The position of Planner I is an entry level professional planner position in the Land Development Division. The primary responsibility is for the intake and processing of development applications that will be submitted to the Metropolitan Planning Commission (MPC) Board and the Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA). Applications are also processed for site development plans that are evaluated by staff and recommendations prepared for the Executive Director’s approval. This position may also be involved in a variety of planning related activities in the Community Planning on an as needed basis. The Land Development Division is overseen by the Deputy Director at the discretion of the Executive Director. Planner I personnel assigned to this division serve under the direct supervision of the Land Development Coordinator.
EXAMPLES OF WORK PERFORMED
• Performs professional work related to a variety of planning assignments.
• Processing of submitted applications, verifies the accuracy of legal property descriptions.
• Prepares staff reports, and assists in making recommendations to the Executive Director regarding MPC and ZBA agenda items.
• Presents staff assessments of cases to the MPC and ZBA boards.
• Assist in the preparation of maps and other data necessary for processing of development applications.
• Participates in bi-weekly Pre-Application Conferences in order to receive preliminary application comments regarding site plan review from the relevant associated agency representatives.
• Evaluates or assists in the evaluation of re-zonings, ordinance text amendments, site plans, special use permits, variances and other proposals.
• Researches and processes zoning verification requests.
• Reviews and processes applications for subdivision plats.
• Reviews and processes applications for telecommunication facilities.
• Assists or acts as a liaison between community groups, government agencies, developers and elected officials in the development of neighborhood plans as needed.
• Reviews or assists in the review of development proposals and site plans for conformance with codes, plans and regulations.
• Collects a variety of statistical data and prepares reports and maps on topics such as census information, land use, other publically accessible data.
• Assists in resolving citizen and customer issues.
• Conducts field evaluations and assessments.
• Provides information to the public regarding development regulations.
• Available for occasional evening and weekend meetings.
• Performs other duties as assigned by the Executive 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, Internet applications, and GIS.
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.
• Familiarity with ArcGIS and the ability to manipulate data and prepare maps utilizing that platform.
• 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 desirable.
• 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 28, 2022 as follows: Attention:
Alan Clarke, Executive Director Shreveport/Caddo Parish 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 note: If you do not receive a confirmation e-mail confirming receipt of your documentation within 24 hours of sending, please call the number provided.
The Executive Director reserves the right to interview and make employment offers at any time during the posting period.