Planner (Planning & Permit Review)- Urban Planning

As a condition of employment all employees must pass a post offer criminal history background check, physical examination and drug screen. All employees must also submit proof of identity and employment eligibility.

Job Description

The Planner performs entry-level professional planning support within the Department of Planning and Urban Development. The role is responsible for assisting with development review, zoning compliance, and building permit review , ensuring that development proposals comply with adopted plans, zoning regulations, and applicable development standards.

This position supports both planning review and building permit review functions , helping coordinate development approvals between planning, building inspections, and other Unified Government departments. The Planner I also assists the public, developers, and internal staff with zoning and land-use inquiries.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Development Review

• Review development applications including site plans, plats, rezonings, and special use permits for compliance with zoning and land-use regulations.
• Assist in evaluating development proposals against the Comprehensive Plan and applicable planning policies.
• Prepare staff reports and recommendations for internal review and presentation to the Planning Commission.
• Provide zoning interpretation and guidance to applicants, property owners, and the public.
• Assist with research, mapping, and data collection related to planning initiatives.

Building Permit and Zoning Review

• Conduct zoning compliance reviews for building permit applications.
• Verify setbacks, lot coverage, height limits, parking requirements, and permitted uses.
• Coordinate permit review with building inspection, engineering, fire, and public works departments.
• Identify zoning or land-use issues prior to permit approval and communicate required corrections to applicants.
• Maintain accurate records of permit reviews and approvals in the permitting system.

Customer Service and Public Assistance

• Respond to public inquiries regarding zoning regulations, land use, and development procedures.
• Assist residents, developers, and contractors in navigating permitting and development processes.
• Participate in meetings with applicants to discuss development proposals and permit requirements.

Research and Administrative Support

• Assist with updates to zoning regulations, development standards, and planning documents.
• Support long-range planning initiatives and neighborhood planning projects.
• Prepare maps, graphics, and documentation using GIS and planning software.
• Maintain records related to planning cases and permit reviews.

Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in planning, Landscape Architecture, Urban Planning, or a closely related field and two years' experience performing professional level planning and activities; or an equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential duties of the job such as those listed above.

Education

Preferred Qualifications

• 0–2 years of experience in urban planning, land-use regulation, development review, or related work.
• Internship experience with a municipal planning department is preferred.
• familiarity with floodplain regulations and flood hazard mapping.
• Basic understanding of the Federal Emergency Management Agency floodplain standards and the National Flood Insurance Program.
• Experience using GIS or mapping software.
• Coursework or training in floodplain management, hydrology, or hazard mitigation.
• Interest in pursuing professional certification such as Certified Floodplain Manager (CFM) through the Association of State Floodplain Managers.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Basic knowledge of urban planning principles, zoning regulations, and land use processes.
• Ability to review plans and identify zoning compliance issues.
• Strong customer service and communication skills.
• Ability to interpret maps, site plans, and construction drawings.
• Organizational skills and ability to manage multiple permit reviews simultaneously.
• Ability to work collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams.

Working Conditions

• Primarily office-based with occasional field inspections or site visits.
• Regular interaction with the public, developers, engineers, and contractors.
• May require attendance at evening meetings such as Planning Commission meetings.

Salary Range

• $27.54 - $36.83/hr.
• The Unified Government of Wyandotte County/Kansas City, Kansas is an Equal Opportunity Employer and values an inclusive workforce.
• If you need to reach a member of the Human Resources staff, please call (913) 573-5660 or email jobs@wycokck.org.
• Company: Unified Government of Wyandotte County/Kansas City, KS