Assistant Planner

About the role

You are invited to bring your passion for public service and improving the Houston community to the Planning and Development Department as an Assistant Planner. Join a dynamic Planning team that is actively working to improve the built and social environments of Houston. The work we do has a lasting impact on the future of our city. Houston is a place where the cost of living is more than 25% below the top 20 metro average, and with no state income tax, home ownership is very achievable. As the fourth largest and most ethnically diverse city in the U.S., Houston has first-class access to medical care, recreation, food, festivals, sports, museums, and the performing arts.

Responsibilities

• Reviews, or assists in reviewing development proposals of limited complexity for compliance with applicable regulations.
• Provides technical assistance and professional support in the administration of specific planning programs, regulations, or ordinances.
• Performs routine administrative tasks in designated planning program areas, including data entry, file management, and responding to customer inquiries.
• Research and compiles information on a variety of planning issues from multiple sources.
• Prepares maps and other graphical representations of data of varying complexity.
• Works closely with the public on basic planning programs, requirements, or ordinances.
• Comfortable driving city vehicle for site visits or to perform any other tasks assigned.

Requirements

Education: Requires basic knowledge of planning principles and practices. Knowledge of this level is typically obtained through a Bachelor’s degree in Urban Planning, Architecture, Civil Engineering, Geography, Public Policy or an equivalent in-depth specialized training program that is directly related to the type of work being performed.

Experience: No experience required.

Working Conditions: The position occasionally requires stooping or bending. Occasional very light lifting, such as three or four reams of papers or books (up to 20 pounds or an equivalent weight) may be required. There are occasional minor discomforts from exposure to less-than-optimal temperature and air conditions. The position may involve dealing with modestly unpleasant situations, as with occasional exposure to office chemicals and/or extensive use of a video display terminal.

Qualifications

Preference shall be given to:

• Bilingual speakers
• Applicants with ability to demonstrate knowledge of planning and transportation principles