The Shreveport Metropolitan Planning Commission (MPC) is an independent agency enabled by Louisiana State statute to manage the orderly development of the City of Shreveport. The agency is governed by a nine member citizen board comprised of appointees of the local governing bodies. The board delegates the authority for land development regulation and community planning along with zoning enforcement operations of the agency to the board appointed Executive Director.
GENERAL DESCRIPTION
The position of Planner I is an entry-level professional planner position in the Community Planning Division. The primary responsibility is to assist in the planning activities associated with the implementation of the 2030 Great Expectations Master Plan, as well as other community planning efforts. Planner personnel within the Community Planning Division serve at the discretion of the Executive Director and the Deputy Director, under the direct supervision of the Community Planning and Design Manager.
Work Performed is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills. They are intended to be accurate summaries of what the job classification involves and what is required to perform it. The omission of specific statements or duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the position.
• Performs professional work related to a variety of planning assignments.
• Evaluates or assists in the evaluation of plans and initiatives associated with the comprehensive plan.
• Assists or acts as a liaison between community groups, government agencies, developers and elected officials in the development of neighborhood plans as needed.
• Collects a variety of statistical data and prepares reports and maps on topics such as census information, land use, other publicly accessible data.
• Assists in resolving citizen and customer issues as it relates to community planning initiatives.
• Develops planning studies and reports of new and updated plans and programs.
• Prepares and presents detailed reports to appointed and elected officials.
• Conducts field evaluations and assessments.
• Provides information to the public regarding the comprehensive plan and community planning initiatives.
• Available for a substantial number of evening and weekend meetings.
• Utilize GIS data to analyze and evaluate and develop community plans.
• Develops maps and other illustrative drawings associated with community plans.
• Performs other duties as assigned by the Executive Director or Deputy Director.
Education and Experience
The Planning I position requires a bachelor’s degree in urban planning, architecture, GIS, public policy or related field and one year of professional planning experience. Educational accreditation beyond the minimum educational requirement may be considered in lieu of the required planning experience. Combinations of education and experience equivalent with the minimum requirement (in the required fields) may be considered at the discretion of the Executive Director. Applicants that are eligible to obtain AICP Certification are preferred. Must have strong communication and customer service skills as well as experience with research and compiling data for reports associated with development review. Experience working in a governmental entity is preferred.
Knowledge
• Knowledge of the philosophies, practices & techniques of planning.
• Knowledge of a relevant specialization such as transportation, land use, or affordable housing is desired.
• Knowledge of principles and practices of research and collection.
• Knowledge of effective writing techniques.
• Statistical, algebraic, or geometric knowledge and ability to apply such knowledge in practical situations.
• Knowledge of computer hardware and software programs, which include Microsoft Office, Adobe Creative Suite, and GIS.
• Basic knowledge of Architectural History is desired.
Skills and Abilities
• Oral communication and interpersonal skills to explain rules and procedures clearly to the public.
• Creative problem-solving skills to gather relevant information to solve vaguely defined practical problems.
• 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 create graphic designs, development strategies and render site plans via sketches and/or computer graphics is highly desirable.
• Ability to work on several projects or issues simultaneously.
• Ability to work independently or in a team environment as needed.
• Ability to attend to details while keeping big-picture goals in mind.
• Interpersonal skills for facilitating relationships with elected/appointed officials or other decision makers.
• Group facilitation skills for use with community workshops required.
• Ability to manage projects effectively and meet firm deadlines.
• Consistently demonstrates respect, responsiveness, and professionalism towards others while providing superior service for customers.
• Works effectively with colleagues, subordinates, and supervisors from all backgrounds and levels.
A letter of interest, resume, six professional references, and salary history will be accepted by e-mail or postal service until the COB on Friday, February 25, 2022 as follows:
ATTENTION:
Alan Clarke, Executive Director
Shreveport MPC
505 Travis Street, Suite 440
Shreveport, LA 71101
Contact Person: Emily Trant
Phone: (318) 673-6498
Fax: (318) 673-6461
emily.trant@shreveportla.gov
• Please reference “Planner I” on the envelope or in the subject line of the e-mail.
• If you do not receive a confirmation e-mail confirming receipt of your documentation within 24 hours of sending, please call the number provided.
• MPC reserves the right to interview and make employment offers anytime during the posting period.