Purpose Of Position

The primary function of this senior-level planning position is to follow Local, State and Federal policies to perform current and long-range planning activities including permit review, data research and analysis, public meeting coordination, preparation of staff reports, and assisting the public with development policies. The Senior Planner exercises greater independence and judgment than a Planner, receiving general supervision from the Planning Director.

Essential Functions

1. Responsible for carrying out the day to day activities of the City of Tyler Planning Department.
2. Provides technical assistance and information of moderate to high complexity to staff and the public in the administration of specific planning programs areas or ordinances.
3. Develops and implements community engagement activities, plan public engagement events, and manages internal and external communications. Assists in promoting and participating in public education and awareness of urban planning.
4. Manages special projects and reviews including but not limited to TABC distance verification, SOB inspections and billboard cap and reduce monitoring.
5. Provides internal and external customer service on planning issues. 
6. Manages the development of various (short and long range) plans and their implementation through the zoning ordinance, subdivision regulations and other regulations.
7. Researches and compiles information on a variety of planning issues from multiple sources.
8. Reviews building permits, sign permits, landscaping plans and site plans 
9. Prepares narrative staff reports and recommendations of moderate to high complexity, such as special use permits, zoning, plats and variances.
10. Provides assistance with regard to zoning, legal descriptions, public hearings, etc. following State/Local Government regulations to meet legal deadlines.
11. Prepares maps, charts, tables of high complexity.
12. Provides supervisory support to the "Planner On Duty" for customer support purposes. 
13. Supervises and trains junior planners.
14. Supervises helpers, assistants, interns, and temporary employees.
15. Coordinates with GIS department on updates to data.
16. Attends Predevelopment meetings.
17. Consults with employees, developers and surveyors on development policies.
18. Prepares public notices, mailing lists, and property owner verifications.
19. Accepts applications and preparing case files for zoning, plat and variance requests.
20. Investigates violations of planning regulations and ordinances, including site visits and manages their resolution.
21. Presents at public meetings, supervising other planning staff as appropriate.
22. Performs routine office tasks in designated program areas, including data entry, file management, copying and answering telephone.
23. Develops and maintains automated tracking systems, hard copy files and records.
24. Performs other duties as assigned.

SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE AND ABILITIES:

1. Exercises excellent problem solving and critical thinking skills.
2. Possesses strong understanding of planning practices and principles.
3. Possesses strong ability to collect data and use analytical thinking.
4. Possesses strong writing skills.
5. Knows the principles, practices and techniques of zoning and subdivision ordinances.
6. Is fluent in and has the ability to train others on mapping software (e.g. Arc GIS). 
7. Is fluent in the operation of a personal computer, copier, printer, calculator, recording equipment and multi-line phone system.
8. Is fluent in and has the ability to train others on Windows, word processing spreadsheets, and database programs.
9. Has the ability to make reasonable interpretations when needed.
10. Has the ability to prioritize time and items for timely completion of projects.
11. Follows established laws, ordinances and staff policies.
12. Has the ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships. 
13. Has the ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing.
14. Has the ability to sit 6 hours daily; bend, stoop, walk, and stand occasionally.

Minimum Qualifications

Education and Experience  Bachelor's Degree in Geography, Urban Planning or related field and three (3) years' experience in a related field, or an equivalent combination of training, education, and experience.  Must possess a valid Texas Class "C" Driver's License, with clear driving record.