The Assistant Planner performs administrative and technical work in support of planning and development services for the City of Mercer Island.
Work is performed under limited supervision with moderate latitude in the use of initiative and independent judgment. Position relies on experience to determine the best approach by using and interpreting policies and procedures.
This is a limited-term position (LTE) through December 31, 2026.The essential functions listed are typical examples of work performed by positions in this job classification. Specific duties and responsibilities may vary depending on department or program needs without changing the general nature and scope of the job or level of responsibility.
- Accepts applications for development, enters data into a computer, and checks commercial and residential development plans to determine compliance with land use and zoning requirements.
- Interprets information, answers questions, and provides information to the public involving zoning, environmental codes, and comprehensive plan.
- Processes and reviews ministerial and administrative permits, as defined by MICC 1915010.
- Reviews and interprets plans, specifications, and documents pertaining to permits for compliance with specific codes.
- Assists in preparing revisions to the Zoning Code, Comprehensive Plan, and other regulatory and policy documents, including collection of data.
- Conducts land use planning reviews to ensure compliance with zoning requirements related to setbacks, lot coverage, and other applicable zoning regulations.
- Prepares legal notices, documentation, and various administrative reports.
- Performs research for planning and building-related matters.
- Assists with processing right-of-way permits and encroachment agreements.
- Makes field visits, retrieves land use signs, takes pictures of sites, etc.
- Provides technical assistance for code compliance.
- Provides backup for Permit Services Team as needed.
- Conducts pre-application conferences with property owners, developers, and City staff, ensuring that they are informed of City requirements, processes, and deadlines.
- Attends and participates in professional group meetings; stays abreast of new trends and best practices.
- Responds to inquiries, questions, and comments from the general public per established standards and protocols.
- Maintains strict confidentiality of restricted information.
- Ensures adherence to all established City policies, procedures, and protocols.
- Attends evening and/or weekend meetings and events based on organizational responsibilities and/or requirements.
- When required by management, responds to Emergency Operations Center to support the City’s response during an emergency.
Supervisory Responsibilities
- This position has no supervisory responsibilities.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Education equivalent to a bachelor’s degree in planning, architecture, urban design, geography, or related field; supplemented by some previous experience working in an office environment; or an equivalent combination of education, certification, training, and/or experience.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Education and experience in Geographical Information Systems (GIS).
- Working knowledge of the principles and practices of land use planning and their application to varied development projects, and the environmental issues surrounding land use and development.
- Demonstrable experience in the review of site plans and the interpretation of zoning and design regulations as related to site development.
LICENSURE/CERTIFICATION
- Valid WA State Driver’s License with a driving record free from frequent or serious violations. A three (3) year driving record abstract must be submitted prior to hire.
- Completion of NIMS ICS-100, 200, and 700, within the first six months of employment.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
- Basic knowledge of urban design principles and practices.
- Basic knowledge of Washington State Law related to local government planning.
- Skill in analyzing a situation, assessing alternative solutions, and recommending an effective course of action.
- Skill in negotiation, arbitration, and conflict resolution.
- Skill in the use of Microsoft Office products (Word, Outlook, and Excel) and applicable department/organization-specific software and ability to learn and become proficient in the use of other specialized software as may be required.
- Ability to learn department policies and procedures for the preparation, production, and maintenance of reports, documentation, and records.
- Ability to learn about the Washington State Growth Management acts (GMA) and the State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA).
- Ability to clearly communicate and understand complex and technical concepts in English, both orally and in writing.
- Ability to independently perform research and analysis.
- Ability to articulately and persuasively present and defend technical and controversial decisions and proposals, orally and in writing.
- Ability to analyze and diagnose problems as well as research and interpret maps, codes, regulations, standards, plans and specs, legal descriptions, and various governmental documents.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities to ensure that deadlines are met.
- Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with those interacted with during work regardless of race, color, religious creed, national origin, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, genetic information, disability, political affiliation, military service, or diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds.
- Ability to commute independently to and from work and arrive punctually for designated work schedule (virtually or in person), including to community meetings and events.
PHYSICAL, ENVIRONMENTAL, AND SENSORY REQUIREMENTS
Depending on functional area of assignment, tasks involve the ability to exert light physical effort in sedentary to light work, which may involve some lifting, carrying, pushing and/or pulling of objects and materials of light weight (up to 20 pounds). Tasks may involve extended periods of time at a keyboard or workstation and extended periods of time standing and/or walking.
Tasks are regularly performed inside without exposure to adverse environmental conditions (e.g., dirt, cold, rain, fumes).
Some tasks require manual dexterity, in addition to visual and hearing acuity. Some tasks may involve identifying and distinguishing colors. Some tasks require the ability to perceive and discriminate visual cues or signals. Some tasks require the ability to communicate orally and in writing.
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