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Associate Planner-Planning and Zoning

  • Job
    Full-time
    Junior & Mid Level
  • Government & Politics
    Architecture & Urban Planning

AI generated summary

  • You need a bachelor's in a related field, 2 years of relevant experience, knowledge of planning principles, and strong analytical skills. A master's degree and AICP certification are preferred.
  • You will review and process development applications, interpret zoning codes, conduct research, prepare reports, assist the public, and ensure compliance with city regulations and processes.

Requirements

  • Required Knowledge, Experience, And Training
  • Bachelor’s degree in city or urban planning, geography, architecture, public administration, or a closely related field and
  • 2 years of experience in urban planning, urban design, architecture or a similar field.
  • Knowledge of:
  • principles and practices of planning as they pertain to the design and development of urban and regional areas;
  • principles, standards, practices and information sources of subdivision ordinances, zoning ordinances, and comprehensive plans;
  • laws, codes, and other regulations pertinent to subdividing, planning, zoning, and community development;
  • planning research, zoning, and community renewal activities;
  • current literature and developments in planning;
  • methods used in developing information for general plan modifications;
  • application of land use, physical design, economic, environmental, and/or social concepts to the planning process;
  • source and availability of planning information, including demographic and economic data, environmental determinants of land use, land development trends, and legal requirements;
  • research methodology as applied to the collection and analysis of planning data; and
  • computer usage including related software.
  • Ability to:
  • analyze planning issues related to the entitlement process, subdivision of land, and site planning;
  • interpret policies and develop operating guidance related to urban planning laws, regulations, executive orders, and other technical material;
  • provide customer service assistance and formal recommendations relating to urban planning policies, procedures, guidelines, and/or regulations;
  • plan and implement new initiatives and promote technological advances relating to urban planning;
  • work independently in the preparation of plans and special studies;
  • prepare extensive written reports that are easily understood;
  • communicate effectively in the English language at a level necessary for efficient job performance; and
  • perform all essential functions as assigned by an authorized employee, supervisor, and/or manager with or without reasonable accommodation.
  • Individuals must be capable of operating vehicles safely and have an acceptable driving record.
  • Preferred Knowledge, Experience, And Training
  • Master’s degree in planning, geography, architecture, city or urban planning, or a closely related field and
  • 4 years of experience in architecture, professional planning, urban design or a similar field and experience in the public sector
  • Certification from American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP)
  • Licensing And Other Requirements
  • Valid state-issued driver's license.
  • Special Requirements
  • Applicants Must Be Able To Pass
  • City of Boise background check processes which includes a criminal history check and reference checks in accordance with the City of Boise Hiring Process Regulation
  • Driving Record Check
  • Education Verification

Responsibilities

  • Receives, reviews, and processes both administrative and hearing level applications for zone changes, site and design variances, subdivisions, records of survey, conditional uses, rezones, annexations, and appeals.
  • Reviews development applications for completeness and ensures all required information has been provided.
  • Reads, interprets, and applies regulatory policies, codes, and guidelines.
  • Reviews engineering plans and writes detailed technical analysis with regard to site planning and adherence to the Boise city code and comprehensive plan.
  • Conducts research regarding site locations, subdivision plat notes, property easements, and zoning codes.
  • Acts as a liaison to the associated agencies that may be impacted by a development application.
  • Reviews legal documents such as development agreements, cross access agreements, shared parking agreements, etc.
  • Ensures all public hearings are published through official public notice postings and the state and Boise code required communications are accurate and timely.
  • Uploads electronic documents, as well as organizes and maintains files.
  • Prepares detailed reports and presents applications to the hearing examiner, Planning and Zoning Commission, and city council public hearings.
  • Responds to planning and zoning related questions from the public by answering telephone calls, emails, facilitating in-person meetings, and assisting walk-in customers with questions, interpreting zoning regulations, following city code processes and procedures, etc.
  • Conducts general parcel research through the archived city records, GIS system, subdivision plats, and assessor’s records.
  • Reviews and provides feedback for development permits.
  • Complies with public information requests.
  • Ensures all information is available to the public.
  • Assists in the setup and review of early assistance applications for completeness.
  • Provides construction plan reviews and conducts inspections for final occupancy to ensure that all of the required conditions of approval have been met.
  • Reviews and releases construction bonds for completion of work.
  • Conducts presentations on current planning processes and property rights to various groups such as staff, neighborhood associations, elected officials, and professional groups.
  • Reports on trends, code interpretations and questions, and recommends efficiencies to improve customer support process.
  • Serves on or leads planning-related advisory committees on city-initiated projects.
  • Drafts municipal code.
  • Assists other planning divisions with special projects.
  • Provides comments, clarifications, and recommendations on other agency plans, policies, and codes.
  • Handles moderately complex issues and problems and refers more complex issues to higher-level staff.
  • Is capable of performing all duties of an Assistant Planner and provides team support and training, as needed.

FAQs

What are the minimum education and experience requirements for the Associate Planner position?

The minimum requirements include a Bachelor’s degree in city or urban planning, geography, architecture, public administration, or a closely related field, along with 2 years of experience in urban planning, urban design, architecture, or a similar field.

Is there an opportunity for career advancement within the Planning and Development Services?

Yes, there are opportunities for career advancement as the Associate Planner role can lead to higher-level positions within the department.

What benefits does the City of Boise provide for employees in this position?

Employees receive a lifetime-annuity pension plan with an 11.98% employer contribution, a 2% 401(k) employer match, free healthcare coverage for employees and their dependents, three weeks of vacation, 96 hours of sick time, 10 public holidays, and much more.

Are there any preferred qualifications for the Associate Planner role?

Yes, preferred qualifications include a Master’s degree in planning, geography, architecture, city or urban planning, or a closely related field, 4 years of experience in architecture or professional planning, and certification from the American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP).

What are the physical requirements for the Associate Planner position?

The position requires frequent lifting/carrying up to 10 pounds and occasional lifting/carrying up to 20 pounds. Employees will also need good sensory ability to talk and hear, as well as close vision, distance vision, and depth perception.

Will the Associate Planner have opportunities to interact with the public?

Yes, the Associate Planner will respond to planning and zoning related questions from the public, facilitate meetings, and assist walk-in customers.

What are the working hours for the Associate Planner position?

This position generally works scheduled hours during the week, with occasional evenings and weekends required to attend meetings and public hearings.

Is a valid driver's license required for this position?

Yes, a valid state-issued driver's license is required for the Associate Planner position.

Can I apply for the Associate Planner position if I do not have certification from AICP?

Yes, while AICP certification is preferred, it is not a requirement for applying to the position.

What type of projects will the Associate Planner work on?

The Associate Planner will work on projects related to zone changes, site and design variances, subdivisions, conditional uses, and other urban planning initiatives.

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Mission & Purpose

We are dedicated to creating a city for everyone. Our team is 1600 people strong and is one of the largest employers in the area. Guided by a mission that keeps us focused on our community, our environment and our economy, we are passionate professionals who dream big and work hard. Our shared values are simple and we believe in them: One City, One Team – for the Greatest Good, Community Experience with “WOW”, and lastly, There’s Nothing We Can’t Do Better. From maintaining parks, to protecting the public, to designing water renewal systems, our entire organization is driven by the knowledge that every day when we go to work, we help to enhance what is loved most about Boise for generations to come