PLANNING TECHNICIAN 
Category: Full-Time

Status: Open
Salary: Min. $18.999 - Mid $23.747
Published: April 3, 2024
Closing: Open Until Filled

DEFINITION
The Planning Technician is an entry level position in the urban and regional planning field. This position devotes a significant amount of time to administrative tasks that support the Planning and Development Department. Additionally, the Planning Technician is responsible for processing general planning applications as assigned and interacts daily with the general public to provide responsive customer service.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS
This class is distinguished from the general clerical classes by the more complex, responsible, and sensitive duties related to assisting a Division Manager or group of Division Managers. 

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED
Receives general supervision from the Planning Manager.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS
Review various application submittals to ensure compliance with the minimum requirements for completeness and approval.

• Serve as primary contact for the Planning Division with residents, developers, and the general public at the front counter and on the telephone.
• Assist the Planning Division with specific planning programs and regulatory approval processes including subdivision plats, development site plans, variances, and other zoning applications.
• Prepare staff reports as necessary and assist with the preparation of maps, charts, spreadsheets, tables, and other graphics to supplement department staff reports.
• Participate in the scheduling and preparing for weekly PAC meetings.
• Research, compile, and analyze data for special projects and reports for the Department; prepare and submit routine reports.
• Work with various Boards, Commissions and Committees and attend related meetings after hours; prepare minutes of meetings and maintain records for permanent file. 
• Build and maintain positive working relationships with co-workers and the public and demonstrate high quality customer service skills.
• Perform office tasks, including application tracking, document, and file management, copying, scanning, and electronic filing.
• Assist other departments and outside parties with a variety of requests including identifying property legal descriptions, addresses, flood zones, utility easements and rights-of-way, and other land use related topics.
• Perform other related duties and responsibilities as required.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
For indefinite periods of time - mobility within an office environment; walking; twisting body; stooping; standing; sorting; sitting; seeing; pushing, pulling, lifting, and carrying up to 20 pounds; decision making; reaching above shoulder level; using both hands for simple and firm grasping; clarity of hearing; communicating clearly and effectively; operation of personal computer, calculator, and telephone.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Ability to perform essential job functions under limited supervision.
• Possess a basic understanding of the land use planning profession.
• Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.
• Work cooperatively within the department and with other departments and outside agencies.
• Work proficiently in Microsoft Office Programs.

TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE
Bachelor’s degree in urban planning or related field is required, along with knowledge of principles and practices of planning and land use management. Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, with command of English grammar and composition, professional telephone, email, and in-person etiquette. Presentation skills are a plus.

LICENSES AND CERTIFICATES
Possession of a valid Class "C" Texas Drivers License.

The City of La Porte is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer of Qualified Individuals.