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General Description
Are you looking for a challenging role within an organization that provides rewarding compensation, an excellent benefit package and career growth opportunities? If so, Lake County Government is the place for you. Comprised of nearly 3,000 employees, it is our goal to positively serve the residents of Lake County while working with a purpose. We believe our employees should take pride in the work they accomplish while truly respecting a collaborative work environment.
The Planner’s general function within the organization is to perform moderately complex work related to land use planning research, development project management and application of zoning and other regulations in the review of development proposals, communication with applicants, issuance of reports and presentation of information to the Department’s key stakeholders.
Essential Functions
Depending on the assignment, the incumbent will perform a combination of the following responsibilities, and perform related duties as assigned:
Function as development project manager for complex development projects, including subdivisions, conditional use permits, planned unit developments, zoning variances, and nonresidential site plans. Will also assist with policy development related to various planning topics and sustainability initiatives.
- Conduct development review of projects through the application of the Lake County Code (and any accompanying site inspections) including site plan and site capacity review, zoning review, and natural resource protection assessment.
- Review and analyze data on planning best practices, physical conditions, population trends, housing conditions and other social and economic factors pertaining to planning.
- Implement internal process improvements in planning and zoning administration.
- Research and draft ordinance and plan amendments.
- Assist in departmental efforts to further sustainability goals, objectives, and policies of the Lake County Board
- Utilize GIS to perform various development review and other planning functions.
- Provide staff support and present to the Zoning Board of Appeals, the Lake County Planning, Building, Zoning & Environment Committee and other key stakeholders.
- Perform all other related duties as assigned.
Knowledge Skills Abilities and Education Required
- Knowledge of the principles, practices, and methods used in the practice of land use planning, zoning administration, and sustainability.
- Ability to demonstrate and apply knowledge of such principles, practices, and methods in carrying out the essential duties above.
- Skill and ability in problem-solving, and conflict resolution; ability to exercise initiative, display independent judgement, be self-directed and self-motivated, and work with moderate supervision.
- Ability to exercise discretion and confidentiality, along with the ability to handle complex information, records, and issues.
- Skill and ability to successfully use County-specific technology and general office software and/or equipment including various permitting and archiving software.
- Maintain a high level of integrity, ethics, and professionalism with organization managers, and staff representatives of other governmental agencies, the public and others encountered in the course of work.
- Ability to communicate clearly, logically, and persuasively both verbally and in writing; ability to analyze and prepare clear, concise, and comprehensive reports, correspondence, and documents.
- Ability to develop effective working relationships with local officials, managers, clients, and team members.
Education and Experience Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Urban & Regional Planning or related field required
- Master’s degree in a related field preferred
- Valid Driver’s License supplemented by a satisfactory driving record