City Planner - City of Pittsfield

Job Description

JOB TITLE:                           CITY PLANNER

DEPARTMENT:                   DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

EMPLOYMENT TYPE:        FULL-TIME/EXEMPT

UNION/NON-UNION:        NON-UNION

Manages the planning and development division of the Department of Community Development.  Responsible for day-to-day oversight of the City’s Zoning Ordinance and Subdivision Regulations, development of planning studies and other related duties as may be assigned by the Director.

We are an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer committed to promoting a multicultural work force, excellence in public service, and on-going mutual respect in our working relationships. We strongly encourage people of color, people with disabilities, LGBTQ individuals, bilingualists, and people from other underrepresented groups to apply for our open positions - recognizing and respecting that diverse perspectives and experiences are valuable to our team and essential to our public service. 

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Administration of zoning and subdivision activities in the City; including but not limited to:
• Reviewing, processing and evaluating zoning requests, site plan reviews, special permits, and subdivision and development permits
• Preparing public notices and Board packages
• Coordinating with appropriate City officials
• Providing information and assistance to the public seeking information regarding the City’s zoning and subdivision regulations and processes or other work relating to the Community Development Board, City Council, Zoning Board of Appeals or this position
• Maintenance of the City’s zoning, subdivision and sign ordinances and official zoning map, including ensuring its availability to the general public and identifying deficiencies and proactively addressing such in collaboration with the Director, Community Development Board, Mayor and City Council
• Provides staff and technical support to the Community Development Board, City Council, Zoning Board of Appeals, Community Preservation Committee, Historical Commission, and, as requested, the Agricultural Commission
• Communication with the Director (and other city officials as appropriate) about proposed and ongoing planning and development projects
• Administration of Demolition Delay Ordinance on behalf of the Historical Commission, including the facilitation of historical research on structures proposed to be demolished that require the approval of the Historical Commission
• Implementation of the City’s Comprehensive and/or Master Plan
• Conducts planning, land use and zoning analysis
• Administration of the City’s Community Preservation Act fund, as well as management of the annual project solicitation process through the Community Preservation Committee
• Compilation of socio-economic and demographic data for the community and preparation of special reports as may be appropriate
• Initiation and conduct of studies or special projects, as they relate to land use, zoning, or development issues or as directed by the Director 
• Maintenance of accurate, complete and organized files and records pertaining to planning and zoning and other functions of the job
• Participation on behalf of the City in Berkshire Regional Planning Commission committees, studies, and reports
• Performance of all related duties as may be required or assigned by the Director

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited college or university in urban planning, urban studies, city/regional planning, land use planning or closely related field
• Minimum of three year’s work experience in municipal planning office with direct involvement in the administration of zoning and subdivision regulations
• Working knowledge of zoning and subdivision laws and procedures
• Knowledge of practices and procedures in all phases of urban planning
• Familiarity with engineering, surveying and drafting concepts and principles and ability to read and interpret engineering, surveying, and architectural drawings and plans
• Experience in writing grant applications and administering/reporting on the use of said funds 
• Knowledge of and ability to use such computer software programs as Microsoft Office
• Exemplary interpersonal skills; Ability to communicate clearly and effectively, both orally and in writing, including the ability to write business letters, short analyzes, and reports, and to make presentations to small or large audiences
• Organizational skills for both maintaining a clean work area and project files as well as for scheduling and completing work tasks and assignments in a timely fashion
• Ability to work with a minimum of supervision but open and responsive to direction from management
• Must possess a valid driver’s license

Preferred qualifications:

• Certification with the American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP)
• Familiarity and experience with Massachusetts land use regulations
• Master’s Degree from an accredited college or university in urban planning, urban studies, city/regional planning, land use planning or closely related field. 
• Knowledge of and ability to use ArcGis or other Geographic Information System software

DIRECT REPORTS

Permitting Coordinator

WORKING CONDITIONS

This is an office-based job in a dynamic municipal building. While performing the duties of the Planner, the incumbent is required to: interact and communicate frequently with the public, government officials, other staff members and boards, and/or third parties transacting business with the City. May require attendance at public meetings outside of regular business hours, as well as City-sponsored events on nights and weekends.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Operates standard office equipment including computers and keyboards, at efficient speed; and move throughout the municipal building which may include flights of stairs. Lifts/moves objects weighing up to 10-20 pounds. Most duties are performed in normal office setting or at meetings, but some fieldwork is required from time to time. Fieldwork is generally outdoors in a variety of weather conditions, including inclement weather. Duties may require moderate physical exercise such as walking through wooded areas, wetlands, hilly terrain and construction sites.

HOURS

8:30am-4:00pm Monday – Friday

35 Hours per week

SALARY

$71,542.60 - $93,005.39 annually

APPLICATION DEADLINE: 

Applications accepted until position is filled. 

TO APPLY: 

Visit our careers site, https://jobs.keldair.com/cityofpittsfield

Company Description

The City of Pittsfield is the cultural, commercial, legal, and medical center of the Berkshires – a region renowned for its wonderful people, outstanding standard of living, beautiful landscapes, and the finest in cultural and recreational attractions.

We are an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer committed to promoting a multicultural work force, excellence in public service, and on-going mutual respect in our working relationships. Minorities are encouraged to apply.

We strongly encourage people of color, people with disabilities, LGBTQ community, and people from other underrepresented groups to apply for our open positions - recognizing and respecting that diverse perspectives and experiences are valuable to our team and essential to our public service.

Benefits

• Health Insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Life Insurance
• Retirement Savings Plan
• Up to 14 paid Holidays
• Personal Days
• Vacation Time
• Earned Sick Leave
• Employee Assistance Program
• Tuition Reimbursement