Planner - Urban Planning

_As a condition of employment all employees must pass a post offer criminal history background check, physical examination and drug screen. All employees must also submit proof of identity and employment eligibility._ **Job Description:** The Planner performs entry-level professional planning support within the Department of Planning and Urban Development. The role is responsible for assisting with **development review, zoning compliance, and building permit review**, ensuring that development proposals comply with adopted plans, zoning regulations, and applicable development standards. This position supports both **planning review and building permit review functions**, helping coordinate development approvals between planning, building inspections, and other Unified Government departments. The Planner I also assists the public, developers, and internal staff with zoning and land-use inquiries. **Essential Duties and Responsibilities** Development Review * Review development applications including site plans, plats, rezonings, and special use permits for compliance with zoning and land-use regulations. * Assist in evaluating development proposals against the Comprehensive Plan and applicable planning policies. * Prepare staff reports and recommendations for internal review and presentation to the Planning Commission. * Provide zoning interpretation and guidance to applicants, property owners, and the public. * Assist with research, mapping, and data collection related to planning initiatives. **Building Permit and Zoning Review** ------------------------------------- * Conduct zoning compliance reviews for building permit applications. * Verify setbacks, lot coverage, height limits, parking requirements, and permitted uses. * Coordinate permit review with building inspection, engineering, fire, and public works departments. * Identify zoning or land-use issues prior to permit approval and communicate required corrections to applicants. * Maintain accurate records of permit reviews and approvals in the permitting system. **Customer Service and Public Assistance** ------------------------------------------ * Respond to public inquiries regarding zoning regulations, land use, and development procedures. * Assist residents, developers, and contractors in navigating permitting and development processes. * Participate in meetings with applicants to discuss development proposals and permit requirements. **Research and Administrative Support** --------------------------------------- * Assist with updates to zoning regulations, development standards, and planning documents. * Support long-range planning initiatives and neighborhood planning projects. * Prepare maps, graphics, and documentation using GIS and planning software. * Maintain records related to planning cases and permit reviews. **Qualifications:** Bachelor's degree in planning, Landscape Architecture, Urban Planning, or a closely related field and two years' experience performing professional level planning and activities; or an equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential duties of the job such as those listed above. Education **Preferred Qualifications:** * 0–2 years of experience in urban planning, land-use regulation, development review, or related work. * Internship experience with a municipal planning department is preferred. * familiarity with floodplain regulations and flood hazard mapping. · Basic understanding of the Federal Emergency Management Agency floodplain standards and the National Flood Insurance Program. · Experience using GIS or mapping software. · Coursework or training in floodplain management, hydrology, or hazard mitigation. · Interest in pursuing professional certification such as Certified Floodplain Manager (CFM) through the Association of State Floodplain Managers. **Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities** * Basic knowledge of urban planning principles, zoning regulations, and land use processes. * Ability to review plans and identify zoning compliance issues. * Strong customer service and communication skills. * Ability to interpret maps, site plans, and construction drawings. * Organizational skills and ability to manage multiple permit reviews simultaneously. * Ability to work collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams. **Working Conditions** * Primarily office-based with occasional field inspections or site visits. * Regular interaction with the public, developers, engineers, and contractors. * May require attendance at evening meetings such as Planning Commission meetings. Salary Range: $27.54 - $36.83/hr. _The Unified Government of Wyandotte County/Kansas City, Kansas is an Equal Opportunity Employer and values an inclusive workforce._ **If you need to reach a member of the Human Resources staff, please call (913) 573-5660 or email [email protected].** Company: Unified Government of Wyandotte County/Kansas City, KS