Salary: See Position DescriptionLocation : Wendell, NCJob Type: Full timeJob Number: 00087Department: PlanningOpening Date: 07/22/2024ClosingDate: ContinuousFLSA: Non-ExemptDescriptionThe Planner III is a newly created position and performs complex planning work in a variety of projects such as Unified Development Ordinance updates, key transportation corridor projects, assisting with Parks & Recreation parks and greenway projects, and creating the Town's first sustainability program. Work is performed independently and may include supervising the work of other staff and includes independent responsibility. This position is responsible for making presentations to the Planning Board and the Town Commissioners and a variety of meetings with Town and ETJ citizens. Planner III engages in day-to-day activities of project management, researching a variety of plans, drafting originals and data collection. The position provides development recommendations to the Planning Director, Planning Board, and Town Manager. Work also includes coordination with other departments and serving as liaison to outside agencies. Work involves providing technical guidance to boards and considerable public contact often in sensitive or emotional issues requiring judgment, firmness, and tact. Work is performed under the general supervision of the Planning Director and is evaluated through conferences, review of work results obtained, and the overall effectiveness of the planning work performed. The Planner III's main work focus is related to long range planning in implementing the comprehensive plan, transportation plan and tasks related to open space, housing and sustainability. Essential Duties and Tasks
- Serves as project manager for multi-year long range planning efforts in a variety of areas and with varying timelines; drafts language and oversees or participates in development of a variety of documents, graphics, and maps for presentation of planning in areas such as land use, zoning, transportation, housing, and development; manages processes to incorporate citizen input.
- Develops, coordinates, and recommends a variety of special and continuing plans, such as the Comprehensive Plan, Unified Development Ordinance and various small area plans related to the growth, development, open space, transportation, sustainability and redevelopment of the Town.
- Provides guidance to developers and design professionals on the consistency of their interests with Town requirements.
- Plans, facilitates, and participates in workshops, meetings, and public hearings to explain planning proposals; answers citizen questions concerning plans and problems; makes various presentations of staff recommendations and possible scenarios; coordinates the preparation or prepare computerized presentations, charts, maps, graphs, and other illustrative materials for presentation to elected officials, appointed boards, and citizens.
- Oversees or conducts research and development of ordinances, policies and procedures for the Town and the department; draft ordinances and plans; oversees content development and process for revision of the UDO.
- Works with other regional groups on various growth, open space, transportation, sustainability, and development issues including land use and transportation.
- Supervises assigned departmental staff; interviews and recommends selections; trains and supports staff; conducts performance reviews.
- Serves in the absence of Director or Assistant Director attending meetings and serving as the Department representative at regional meetings; assists Director in tasks such as coordinating employee scheduling, project tracking, technology assistance; assists or advises in pre-submittal, predevelopment and preconstruction meetings as needed.
- Performs related duties as required.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
- Extensive knowledge of the principles of municipal planning and zoning, site design principles, and the comprehensive planning process.
- Considerable knowledge of the technical ordinances, codes, and regulations pertaining to land use planning and development including the UDO, Comprehensive Plan, Town Code, and Town Policies and Procedures.
- Working knowledge of the design and operations of GIS and their specialized hardware and software applications.
- Considerable skill in the collection, analysis and presentation of technical data and planning recommendations effectively in oral and written forms.
- Considerable skill in discussing and describing issues in a clear, concise, and easily understood manner to people unfamiliar with the topic, and in group facilitation.
- Skilled in showing sound judgment in management and supervisory roles.
- Skilled in the collection, analysis and presentation of technical data and planning recommendations.
- Ability to perform field and office work required to prepare portions of studies, maps, and exhibits pertaining to land use, long-range planning, special projects and studies, plan analysis, and effects of proposed development.
- Ability to translate goals and objectives into workable plans, programs and initiate ideas and recommendations, and to manage multiple projects and timetables.
- Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees, the development community, community groups, Town officials and the public.
- Ability to organize and perform the administrative and technical support functions of the assigned boards and committees.
- Ability to organize, supervise, and direct employees.
Desirable Education and ExperienceGraduation from a college or university with a bachelor's degree in urban design, landscape architecture, geography, public administration, urban planning or related field and several years of professional experience in public sector planning; or an equivalent combination of education and experience. A master's degree in urban planning or a related field is preferred, but not required. Special Requirements
- Possession of a valid North Carolina driver's license.
- AICP certification preferred.
SALARY: Full Salary Range: $65,521 - $98,281****Anticipated Hiring Range: $76,000 - $84,000****The Town of Wendell is an equal opportunity employer. We have a great benefit package that includes retirement, town paid insurance including dental and vision, vacation and sick time and holiday leave (12 days per year). We participate in the local government retirement system as well as contribute to employees 401-K plans. Our employment package is extensive and competitive.