Flexible schedule
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Retirement plan
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Monday to Friday

Application Question(s):

• If you do not currently live on the Western Slope of Colorado, when will you be relocating here?
• How does your education and experience qualify you for Land Use planning?

Experience:

• Land Use planning: 5 years (Preferred)

Work Location: In person