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City of Allentown
Position Description

Grade Number: 13N
Department: Community and Economic Development/Planning and Zoning

GENERAL PURPOSE

Senior Planner is a mid-level planning position involving the analysis of technical data and major project work in the field of city planning and community development. This position is responsible for the relatively independent performance of planning functions or projects requiring various combinations of skill in research, analysis, development, presentation or interpretation of concepts and data pertaining to planning and implementation of plans. Work is performed according to general instructions with considerable latitude for independent initiative and judgment on assigned major projects which are not of a policymaking nature. All qualified planners are encouraged to apply. An ideal candidate will have expertise in historic preservation, municipal historic administration, architecture, urban design, and/or land development. The specific duties for the role will be tailored to the skills and expertise of the selected candidate, while also considering the collective skill set of our team of planners. At present, the city has a heightened need for a skill set in historic preservation. Preference will be given to applicants with demonstrated experience in urban design and/or experience working with historic districts, historic buildings and surveys, Historic Architectural Review Boards (HARB) and Certified Local Governments.



SUPERVISION RECEIVED

Work is subject to technical review through the evaluation of reports and general support. General supervision is usually received from the Planning Director or in certain cases, the Chief Planner.

SUPERVISION EXERCISED

Supervision may be exercised over field and office personnel engaged in inspecting, collecting, analyzing and presenting data.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

The specific duties for the role will be tailored to the unique skills and expertise of the selected candidate, while also considering the collective skill set of our team of planners.

A. Provide administrative and technical support to the Historic and Architectural Review Board (HARB) and the Allentown City Planning Commission (ACPC), including the technical analysis of projects, preparing staff reports, and conducting all required after-meeting follow-up.

B. Conducts studies and assists in the development of strategies related to comprehensive planning, housing and community development;

C. Gathers and interprets socio-economic, housing, and physical data on comprehensive planning issues and based on an analysis of this information prepares reports and makes recommendations with regard to projects and programs;

D. Works with maps, charts, graphs and other visual aids including data processing; may work with contiguous and larger jurisdictions on common problems or conflicts in assigned area of responsibility;

E. Develops creative concepts for long range plans and makes studies of cost, ownership and other factors affecting feasibility;

F. Researches and drafts legislation, such as zoning amendments;

G. Conducts rezoning and street vacation reviews;

H. Interacts with citizen groups, community based organizations and public boards, councils and commissions;

I. Utilizes computerized mapping software to prepare base maps, thematic maps and individual parcel maps;

J. Assists in securing funds for programs and projects such as the preparation of state grant applications and administering same;

K. Performs related work in the fields of city planning and community development.

L. Provides quality and effective customer service with courtesy and understanding to our customers, citizens and internal departments.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Education and Experience:

(A) Graduation from a four-year college or university with a degree in urban planning or related field, preferably possession of a master's degree in planning, historic preservation, architecture, egneering or closely related field; or any equivalent combination of experience and training which provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities;
(B) Possession of, or ability to obtain, a valid motor vehicle operator's license as issued by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania or State of residence.
(C) 1-2 Years of planning experience.
(D) Experience in historic preservation, municipal historic administration, architecture, urban design, and/or land development is preferred.
(E) Member in good standing of the American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) or American Institute of Architects (AIA) is preferred.

Necessary Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

(A) Thorough knowledge of the principles and practices of city planning and community development;
(B) Ability to analyze and systematically compile technical and statistical information and to prepare technical reports;
(C) Ability to develop creative approaches to and concepts for planning and community development problems;
(D) Ability to develop and maintain effective working relationships with employees, officials, other agencies, other jurisdictions and the general public;
(E) Ability to evaluate plans and planning proposals;
(F) Ability to communicate ideas both in writing and orally;
(G) Knowledge of research methodology and statistical procedures;
(H) Ability to drive and to walk for several hours at one time to conduct field research;
(I) Ability to undertake major assignments, such as project administration and monitoring, preparation of legislation or the design of new programs;
(J) Ability to work with computers; proficient with standard data and word processing software;
(K) Experience and/or ability to learn GIS software;
(L) Experience and/or ability to learn EnerGov and Eden.

TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT USED

Requires intensive daily use of personal computer. Occasional use of digital camera, scanner, and plotter.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is constantly required to sit and talk or hear. The employee is required to walk; use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools, computer, or controls; and reach with hands and arms. Frequent walking is required.

The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and the ability to adjust focus.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

The noise level in the work environment is usually quiet. Employees are required to drive and occasionally visit construction sites, and/or conduct neighborhood visual surveys.

Attendance at various evening meetings in and out of City Hall is required.

SELECTION GUIDELINES

Formal application, rating of education and experience; oral interview and reference check; job related tests may be required.

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.

The job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and employee and is subject to change by the employer as the needs of the employer and requirements of the job change.



Rev Jan 2024