Senior Planner

About the Role

This classification conducts specified work within the planning division, focusing on current planning, building and site plan reviews, and compliance with city ordinances and zoning codes.

Responsibilities

• Follows and promotes the policies and procedures of the City of South Fulton.
• Informs and advises the Department Director on department issues affecting the city.
• Performs current planning and building and site plan review duties, including meeting with developers to ensure compliance with the City’s Land Development Ordinance and zoning codes.
• Reviews and makes recommendations for approval of preliminary and final plats.
• Researches and prepares special projects, including impact analysis studies, data compilation, and program organization.
• Assists in developing the City-wide Capital Improvement Program associated with the Comprehensive Plan.
• Assists with preparation of planning and council meetings, including documents for bond collection and release.
• Assists with impact fee calculations and provides public assistance regarding ordinance interpretation, land-use issues, and other planning matters.
• Prepares requests for rezoning, modifications, use permits, and variance requests, and makes recommendations to relevant boards and councils.
• Prepares continuous updates to City maps and resolves resolution forms, zoning certifications, and general correspondence.
• Prepares agenda items for zoning, annexation, and variance-related matters.
• Reviews permits, conducts zoning compliance, and issues compliance letters.
• Notifies the public and property owners regarding rezoning and variances, and posts signs on properties.
• Evaluates land use proposals for compliance with applicable laws and reviews business license applications.
• Reviews residential and commercial building permits, sign permits, and site plans for compliance with regulations.
• Represents the City at public hearings and meetings, and serves as a liaison with regional authorities for Development of Regional Impact (DRI) projects.
• Attends professional development workshops and conferences to stay updated on planning trends.
• Performs special projects and other duties necessary for the day-to-day operations of the department.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in public administration, architecture, planning, engineering, or a related field.
• Three (3) years of experience in planning/zoning or permitting, or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.
• No felony convictions related to wage or identity theft, cybercrime, forgery, embezzlement, or similar offenses.
• U.S. citizenship or legal work status.
• Must meet the city’s background requirements and possess a valid Georgia driver’s license with an acceptable driving history.
• Ability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as required.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of community development principles, land disturbance operations, and the permitting process.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel, and familiarity with city planning ordinances and development standards.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints and site plans, and use city software effectively.
• Skill in coordinating complex projects, preparing correspondence, and maintaining records.
• Ability to interpret and apply federal, state, and local policies, laws, and regulations.
• Strong interpersonal skills, including the ability to work with diverse groups and maintain confidentiality.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team, and to communicate effectively in English.
• Physical ability to perform duties, including lifting up to 25 pounds and working in various environmental conditions.

Preferred Qualifications

• American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) Certification.

Working Conditions

This position primarily works in an indoor office environment but may require occasional outdoor site visits. The role involves constant deadlines, interaction with city employees, officials, vendors, and the public, and may require attendance at meetings beyond normal business hours, including holidays and weekends.

Physical Requirements

Regular use of hands, fingers, and arms; frequent standing, walking, and sitting for extended periods; occasional stooping, kneeling, and lifting up to 25 pounds. Specific vision and hearing abilities are required, and the role may involve exposure to adverse environmental conditions.

Travel

Frequent travel within the city for operations management and inspections, with infrequent overnight travel for training.

Substance Abuse Testing

Subject to pre-employment and random alcohol, drug, and controlled substance testing as per city policy.

Competencies

Annual evaluation based on job performance, ethical standards, teamwork, and other established criteria.