Salary: $4,651.00 – $4,744.00 Monthly
Location: Kennewick, WA
Job Type: Full Time
Department: Planning
Job Number: 2022-00107
Closing: 10/15/2022 5:00 PM Pacific

Learn more about this position and apply today at County of Benton’s Government Jobs page.

Job Summary:

Performs a variety of routine and complex technical work in both current and long range planning. Provides accurate information to the public, elected officials, planning board members and other departments within the County. Coordinates comprehensive plan update work, coordinates other current and long range planning activities.

Examples of Duties:

  • Provides technical and planning assistance to customers, reviews applications to ensure compliance with permit application process.  Responds to customers inquires regarding planning process, zoning, timetables, and related rules, regulations, and/or policies. 
  • Interpret and apply applicable federal, state and county codes, ordinances and regulations.
  • Assists with updates and maintenance of Comprehensive Plan and land development regulations. 
  • Conducts review of various development applications including plants, permits, site plans, variance requests and rezoning.
  • Writes and presents formal and technical reports, working papers, and correspondence.
  • Writes, or assists in writing, a variety of ordinances and regulations relating to development controls.
  • Receives defined assignments and assist in problem identifications, research, data gathering, prepare graphic and staff reports.
  • Collect, collate, review and evaluate base data in preparation for development of comprehensive plans for the unincorporated areas of Benton County.
  • Coordinate and conduct meeting and review session with representatives from related agencies concerning preparation of land use and other plans associated with Benton County.
  • Support the Planning Manager and Senior Planners on various projects and special studies by assisting with research, public involvement, and drafting documents; utilize Geographic Information System and general research/analysis skills to accomplish these tasks.
  • Prepares and coordinates grant projects as required by the Planning Manager for specific projects and ongoing projects of county interest.
  • Prepares, reviews and analyzes environmental documents and checklists with reference to completeness and for the purpose of recommendations to the SEPA responsible official for potential determination and requirements for environmental impact statements.
  • Prepares, reviews, comments and coordinates environmental reviews for county environmental impact statements or impact statements required by the county for specific projects proposed by other public agencies or private individuals.
  • Performs other relates duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree in urban and regional planning, geography; environmental studies, natural resource management,or closely related field. Four (4) years of progressively responsible job experience with a municipal or private land use planning organization may be substituted for the above required BA degree.
  • Valid Washington State Driver’s License.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

  • Knowledge of computer hardware and software programs, which may include Microsoft Office, Internet applications, econometric or transportation modeling, database management, or GIS.
  • Knowledge of the principle, practices, and techniques used in land use planning.
  • Knowledge of local, state and federal laws relating to land use planning and environmental issues.
  • Knowledge to read and interpret technical data, legal descriptions, maps and aerial photos.
  • Knowledge of principles of site impact analysis for development projects. Knowledge of principles of site impacts analysis for development projects.
  • Knowledge of principles of geography, geomorphology and natural systems functions.
  • Knowledge of legal descriptions, cartography and GIS systems.
  • Ability to research, analyze and interpret data collected in the field and changes in planning related laws.
  • Ability to read and interpret maps, photographs and legal descriptions.
  • Ability to establish and maintain an effective working relationship with other employees and the general public.
  • Ability to prepare comprehensive reports, materials and maps.
  • Ability to operate standard office equipment and related software such as computer, word processing, calculator, photocopier, basic office equipment, public address system and audio-visual equipments.
  • Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, with all levels of government individuals and groups regarding complex or sensitive issues or regulations.
  • Ability to review plans and apply provision of the ordinances and codes to determine compliance with such regulations and to apply regulations to field conditions.
  • Ability to work on several projects or issues simultaneously.
  • Ability to work independently or in a team environment as needed.
  • Ability to attend to details while keeping big-picture goals in mind.
  • Ability to analyzing environmental and land use information  in order to identify options, develop mitigation strategies, resolve problems, apply solutions, guidelines and policy to field problems and other work assignment.
  • Ability to apply basic math, algebra and statistics in researching, gathering, organizing, and analyzing data from a variety of sources; maintaining files.
  •