Employer: City of Lake Stevens
Job Type: Full Time
Job Number: 2021-00012
Division: Planning
Salary: $6,551.60 - $8,289.94 Monthly
Location: Lake Stevens, WA
Opening Date: 04/26/2021
Closing Date: Open Until Filled; First review 05/10/2021

Job Description:

This position is open until filled. First review of applications will be May 10, 2021. Interviews will be conducted on May 20th. A writing sample is required at time of application. Candidates will be required to make a presentation as part of the interview process. Are you an experienced municipal planner who's interested in Current Planning and Long Range Planning with Code writing, Comprehensive Plans, special plans, and annexations? Are you seeking diversity in your work in a hybrid office/remote work environment? The City of Lake Stevens is for you!

Position Purpose: This is an advanced professional level position. Responsibilities involve planning, coordinating and participating in activities which require analysis of complex issues, program administration and/or coordination with other divisions, outside agencies and the public, and providing responsible and complex staff support. Work is performed under general direction from the Planning Manager with initiative, discretion and independent judgment in the performance of duties based on extensive knowledge of city policies, procedures, operations, and planning methodology. Typical assignments may include review of land use proposals for consistency with adopted codes, managing long-range planning projects including Comprehensive Plan and Code amendments, and providing analysis of varying policy documents. This class is distinguished from Associate Planner by the level of complexity of work, including project management, level of expertise exercised in completing assignments, and independence required to complete projects.

Job Duties:

Essential duties may include but are not limited to:

  • Perform long-range planning activities such as Comprehensive Plan, subarea and/or master planning, Shoreline Master Program, SEPA reviews, zoning and subdivision ordinances, and specific community development projectsConduct detailed planning studies including urban growth analysis, development regulation comparisons, statistical analyses, and opinion surveys
  • Update demographic and employment forecasts, environmental assessments, and growth management benchmarks; make reports on diverse professional subjects including population, housing, economy, and environmental quality
  • Lead team efforts related to the preparation of Environmental Impact Statements and environmental checklists pursuant to the State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA). Develop appropriate mitigation measures and provide the local SEPA Official with recommendations concerning environmental threshold determinations
  • Represent the city and present oral reports at public hearings; provide staff support to a variety of boards and commissions; provide background and technical assistance to boards and committee members; attend and participate in professional groups and committees
  • Direct and/or perform current planning activities such as compliance review of land use and other development permit applications consistent with local, state and federal legal requirements
  • Coordinate community participation processes and staff citizen advisory committees
  • Conduct design reviews and make recommendations to the DirectorEnsure timely coordination of permit application reviews among other reviewing agencies, applicants, the public, and other city departments
  • Assist the public and the Community Development Director by interpreting and applying Comprehensive Plan policies, land use ordinances and related environmental laws
  • Answer inquiries of and be available to the public and other planning agencies regarding information on the City's land use planning, development codes and permit review process
  • Maintain professional expertise by attending appropriate conferences and seminars from time-to-time
  • Perform the duties of subordinate personnel as needed
  • Other duties as assigned

The duties listed above are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the position.

Physical Demands and Work Environment:

Please see the job description for position specific physical requirements and typical working conditions. The physical demands and work environment characteristics described in the attached form are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disability to perform the essential functions. Evening or variable hours to attend meetings is required.

Experience/Qualifications/Knowledge/Skills:

Education: Bachelor's degree in urban planning or related field is required.

Experience:

A minimum of four years of progressively responsible experience in a public planning position, or as a private planning consultant working with municipal government is required.

Or: Any combination of education and experience, which provides the applicant with the desired skills, knowledge and ability required to perform the job, may be substituted for these qualifications.

Examples of these skills include:

Knowledge of:

The modern principles and practices of urban planning and zoning including but not limited to an understanding of applicable laws affecting planning policies and practices.The operation and understanding of personal computers and typical office equipment.

  • Ability to:
  • Prepare maps using the City Geographic Information System is required
  • Communicate effectively and persuasively, both orally and in writing
  • Facilitate public meetingsOperate and understand personal computers and typical office equipment
  • Be oriented towards community service and be sensitive to the public process
  • Establish and maintain effective working relationships with the general public, elected and appointed officials, and City employees.
  • Maintain a customer service orientation, be courteous and diplomatic in the exchange of information, and present a positive image of the City in a variety of circumstances.
  • Effectively communicate complex and technical concepts and ideas orally and in writing to variety of audiences in a clear, effective and professional manner.
  • Plan and organize work to meet required deadlines with a minimum amount of supervision.
  • Speak effectively in public in front of boards, commissions and City Council.
  • License or Certifications Required:Valid Washington State driver's license required.
  • American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) certification, preferred.

How to Apply:

Apply Today!

Your relevant experience may be evaluated to determine salary. Therefore, it is very important that the “Work Experience” portion of the application be completed in as much detail as possible. In order to be considered for this opportunity, please include the following with your online application:

  • An attached resume outlining (in reverse chronological order) your experience to date.
  • An attached cover letter that further explains your qualifications and indicates why you believe you are a viable candidate for this role.
  • Contact details for a minimum three (3) individuals who can attest to your work performance, technical skills, and job-related competencies.

This information can be entered in the “References” section of the online application; does not require an additional attachment.

Supplemental Information:

About City of Lake StevensLake Stevens is a vibrant and growing community - the second fastest-growing city in Snohomish County - with a population of over 35,000 and plans for annexation in early 2021, which would make us the 4th largest city in the county. Lake Stevens is generally a residential community with access to numerous commercial, retail and recreational opportunities. Of course, the crown jewel of the community is the lake itself, which boasts some of the greatest water recreational opportunities in the county. Lake Stevens is also uniquely situated, being close to the lake, ocean, and Cascade mountains, to take advantage of many outdoor activities. The Lake Stevens Schools are excellent and coupled with a city priority of parks and increased walkability, makes Lake Stevens an ideal place to raise a family. The City of Lake Stevens operates under the mayor-council system. The city’s motto, “One Community Around the Lake”, embodies our quality of life, top-ranked school district, and the City Council’s commitment to providing excellent services and amenities for its residents. Why City of Lake Stevens?Work-Life Balance – We are committed to ensure that our staff experience the reward of public service, while also sustaining a routine that suits each individuals’ lifestyle. Plan For Your Future – The City of Lake Stevens offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes a variety of healthcare options. Employees also have their choice of state retirement programs, and much more. Go to our Benefits page for more information.