Job Details

Planner I

The City of Idaho Falls is accepting applications for Planner I. In this position you will perform a variety of professional and technical duties at the working level related to land use planning and zoning. Also carries out tasks aimed at expediting the processing of land use applications and assisting engineers, architects, developers, and others throughout the development process. Responsibilities may vary by assignment but typically include reviewing development proposals for consistency with adopted standards and regulations and providing staff support and reports to various boards and commissions.

Supervision received works under the general supervision of the Assistant Planning Director and Building Official. Supervision exercised none.

The City of Idaho Falls is excited to offer an excellent opportunity for a qualified individual to join our team as a Planner I. This position provides a competitive hourly wage ranging from $25.75 to $29.90. Applicants who hold a professional planning certification such as AICP (American Institute of Certified Planners) or equivalent may be considered for a higher classification level, with a pay range of $28.00 to $32.51 per hour, depending on experience and verification of credentials. In addition to competitive wages, the City offers a robust benefits package that includes health, dental, and vision insurance, retirement contributions, paid holidays, and generous vacation and sick leave. The position will remain open until filled, with the first round of interviews beginning on November 19th.

Reviews site plans and zoning permit applications to assure compliance with zoning requirements such as use, bulk, placement, and parking ratios. Also reviews such applications and supporting documents for completeness and sufficiency of information. Authorizes issuance of Certificate of Occupancy for zoning compliance after final inspection. May review building plans for the same information as necessary. Will also occasionally review subdivision plats to assure compliance with subdivision and zoning ordinance requirements.

Acts as a liaison between the planning division and contractors, designers, and building owners. Responds to questions from residents and contractors concerning zoning and related ordinances in person, by telephone, or correspondence.

Assists in long-range planning duties as required, generally in research, data collection, code development, and some writing and layout. Assists with code development as required.

Receives and reviews variance applications for the Board of Adjustment; serves as a staff advisor to Board of Adjustment; prepares staff reports, presentations, and reasoned statements of relevant criteria and standards for Board of Adjustment. Also receives and reviews conditional use permit applications and prepares staff reports, presentations, and reasoned statements of relevant criteria and standards for such applications. Assists the GIS Analyst/Planner II in preparing basic maps for land use applications. May also review and create reports, presentations, and reasoned statements of relevant criteria and standards for other land use applications such as annexations, initial zonings, rezones, planned unit developments, etc.

Performs routine office tasks in designated program areas, including data entry, file management, copying and answering telephone.

Notifies property owners of pending action affecting their or nearby property by composing correspondence.

Assists in maintenance of the department website including posting agendas, minutes, news, information and maps.

Performs related duties as required.

Minimum qualifications include graduation from an accredited college or university with a Bachelor's degree in Urban and Regional Planning, Environmental Planning, Public Administration, or a closely related field; and one (1) year of progressively responsible experience in planning or a related field; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Preferred qualifications include possession of a professional planning certification, such as AICP (American Institute of Certified Planners) or an equivalent credential. Knowledge, skills, and abilities include working knowledge of principles and practices of planning, basic code requirements, considerable knowledge of interpersonal communication skills and telephone etiquette. Working knowledge of legal system and procedures affecting planning, zoning, and related operations of the City. Working knowledge of standard office equipment; P.C.'s and related programs, i.e. spreadsheets and word processing. Ability to learn department's automated tracking system. Some knowledge of graphic programs such as SketchUp and Adobe Creative Suite is preferred. Ability to communicate effectively, verbally and in writing; ability to read building and site plans; ability to perform more advanced mathematical computations including statistical, algebraic, and geometric, ability to develop effective working relationships with supervisors, fellow employees, contractors, inspectors and the public. Ability to work on several projects or issues simultaneously.

Special qualifications include must possess a valid Idaho driver's license.