Land Use Planner I, II, or III

Job description:

This posting is part of a multi-level recruitment for the positions of Land Use Planner I, Land Use Planner II, and Land Use Planner III. Only one position will be hired, and placement within the appropriate classification will be based on the candidate’s experience, education, and demonstrated competencies.

Job Summary
Under the general supervision of the Planning and Zoning Administrator, the Land Use Planner is responsible for coordinating the implementation of county land use ordinances and programs such as, but not limited to, feedlots, shoreland, wetlands, and assist with economic and community development initiatives.

This position reviews and evaluates development proposals, prepares staff reports and recommendations, investigates citizen complaints, issues land use permits, and presents planning matters to the Planning Commission, Board of Adjustment, and County Board as assigned. The position participates in the development and updating of comprehensive plans, ordinances, and planning studies, and provides technical assistance to the public, local officials, and partner agencies. Ensure responsive and professional service delivery to residents, businesses, and stakeholders through clear communication, problem-solving, and consistent interpretation of land use regulations.

The incumbent exemplifies the characteristics of a collaborative, innovative, and resilient work culture, modeling appropriate behavior to foster and sustain a positive work environment within the department. This position works in partnership with employees, other departments/divisions, external agencies, and the public to deliver effective and innovative services.

Duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:

Essential Functions:

• Strategic Planning. Assist with data collection, analysis, and reporting to support program evaluation and planning efforts.
• Records Management and Compliance. Prepares correspondence and maintains planning records, permit documentation, and land use case files. Prepare reports and ensure documentation complies with county procedures and regulatory requirements.
• Grant Management. Assist in developing grant applications and managing project implementation.
• Long-Range/Comprehensive Planning. Lead preparation of specific elements of the Comprehensive Plan and other planning studies such as housing, land use, or natural resource plans. Coordinate stakeholder engagement and interdepartmental review.
• Current Planning. Lead review of complex proposals and coordinate multi-department review with engineering, environmental services, and public works. Provide guidance on complex or sensitive land use inquiries and support consistent, solution-oriented service delivery.
• Zoning Administration & Enforcement. Interpret zoning regulations, investigate complaints, handle complex enforcement cases, coordinate compliance actions, enforce zoning ordinances and assist in ordinance interpretation.
• Major and Minor Subdivision Management. Review and Coordinate complex subdivision proposals and collaborate with engineering, surveyors, and public works staff.
• Environmental & Natural Resource Protection. Lead implementation of environmental and natural resource protection programs and coordinate with state agencies.
• GIS & Land Information Systems. Utilize Geographic Information Systems (GIS), including ArcGIS Pro as appropriate to the position, to support land use planning and local government operations by assisting with or performing the creation, maintenance, and analysis of spatial datasets used for comprehensive planning, zoning administration, and decision-making.
• Boards, Commissions & Public Hearings. Lead public hearings and present complex planning cases and policy recommendations.
• Community Development. Coordinate community development projects including housing initiatives, neighborhood revitalization efforts, and community improvement programs. Assist in developing grant applications and managing project implementation.
• Economic Development. Coordinate planning support for economic development initiatives including industrial development and infrastructure planning.

Land Use Planner I - Minimum Qualifications:

• High School Diploma or GED
• Associate’s degree in urban or regional planning, geography, environmental science, or related field
• Three (3) years’ experience in the preparation and implementation of city, county and/or regional comprehensive plans or official controls for land use and natural resources
• Any equivalent combination of education, experience and training which demonstrates the knowledge and abilities necessary to perform the essential duties.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in urban or regional planning, geography, environmental science, or related field.
• Experience with GIS software including Google SketchUp, ArcGIS Pro Map, Pictometry, etc.
• Experience coordinating and/or facilitating public hearings and meetings.
• Experience preparing written reports, plans, and/or procedures and manuals.

For a complete job description, qualifications or to apply, visit our website at: www.wasecacounty.gov.

To be considered as an applicant, we do require qualified applicants to complete a job application. An applicant can find the job application and instructions at: https://www.co.waseca.mn.us/jobs.aspx