Virginia Tech School of Public and International Affairs

Position: Planner Classification: Non-Exempt, Full-Time

Department: Planning Reports to: Planning Director

Posting Date: April 1, 2024 Application Deadline: Until filled

Position Grade: Grade 12 Rate of Pay: $25.42/hour

Position Schedule: Mon – Fri 8am – 5pm 

Benefit Eligible: Full Benefits/PERS

Job Summary:

The Planner performs professional planning activities involving planning, subdivision review, subdivision exemption review, open lands and conservation easement review, project oversight and special projects; and performs related work as assigned.

Benefits:

• Paid Holidays
• 15 days Paid Vacation
• Competitive benefits package including, retirement savings plans and health insurance

Supervisory Responsibilities:

None

Travel Required:

Travel within Ravalli County

Duties/Responsibilities:

• Assists in administering and updating the County’s Subdivision Regulations, Open Lands Bond Program, Floodplain Regulations, Citizen-Initiated Zoning Regulations and other planning related regulations.
• Monitors the activity of the State legislature; provides analysis, input and interpretation on proposed and codified legislation.
• Provides information to the public and answers questions relative to planning programs and resolutions.
• Prepares and assists in the preparation of staff reports for various boards pertaining to administrative applications for subdivision, zoning, and other regulatory programs. Applies interpretations of subdivision regulations and state law with assistance from Planning Director.
• Makes preparations for and attends board and committee meetings relative to project work, provides information and/or meets with civic groups or individuals to explain general planning goals or specific projects, prepares communications and documents regarding planning board recommendations and actions.
• Manages off-premise outdoor advertising ordinance and wireless communications ordinance and permits applications for compliance with same.
• Assists the Director in formulating department goals, objectives, policies, and strategies.
• Prepares regulatory and policy revisions and manages public participation proceedings related thereto.
• Develops, coordinates and manages special projects as directed by the Planning Director, Planning Board and County Commissioners.
• From time-to time, will provide front office reception and assistance to public customers over the phone, via email, and by written letter.
• Interfaces effectively with elected officials, advisory board members, general public, consultants, staff, and representatives of other public and private agencies.
• May perform general clerical support.
• Prepares letters, memoranda, and other written correspondence relative to Department matters.
• Represents the Department as directed at meetings with citizens, elected officials and other organizations.

Required Skills/Abilities:

• Modern office administration and knowledge of standard computer word processing applications; computer software programs for local planning including such as ESRI ArcView GIS.
• Advanced knowledge of research techniques, particularly those used in community planning and development
• Reads and interprets site plans, plat layouts and building plans.
• Understands proper implementation of planning projects.
• Deals effectively with the public and promotes effective public relations.
• Communicates clearly, concisely and effectively, both orally and in writing.
• Establishes and maintains effective working relationships with staff, employees, supervisors, county officials, appointed boards, other agencies, and the public.
• Operates vehicles and office equipment in a safe manner.
• Exemplifies strong organizational skills and the ability to prioritize and manage multiple tasks.
• Perform a full range of professional planning assignments in a county setting.
• Compose planning reports, technical studies, and other planning-related documentation.
• Accurately interpret County and State regulations.
• Communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
• Establish and maintain cooperative and productive working relationships with the public and staff.
• Formulate effective goals, objectives, strategies, policies and programs.
• Handle multi-faceted tasks simultaneously and meets deadlines.
• Work independently.
• Plan and organize comprehensive research studies and formulate recommendations.
• Conduct research and write technical reports.

Required Education and Experience:

Bachelor’s Degree in planning or related field

Preferred Education and Experience:

• AICP certification desirable
• Master’s Degree in Planning or related field

Additional Eligibility Requirements:

Valid driver’s license

Work Environment:

Attends occasional evening meetings.

Physical Requirements:

• Prolonged periods of sitting, standing and working on a computer.
• Must be able to lift up to 25 pounds at times.

Affirmative Action/EEO Statement

Ravalli County is an equal employment opportunity employer (EEO). Ravalli County does not refuse employment or discriminate in compensation or the other terms, conditions, and privileges of employment based upon race, color, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, marital status, pregnancy, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, political beliefs, genetic information, or veteran’s status.

Other Duties:

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.