Salary: $71,500.00-$80,520.62
Posted: December 6, 2023
Closing: Open Until Filled

Learn more about this position and apply today at City of Liberty Lake’s website.

Job Description:

The City of Liberty Lake seeks a qualified and experienced Associate Planner to join our team. The Associate Planner position supports the Planning, Engineering, & Building Services team (PEBS) by providing topical research and analysis, administrative support, managing projects, reviewing permits, an ensuring that projects align with zoning regulations, land use policies, development code standards, and other state and federal regulations. This position performs professional work in the fields of current planning, long-range planning, environmental analysis, and geographic information systems.

  • Interpret information, answer questions, and provide information to property owners, investors, real estate developers, and other interested parties pertaining to zoning, subdivision code, environmental codes, land use applications and permitting processes, the comprehensive plan and other planning and development related information.
  • Review land use applications and development proposals to ensure compliance with city codes, standards, policies, and comprehensive plans.
  • Assist in the processing of building and land use permits, including conditional use permits, variances, and site plan reviews.
  • Prepares legal notices and site notices on pending actions.
  • Conduct research, data analysis, and feasibility studies to inform planning decisions, identify trends, and make data-driven recommendations.
  • Stay informed about local, state, and federal regulations that may impact project planning, and ensure that projects are in compliance with all relevant laws and permits.
  • Participate in the review and improvement of planning processes and procedures to enhance efficiency and effectiveness based on planning and zoning regulations, legislation, and best practices.
  • Work closely with cross-functional teams, such as architects, engineers, designers, and contractors, to coordinate efforts and ensure project success.
  • Maintain open and clear communication with team members and stakeholders providing regular updates on project progress and addressing any concerns. Interact with applicants and developers as necessary, providing updates, addressing inquiries, and maintaining positive working relationships.
  • Engage with the community, developers, and stakeholders through meetings, public hearings, and workshops to gather input and provide information on planning matters.
  • Prepare comprehensive reports, presentations, and recommendations for Director of Planning & Engineering, City Commissions and City Council.
  • Utilize GIS and mapping tools to assist in spatial analysis and maintain accurate records of land use and zoning information.
  • May provide staff support to Planning Commission.
  • Performs field inspections and other related duties as needed.
  • Performs other duties as required by Director of Planning, Engineering & Building Services.

Qualifications:

Required Experience:

  • Three (3) of experience in professional land use, current planning, and/or long-range planning experience.

Required Credentials:

  • Bachelor’s degree in urban planning, community development, environmental science, public administration, or a related field.
  • Possession of a valid state driver’s license, or the ability to obtain one within one month.

Special Requirements:

Insurance Benefits:

  • Eligibility: Coverage begins for new hires and their dependents on the first day of the month, following the first day of employment.
  • Medical: Qualified employees may select from three health plan options; The monthly premium varies depending upon the plan and coverage level selected.
  • Dental: Dental insurance is provided by Delta Dental of Washington. The monthly premium is minimal for employees and eligible dependents.
  • Vision: Vision coverage is paid for by the City of Liberty Lake.
  • Life Insurance – Employee Only: Group Term Life Insurance and AD & D for the employee is paid for by the City of Liberty Lake.
  • Life Insurance – Eligible Dependent(s): Group Term Life Insurance for eligible dependent(s) is paid for by the City of Liberty Lake.
  • Long-Term Disability Insurance: Long-Term Disability Insurance is paid for by the City of Liberty Lake.
  • Employee Assistance Program: The Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is a referral and counseling service for employees and their eligible dependents.
  • HRA VEBA: Upon the adoption of the annual budget, the City of Liberty Lake contributes a predetermined dollar amount to the employee’s HRA VEBA account on an annual basis.
  • Voluntary Benefits: The City of Liberty Lake offers voluntary benefits such as LegalShield/ID Shield, and supplemental life insurance for employees and spouse/domestic partners, and dependent children.

Retirement Benefits:

  • Public Employees’ Retirement System: PERS Employees’ Retirement System (PERS) is a plan choice retirement plan (PERS 2 or PERS 3) covering non-uniformed employees.
  • Deferred Compensation: 401A: A predetermined percentage of each check will be contributed to this plan.
  • 457: This is a voluntary plan that employees can contribute an additional dollar amount or a percentage of each check.

Paid Time Off:

  • City of Liberty Lake observes eleven (11) paid holidays, prorated based on hire date.
  • Thirty-two (32) hours of floating holiday are provided each year; however, the hours are prorated based on the quarter hired for the first year.
  • Employees accrue four (4) hours of paid vacation year pay period.
  • Sick leave is frontloaded upon hire with forty (40) hours, after six (6) months employees will accrue four (4) hours per pay period.