Location
Tacoma, WA | United States
Job description
Planner, Associate
Salary
$69,534.40 - $97,905.60 Annually
Location
Tacoma, WA
Job Type
Classified
Job Number
P1240-24
Department
Planning & Development Services
Opening Date
02/23/2024
Closing Date
3/11/2024 5:00 PM Pacific
Description
Benefits
Questions
Position Description
SPECIAL NOTE: This is a Project position expected to end December 31, 2026, unless extended
The City of Tacoma's Planning and Development Services Department (PDS) is seeking a customer-service driven, community-minded person to join our Land Use Team as an Associate Planner. This Planner will work on a combination of discretionary land use permits, environmental review, and building permits. This person also staffs the customer service counter and supports our code enforcement team. The Associate Planner is the first step in the Planner series and reports to the Principal Planner/Supervisor for Current Planning.
What to Expect:
The City of Tacoma continues to operate using a hybrid model. This person will work in office a minimum of one day a week with up to four days per week during training.
The successful candidate will:
Be proficient with multiple technology platforms, such as Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Chat, SharePoint, e-mail, Adobe, and electronic permitting. Be able to manage a diverse range of permits with competing deadlines. Show ability to research permit history using multiple methods, such as County records, City records, historic files, scanned documents, etc. Field phone calls and e-mails from developers, homeowner, neighbors, etc.; and answer questions about permit process and land use regulations.
Under general supervision, a person in this position would be responsible to perform first-level professional planning assignments, working under the regular guidance of a higher-level planning professional or manager. A supervisor typically reviews work in progress as well as outcomes and assists with work prioritization. However, staff in this position often works independently in making decisions regarding work processes or methods which will be used. Assignments are typically reoccurring, of limited scope, and/or involve a portion of a project. Assignments require analysis of a variety of laws, rules, policies, procedures and standards, and development of strategies to resolve problems consistent with established standards. Staff in this position coordinate work within a department, between departments, and with the public and/or other governmental entities.
Candidate Profile:
The ideal candidate will have a broad understanding of local land use codes and environmental codes, as well as state and federal laws that inform our daily work. This person will thrive in a dynamic work environment, be energized by daily interaction with other department staff, residents, developers, architects, consultants, and homeowners. This person must find balance in a workload with competing interests and should enjoy managing multiple tasks within prescribed timelines. This person must be committed to following detailed procedures and writing detailed staff reports. In addition, the ideal candidate will come to work each day committed to:
Building confidence and trust with others through honesty, integrity, and authenticy.
Relishing in opportunity to build relationships with the community we serve and our customers.
Approaching projects with curiosity (lots of curiosity) and seeking understanding from all stakeholders.
Being aware of your own biases and showing a willingness to adjust communication/collaboration accordingly.
Valuing the input of different perspectives and cultures bring to our organization.
Approaching the administration of our codes and process as a "navigator" rather than a "regulator".
The Principles that Guide Us:
Tacoma, the City of Destiny, has a workforce of dedicated, talented and open-minded employees with unique skills and perspectives. We embrace innovation and strive for excellence and community engagement in all that we do. The Principles that Guide Us, Integrity, Service, Excellence and Equity, speak to the values that we embody as City of Tacoma employees, and represent the core of our work in public service.
The Department Mission:
The Planning & Development Service Department’s (PDS) mission is to partner with the community to build a livable, sustainable, and safe City by providing strategic, timely, predictable, cost-effective planning and development services with a culture focused on community engagement, customer service, creativity, accountability, and continuous improvement.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES:
The Essential Duties listed below are from the general Associate Planner Classification. Please refer to the Position Description and Candidate Profile for a more detailed description:
Develops or assists in the development of studies, reports, correspondence, related to all permit review functions.
Reviews or assists in the review of development applications and site plans for completeness and conformance with policies, codes, plans, and regulations, coordinates review with other City departments and governmental agencies.
Assists with updates and maintenance of the Comprehensive Plan and land development regulations.
Coordinates environmental review of plan and code amendments and/or development applications and determines impact mitigation and requirements for compliance with codes and development standards.
May prepare and make presentations on development or planning issues or proposals to governmental bodies, the Hearings Examiner, Planning Commission, citizen groups, other advisory bodies, City Council and the public.
Researches, collects and analyzes a variety of statistical and/or technical data to apply to planning, regulation, zoning or land use issues.
Evaluates and prepares or assists in the evaluation and preparation of reports analyzing rezonings, conditional use permits, shoreline/environmental permits, variances and other discretionary permit applications.
Performs field inspections to gather data relevant to the amendments to the Comprehensive Plan and Regulatory Code, the development review process and/or to verify that development projects comply with approved plans/permits.
Coordinates community review of public and private development projects and amendments to the Comprehensive Plan and development regulations.
Assists senior planning staff with complex cases by gathering and analyzing data, assisting in the preparation of reports and documents for hearings and appeals and/or for review by advisory bodies, and/or appointed or elected officials.
Responds to inquiries on problems, questions, and complaints and assists in resolving citizen issues.
Provides information and technical assistance to the public, other agencies, and City staff.
May attend evening and weekend meetings.
Maintains records and files and performs routine administrative tasks.
Performs other work as assigned.
THE COMMUNITY
Tacoma is a mid-sized urban port city that sits along the Puget Sound with a population of nearly 210,000. The third largest city in the state of Washington, it is a diverse, progressive international gateway to the Pacific Rim.
Tacoma boasts the state's highest density of art and history museums and is home to a flourishing creative community of writers, artists, musicians, photographers, filmmakers, chefs, entrepreneurs, and small business owners who each add their unique flair to the city's vibrant commercial landscape. The iconic Tacoma Dome has endured as a high-demand venue for some of the largest names in the entertainment industry.
A magnet for families looking for affordable housing options in the Puget Sound area, Tacoma also draws those who prefer to live in a more urban downtown setting with competitively priced condos and apartments that feature panoramic mountain and water views.
Tacoma's natural beauty and proximity to the Puget Sound and Mount Rainier draws hikers, runners, bicyclists, and maritime enthusiasts to the area. Its lively social scene is infused with energy by thousands of students attending the University of Washington Tacoma, the University of Puget Sound, the Evergreen State College Tacoma campus, and Tacoma Community College, as well as a number of local trade and technical colleges. Its prime location – just 20 minutes south of the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, 30 miles north of the state capital in Olympia, and within 10 miles of the U.S. Department of Defense's premier military installation on the West Coast – only adds to Tacoma's desirability. To see a few of the great things Tacoma has to offer, view this YouTube Video! (
City of Tacoma Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion
Tacoma's diversity is its greatest asset. Tacoma embraces its multi-cultural and multi-ethnic character. Communities of color and immigrant communities are fundamental to Tacoma's entrepreneurial spirit, workforce, and long-term success. In Tacoma, equity and empowerment are top priorities, meaning that all Tacoma residents must have equitable opportunities to reach their full potential and share in the benefits of community progress. One of our goals is for the City of Tacoma workforce to reflect the community it serves. We actively work to eliminate racial and other disparities and welcome candidates with diverse backgrounds and/or multicultural skill sets and experiences. Our goal is for Tacoma to be an inclusive and equitable place to live, work, and play.
Qualifications
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS (TRAINING AND EDUCATION):
Bachelor's degree in planning, architecture, public policy, urban design, public administration, engineering or related area of study.
OR
Four (4) years of work experience relating to the functions of an Associate Planner.
*Equivalency: 1 year of experience = 1 year of education
LICENSING, CERTIFICATIONS AND OTHER LEGAL REQUIREMENTS:
There may be instances where individual positions must have additional licenses or certification. It is the employer's responsibility to ensure the appropriate licenses/certifications are obtained for each position.
Knowledge & Skills
Knowledge and Skills:
Applicable knowledge of local, state, and federal laws, regulations, and policies
Proficiency with computer hardware and software programs, including Microsoft Office products, Internet applications, GIS
Competencies:
Analysis
Use data and information in a clear and rational thought process to assess and understand issues, evaluate options, form accurate conclusions, and make decisions.
Verbal Communication
Effectively express information through the spoken word using language that is appropriate to both the complexity of the topic and the knowledge and understanding of the audience.
Written Communication
Effectively convey ideas and information in writing using language that is appropriate to both the complexity of the topic and the knowledge and understanding of the reader.
Customer Focus
Build and maintain internal and external customer satisfaction with the services provided by the City of Tacoma.
Coordinating and Organizing
Effectively coordinate activities, services, and schedules to ensure smooth and efficient operation of work.
Adaptability/Flexibility
Adapt easily to changing business needs, conditions and work responsibilities. Adjust approach, goals and methods when needed to achieve successful solutions and results in dynamic situations.
Relationship Building
Build constructive working relationships characterized by a high level of acceptance, cooperation, and mutual regard.
Selection Process & Supplemental Information
SPECIAL NOTE: This is a Project position expected to end December 31, 2026, unless extended
To be considered for this opportunity:
Interested individuals must apply online and meet the minimum qualifications to progress in the examination process. Applicants must attach a detailed resume and cover letter describing job experience, major responsibilities and accomplishments related to the position.
In order for your application materials to be considered, all information must be submitted by the closing date and time listed on this job announcement.
Candidates who are eligible for Veteran's Preference scoring criteria must attach a copy of their DD-214 member copy 4, (proof of military discharge form) at time of application , to be eligible for review for Veteran's Preference points, with redacted birth date and social security numbers.
Examination Process:
This is a competitive selection process. Applicants who meet the minimum qualifications will have their responses to Supplemental Questions # 5-15 reviewed and scored by a committee of subject matter experts, as the Experience and Training Test . It is the responsibility of the applicants to adequately describe all pertinent experience and training. Please make sure you read the questions and provide complete informative answers. DO NOT respond with "see resume" in lieu of answering these questions; this will result in a failing score.
Candidates who obtain a passing score will be ranked on the eligible list for interview and hiring consideration.
Per City of Tacoma Personnel Management Policy #170, the City of Tacoma is a drug-free work environment. Appointment is subject to successful completion of a pre-employment background and reference check. New employees must successfully complete a nine-month probationary period prior to obtaining permanent status in this classification.
When you work for the City of Tacoma, you'll have the opportunity to enjoy a healthy work/life balance, the potential for flexible work schedules (with some job classifications), continuing education programs, leadership pathways, wellness incentives and a total rewards benefits program. We welcome you to take a look at our website and discover how the City of Tacoma can make your next career move part of our combined destiny:
The City of Tacoma believes that each employee makes a significant contribution to our success. This job description is designed to outline primary duties, qualifications and job scope. 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.
Communication from the City of Tacoma:
We primarily communicate via email during the application process. Emails from cityoftacoma.org and/or governmentjobs.com must be placed on your safe domain list to ensure that you receive notifications in a timely manner. As a precaution, you may also want to check your junk email folders.
The online application system requires you to enter a substantial amount of information. In order for your application materials to be considered, all information must be submitted by the closing date and time listed on this job announcement.
For assistance with the NEOGOV application process, or questions regarding this job announcement, please call Human Resources at (253) 591.5400 before 4:00 pm of the closing date of the job announcement.
Agency
City of TacomaAddress
Human Resources Department 747 Market Street Tacoma, Washington, 98402-3764Phone
253-591-5400Website
The City of Tacoma provides excellent medical, dental and vision plans for the whole family; paid holidays and paid leave; participation in the Tacoma Public Employees' Retirement System (alternate plan for Police/Fire); continuing education and advancement opportunities and a growing variety of City-sponsored health and wellness opportunities and incentives.
Medical Coverage: For eligible employees and their families, including domestic partners and dependent children age 26 or younger.
Dental Coverage: For eligible employees and their families, including domestic partners and dependent children age 26 or younger.
Vision Coverage: For eligible employees and their eligible dependents.
Paid Leave: City employees are entitled to received paid holidays, sick/vacation leave or personal time off (PTO), depending upon union affiliation and appointment type.
Insurance Plans: Employees are covered by a long-term disability plan. Short-term and expanded long-term disability insurance plans are also available to employees. The State Industrial Insurance Act also covers employees.
Deferred Compensation: Income can be set aside on a pretax basis and invested for supplementation of normal retirement income.
Retirement: All employees of the City, except members of the Police and Fire services, Tacoma Rail and certain project employees, are included in the Tacoma Employees' Retirement System. Information on the Tacoma Employees' Retirement System can be found at or by calling (253) 502-8200.
Other Employment Information
Direct Deposit: Employees are paid on a bi-weekly schedule by direct deposit.
Salary Increases: Based on satisfactory job performance, the City provides for a regular progression of salary increases for most classifications according to the salary schedule.
Union Affiliation: Many job classifications are covered by union security provisions which require union membership, dues, or payment of equivalent service fees.
Note: The provisions of this job announcement do not constitute an expressed or implied contract. Any provision contained herein may be modified and/or revoked without notice.
01
The Supplemental Questionnaire is part of the examination process; accordingly, it should be completed carefully. It must be submitted with your application. Responses to supplemental questions must be original content created by the applicant using their own words. The use of online tools or resources to create responses, such as Artificial Intelligence (ChatGPT, etc), Google, Bing, etc., or plagiarism in any form, is considered cheating and falsification of the application. Do not indicate "see resume" or copy unrelated content from your resume when answering these questions. Answer all information requested in each question. Failure to do so may result in rejection of your application. I certify that the information provided is accurate and complete to the best of my knowledge. I understand that any falsification may cancel any terms, conditions, or privileges of employment.
Yes
No
02
Select the option that most closely matches your qualifications for this position.
Bachelor or Master's Degree in planning, architecture, public policy, urban design, public administration, engineering or related area of study
An equivalent combination of education and experience that provides a comparable level of expertise in the planning profession
None of the above
03
If you answered "An equivalent combination of education and experience" to Question #2 above, please describe more fully how your background provides a comparable level of expertise in the planning profession. If this question doesn't pertain to your education and experience, respond with "N/A."
04
INSTRUCTIONS FOR THE EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING TEST:
Questions #5-15 are the experience and training test that will be used to establish the eligibility list. These questions will be scored by subject matter experts who will not have access to any of your application materials, and will provide scores based solely upon your answers to the questions. Your answers must stand on their own merit. DO NOT RESPOND WITH "SEE RESUME" in lieu of answering this question, as raters will not have access to your resume or application and this will result in a score of 0 points and you will fail the test. Your score on the experience and training test will ONLY reflect your response to the questions asked.
Please indicate "Yes" that you have read and understand the instructions for questions #5-15.
Yes
No
05
How many years of experience do you have with site plan review?
Less than 1 year
1-2 years
2 or more years
06
How many years of planning experience do you have?
Less than 1 year
1-2 years
2 or more years
07
How many years of experience do you have with subdivision plat review?
Less than 1 year
1-2 years
2 or more years
08
How many years of experience do you have with variance requests?
Less than 1 year
1-2 years
2 or more years
09
How many years of experience do you have with rezoning and special or conditional uses permit requests?
Less than 1 year
1-2 years
2 or more years
10
Please describe in detail your experience providing regulatory guidance to members of the public in person, by phone and/or by email. In your response, include an example of a challenging regulatory inquiry that you provided resolution to. If you have no applicable experience, please type N/A.
11
Please describe a time or situation when you had to adapt to changing business needs, conditions and/or work responsibilities. What strategies/tactics did you implement to proactively embrace the change? If you have no experience in this area, respond with N/A.
12
Occasionally, land use permits become controversial and/or adversarial, involving conflicting perspectives. An example might be a request to increase height of a building that will result in some view impacts to neighboring property owners. Please provide an example of a work experience in which you have been involved in a controversial or adversarial issue, how you contributed to improve the outcome, or, where you feel the outcome was not successful, what insight you gained from the experience.
13
Check all relevant boxes below that reflect areas of your expertise and knowledge.
Environmental Documentation - SEPA
State of Washington Growth Management Act )RCW 36.70A)
Experience applying land use codes to development permits
Experience working with projects that contain critical areas, including shorelines
None of the above
14
Please describe a situation in which you worked on a project with people who were from a different race, ethnic, language, or gender background than your own. What was challenging for you in this work? What did you do to make your work together successful?
15
This position requires a high level of customer service and customer interaction. Please briefly recount an example of exceptional customer service that you have provided.
16
Please tell us how you learned about this job opening.
Job Interest Card notification
Government Jobs
Professional organization
Union job posting
Community organization
Military organization
City of Tacoma employee
Online job board posting
Word of mouth
Other
17
Please provide specific information regarding how you learned about this job opening. Thank you, your feedback will be used to evaluate our success reaching the public and refine our methods for future job postings.
18
Notifications and updates to candidates are made through email to the email address you input on this job application. E-mails from cityoftacoma.org and/or governmentjobs.com must be placed on your safe domain list to ensure that you receive notifications in a timely manner. As a precaution, you may also want to check your junk e-mail folders. It is recommended to double-check that you have written your email address correctly before you submit this job application. Check "yes" to show that you have read and understood this instruction.
Yes
No
19
If you are a military veteran, did you remember to upload a copy of your DDForm 214, Member 4 copy, for review for Veteran's Preference eligibility?
Yes
No
Required Question
Agency
City of Tacoma
Address
Human Resources Department 747 Market Street Tacoma, Washington, 98402-3764
Phone
253-591-5400
Website
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