Planner I

Under general direction and guidance, performs a variety of planning related functions, primarily design and development review, as well as assisting on long-range planning and special projects.

• Receives and reviews moderately difficult project applications, performs design and plan reviews, applies Design Guidelines, Comprehensive Plan, Zoning, Subdivision, Annexation and other applicable policies, regulations and codes.
• Assists in the evaluation of rezoning, ordinance amendments, site plans, special use permits, variances and other proposals.
• Prepares staff reports, correspondence with other departments and applicants, and other documentation regarding projects within the City.
• Inspects construction sites and buildings under construction for compliance with land use criteria.
• Assists building technicians with all levels of plan review and site inspections for buildings under construction, remodel or repair, for compliance with appropriate design review, building, zoning, and other regulations.
• Monitors progress of assigned projects throughout project life cycle, to ensure that all requirements are completed as approved.
• Writes and present formal and technical reports, working papers and correspondences.
• Acts as liaison between community groups, government agencies, developers and elected officials in development projects and area master plans as assigned by Planning Director or City Administrator.
• Assists with strategic economic and community development or efficient land use consistent with the goals of the elected officials and community, as assigned by Planning Director or City Administrator.
• Aids citizens and customers in resolving issues and provides information regarding development projects.
• Assists Zoning Compliance Officer in review and enforcement of zoning codes.
• Presents to Planning & Zoning Commission, City Council, and other groups and committees. Evening and night meetings will be required based on project schedule.
  • Assists in and provides research for long range and master planning as assigned by Planning Director or City Administrator.
  • Works with contractors and other City staff to resolve project deficiencies.
  • Works closely with Planning Director, Public Works Director, Building Official and other City personnel to integrate the architectural design review process, engineering review and construction permitting for construction projects.
    • Cross-trains in other functions within the department as needed

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Knowledge of principles and techniques of planning, zoning and land use, comprehensive planning, and of the normal stages of property development as viewed from both the public and private sectors.
• Knowledge of basic graphics skills and data management programs.
• Knowledge of computer hardware and software programs, which may include Microsoft Office, Internet applications, and GIS.
• Ability to read, understand, and interpret technical written material, plans, diagrams, blueprints, specifications and grading plans.
• Ability to review plans and apply provisions of the ordinances and codes to determine compliance with such regulations and to apply regulations to field conditions.
• Ability to establish and maintain positive, effective working relationships with applicants, peers, superiors, and the public.
• Ability to work on multiple projects simultaneously either independently or in a team environment.
• Ability to effectively communicate in writing and verbally with individuals, citizen boards and commissions, and speak to audiences on technical and non-technical aspects of planning and development review.
• Ability to interpret and carry out Colorado’s public notice, hearing and recordkeeping procedures when needed.
• Possession of or the ability to obtain a Colorado Class Driver’s License within 30 days.

• Knowledge of principles and techniques of planning, zoning and land use, comprehensive planning, and of the normal stages of property development as viewed from both the public and private sectors.
• Knowledge of basic graphics skills and data management programs.
• Knowledge of computer hardware and software programs, which may include Microsoft Office, Internet applications, and GIS.
• Ability to read, understand, and interpret technical written material, plans, diagrams, blueprints, specifications and grading plans.
• Ability to review plans and apply provisions of the ordinances and codes to determine compliance with such regulations and to apply regulations to field conditions.
• Ability to establish and maintain positive, effective working relationships with applicants, peers, superiors, and the public.
• Ability to work on multiple projects simultaneously either independently or in a team environment.
• Ability to effectively communicate in writing and verbally with individuals, citizen boards and commissions, and speak to audiences on technical and non-technical aspects of planning and development review.
• Ability to interpret and carry out Colorado's public notice, hearing and record keeping procedures when needed.
• Possession of or the ability to obtain a Colorado Class Driver's License within 30 days.

EDUCATION:

• Training – Bachelor’s degree in planning or related field required; Master’s degree preferred.  Pursuing a degree in planning or related field with training/experience may be taken into consideration.

EXPERIENCE:

• Experience - Minimum of one (1) year experience in planning is required.

or

• Any equivalent combination of training/experience that demonstrates possession of required knowledge, skills, and abilities.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:
Possess a current and valid Colorado driver's license or ability to obtain within thirty (30) days from date of hire.

This position is working indoors completing tasks such as reading material, writing reports, papers, correspondence and other documents.  This portion of the job will require acute mental skills, a lengthy attention span and involves sitting, walking, and standing.  Work requires a high degree of manual skill, the ability to hear, focus on close work, and use hands to fingers.  Environment when requiring outdoor activity, involves occasional exposure to slippery or uneven walking surfaces, dust, dirt, heat, and cold.  The ability to communicate in a clear and concise manner both in writing and verbally are essential to this position. The City of Fort Lupton supplies a robust and diverse benefit package to reach a wide range of needs:

• Medical, Dental, Vision
• Options to choose Health Savings Account (HSA) with employer contribution, or Flexible Spending Account (FSA) with or without optional Dependent Care Spending Account
• Health Reimbursement Account (HRA)
• 414(h)  with employer contribution and optional pre or post-tax 457(b)
• FREE Telehealth option for employees/spouses/dependents available 24/7, 7 days per week
• Aflac options
• Employee Assistance Programs (EAP)
• Employer emphasis on Wellness Programs, group activities, and incentives
• Free recreation center pass 
• Education reimbursement
• Pet Insurance available for enrollment any time of year
• Credential and bi-lingual pay incentive
• Employer-paid Group Life & AD&D 
• Voluntary Life & AD&D (For self, spouse, and dependents) 
• Employer-paid Short- and Long-Term Disability 

PRE-EMPLOYMENT PROCESSES: 
The City of Fort Lupton maintains a drug free workplace, including marijuana. As a condition of employment, applicants selected for employment with the City of Fort Lupton may be required to undergo pre-employment drug testing and background check. Candidates whom are hired are subject to reasonable suspicion and post-accident testing. Some departments are also subject to random drug testing. 
Employment references may be conducted on finalist for the City of Fort Lupton vacancies. 
The maintenance of a valid license and a good driving record is required if the job duties require the operation of City vehicles or equipment or who must travel by motor vehicle in the course of City business. Applicants may be required to furnish copies of Motor Vehicle Records (less than 30 days old) when applying for positions that require a valid driver’s license.

The City of Fort Lupton is an equal opportunity employer.  We are required by state and federal agencies to keep certain statistical records on applicants.  It will not be used in any way to discriminate against you because of your sex, race, age, sexual orientation, creed, national origin, disability or military status, gender identity, unless related to a bona fide occupational qualification as defined by the Colorado Civil Rights Commission and the Equal Opportunity Commission.
You may learn more about the City of Fort Lupton at www.fortluptonco.gov.