American Planning Association: Maryland Chapter

Maryland Planner
The newsletter for the Maryland Chapter of the American Planning Association.

View the latest issue: Fall 2012

Posted: 05/21/12

Planning Technician

Location: Town of La Plata, Maryland
Salary: $36,960 to $46,480
Schedule: Application review will begin on July 2, 2012

Description:

Planning Technician is an entry-level paraprofessional position. The Planning Technician devotes a significant amount of time on administrative tasks supporting Town Code mandated PCD responsibilities including development/permit review, Planning Commission (PC), Design Review Board (DRB) and Board of Appeals (BOA) processing. This position coordinates development review with Public Works, Finance and other agencies. There is interaction with the public on a regular basis to provide customer service on application for development review and other planning issues.

Responsibilities:

Provides technical assistance and information to staff and the public in the administration of specific planning programs and regulatory approval processes required by Town ordinance;

Reviews building plans and various permit applications to assure compliance with the minimum requirements for completeness of applications;

Performs assigned office tasks in designated program areas, including data entry, file management, copying and answering telephone;

Supports and maintains automated tracking systems, hard copy files and records;

Drafts narrative staff reports and recommendations of limited complexity;

Researches and compiles information on a variety of planning issues from multiple sources;

Prepares maps, charts, tables of limited complexity;

Support to Inspections, Code Enforcement staff in response to violations of planning regulations and ordinances, including site visits;

Attends public meetings, assisting other planning staff as appropriate;

Build and maintain positive working relationships with co-workers and the public using principles of good customer service and emphasizes that "Service is our Business"; and,

Other duties may be assigned.

Requirements:

Key Qualifications

To perform this job, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Education, Certification and/or Experience

The Planning Technician level generally requires, at a minimum, the completion of two years undergraduate education toward a degree in urban planning, architecture, construction management, surveying, social sciences or related field; plus two years of experience in plans and permit review, zoning administration or building code enforcement. A bachelor´s degree is preferred and may substitute for two years of experience.

Knowledge of principles and practices of planning and land use management. Excellent communication skills, both oral and written, with command of English grammar and composition, professional telephone, email, and in person etiquette.

Ability to work well with coworkers and individuals outside the organization. Ability to understand, interpret, converse, and accurately advance inquiries across varied governmental services. Ability to take direction. Ability to accomplish tasks quickly in a fast paced environment with frequent interruptions and short deadlines.

Ability to research, problem solve and perform conflict resolution.

Ability to work independently and prioritize work.

Ability to make sound decisions in a manner consistent with the essential job functions.

Technical Qualifications

Familiarity with equipment and software used in this field. Ability to use a variety of tools and equipment including but not limited to typewriter, multi-line telephone, calculator, copy machine, large scale printers/scanners, postage machine, two-way radio, architectural/engineer scale; a variety of general office equipment; computers and peripheral equipment.

Ability to work with figures including performing computational and mathematical calculation with accuracy. Proven ability to handle multiple projects and short deadlines with adherence to regulations and procedures.

Proven ability to use word processing, calendar, time management, email, data entry, data management and accounting software applications on a personal computer.

Language Skills

Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing, with residents, property owners, government officials, the general public, fellow employees, and Town officials. Must be able to listen to and interpret problems, direct inquiries to appropriate staff or resources, exercise tact and diplomacy, and make clear written and oral reports and recommendations. Ability to read and comprehend instructions, correspondence, and memos. Ability to write correspondence.

Ability to maintain a very professional atmosphere in customer service with officials, co-workers, and members of the general public in routine, emergency, or emotional situations.

Ability to exercise judgment and tact in dealing with the public and other employees.

For complete job posting: http://www.townoflaplata.org/

Contact Info:

Interested persons may obtain an application and supplementary information at:

La Plata Town Hall, 305 Queen Anne Street, La Plata, Md or www.townoflaplata.org/

The Town of La Plata is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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Planning Technician