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DEFINITION

Performs professional level work in the field of urban planning and performs related duties as assigned.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS

This is the journey level class in the professional planning series. Positions in this class are expected to have a general knowledge, abilities and experience to perform the full range of professional planning work involving the application of professional knowledge and skills to various municipal planning and zoning problems. Responsibilities include the preparation of specific reports and plans with opportunity for independent judgment in planning work details and making technical determinations.

The Assistant Planner is distinguished from the Associate Planner in that the position requires less specialized knowledge of statutory requirements and planning standards and receives greater direction.         

ADVANCEMENT TO ASSOCIATE PLANNER

Upon completion of probation as an Assistant Planner the incumbent may have an opportunity to automatically advance to Associate Planner provided the incumbent meets the requirements, and demonstrates a readiness to perform at the higher level.  More importantly, the City Manager and Finance Director must approve such advancement based on the current financial condition of the City.

Special note:  Please refer to Associate Planner Class specification for detailed summary of job duties and requirements.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXCERCISED 

Direction is provided by the City Planner.  Assignment may require direct or functional supervision of clerical or para professional positions.

EXAMPLES OF ESSENTIAL DUTIES: 

• Participates in activities of long-range and current planning as they relate to urban land use. 
• Compiles, analyzes and interprets data relating to urban land use, population, and related social and economic characteristics of the City; computes statistical documentation. 
• Provides technical and research assistance in a variety of special studies and general planning/zoning code amendments.
• Answers inquiries from the public, reviews development proposals for compliance with appropriate regulations.
• Prepares environmental documents in compliance with CEQA.
• Prepares written reports and makes oral presentations before community groups and Planning Commission. 
• Inspects projects in the field to ensure compliance with various related regulations.
• Assists in graphic support and presentation
• Represents the Planning Department at citizens' meetings to inform them of various plans and projects.
• Provides information and assistance to developers, property owners and the public regarding basic laws, regulations, policies, standards and procedures with respect to the submission of plans, processing of applications, and implementation requirements.
• Reviews, investigates and processes various plans and applications for subdivision, housing and commercial and industrial developments, variances, conditional use permits and business licenses.
• Determines conformity with laws, policies, regulations and procedures.     
• Performs related duties as assigned.
   

QUALIFICATIONS

Knowledge of:

• Principles, techniques, objectives and practices of urban planning.
• Basic statistics, economics, sociology and public administration related to urban planning.
• California State Planning Zoning Laws and California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA).
• Application of land use, physical design, economic, environmental, and/or social concepts to the planning process and community trends.

• Analyze and compile technical and statistical data to prepare reports.
• Communicate clearly and concisely, orally and in writing.
• Interpret planning and zoning programs to the general public.
• Perform professional planning work with a minimum of supervision.
• To effectively establish and maintain a good rapport and working relationship with those encountered in the course of work including the general public.
• Demonstrate leadership qualities by working responsibly; taking the initiative to achieve work outcomes; function as a team player; and utilize collaborative problem solving techniques/strategies. 
• Exercise sound judgment within established guidelines and supervisory direction.

• A Bachelor's Degree from an accredited college or university with major study in urban planning, architecture, public administration or a related field considered relevant to city planning work.
• A Master's Degree in urban planning or related field may substitute for six months of the required experience.   

• A minimum of one year of administrative experience in professional planning preferably with a state, county, or municipal agency.

• Possess and maintain a valid Class C California driver's license.
  
   

THE SELECTION PROCESS:

• For consideration in this job opportunity, submit a completed City of Baldwin Park employment application. Apply immediately!
• Applications may be accompanied by a resume describing experience, education, and/or training in relation to the requirements of the position, but will not be accepted in lieu of a completed application.
• All applications will be reviewed in detail and the most highly qualified applicants will be invited to continue in the selection process. Failure to state all pertinent information may lead to elimination from the competition.
• This selection process will consist of an Application Evaluation (Qualifying) and Appraisal Interviews (100%).
• The successful candidate will be required to undergo a background check which includes fingerprinting, pre-employment medical examination, including a drug/alcohol screening; and must be able to establish both work authorization & identity.