Category: 
Job


Location: Carlisle, PA

Planner II or III

Salary: $56,597 - $70,949/year

Position Summary
This professional position manages the administration of the land development process and interpretation and enforcement of the Borough’s zoning and subdivision & land development ordinances. The incumbent provides project management for current planning efforts, including comprehensive and area plan development. Work is performed under direction with considerable latitude. This role requires intermediate experience and exercises independent judgment to determine the best approach by using and interpreting plans, policies and procedures, and seeks technical guidance on unusual or complex problems or issues.

The Planner II/III provides exceptional customer service and is expected to uphold the public interest and work collaboratively with management, staff and residents to advance Carlisle’s vision and reputation as a progressive, inclusive, and responsive government.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities
The essential functions may include the customary duties and responsibilities noted herein, however, the information below is not an exhaustive list of duties and instead serves as a representative sample of the expectations of the position.

  • Serves as an Assistant Zoning Officer (AZO) under the general direction of the Borough Zoning Officer and in cooperation with the Chief Code Enforcement Officer/AZO.
  • Reviews subdivision and land development plans for compliance with Borough Code.
  • Reviews and acts on various permit applications including zoning permits and sign permits.
  • Performs initial, on-going, and final inspections of plans and property for conformity to Zoning, Subdivision and Land Development Ordinance (SALDO), and other Code requirements.
  • Maintains property records including conditions of approval and recording documentation.
  • Initiates non-compliance response actions necessary to correct deficiencies or violations.
  • Investigates and analyzes data to assist in the development of written staff reports in support of recommendations for official action; writes and presents formal and technical reports, working papers, and correspondence.
  • Attends meetings and advises committees, commissions, and boards as directed; may be required to attend meetings outside normal business hours.
  • Assists with facilitating and supporting the development and implementation of climate adaptation and resilience plans, strategies, and similar policy initiatives such as the Comprehensive Plan, Municipal Operations Plan, etc.; 
  • Participate in the research, writing, engagement, and discussion of the Borough’s Comprehensive Plan, community and neighborhood plans, or other specialized plans such as the Borough’s Climate Action Plan
  • Assists in writing a variety of ordinances and regulations relating to development controls.
  • Responsible for the proper posting of signs and notices in connection with planning and zoning matters.
  • Responsible for the administration of Floodplain regulations.
  • Contacts alleged violators and documents violations or issue citations, when necessary; prepares and presents testimony for court cases.
  • Performs related work and assists other departments as assigned.

Minimum Requirements and Qualifying Criteria
An equivalent combination of credentials and experience to sufficiently perform the duties of the position may be considered:

  • Bachelor's degree in a related field such as urban studies, planning, public administration, real estate, economics, etc.
  • Four (4) years of professional planning or zoning experience.
  • AICP Certification required within one (1) year of hire.
  • Valid Pennsylvania driver’s license.

Knowledge/Skills/Qualities
The ideal candidate should possess the following:

  • Present a positive image and attitude on a daily basis.
  • Ability to adapt in an evolving environment without compromising services.
  • Well-developed knowledge of the Pennsylvania Municipal Planning Code (MPC).
  • In-depth knowledge of a specific area of planning including land use planning/zoning, transportation planning, environmental planning, urban design, housing, historic preservation or economic development.
  • General understanding of climate change scenarios, mitigation, and resilience adaptation.
  • Knowledge of current trends in federal, state and local planning.
  • Knowledge of landscaping practices and the ability to inspect trees and shrubs to assess health.
  • Knowledge of principles, methodology, practices of research and data collection.
  • Knowledge of effective writing techniques.
  • Knowledge of computer programs and applications, which may include Microsoft Office, Internet applications, and database management.
  • GIS programs and applications.
  • Demonstrate professional level of responsibility and resourcefulness in planning.
  • Able to evaluate negative externalities from land development and land use activities.
  • Communication and interpersonal skills to present research findings to the public.
  • Creative problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to review plans and apply provisions of the ordinances and codes to determine compliance with such regulations and to apply regulations to field conditions.
  • Group facilitation skills for use with community workshops.
  • 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.
  • Effective written and verbal communication skills; ability to follow oral and written instructions accurately and carefully.
  • Ability to facilitate in-person and virtual public participation activities.
  • Desire and ability to learn new skills.
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with others.

How to Apply
Visit our website: www.carlislepa.org

For questions or to submit your resume and cover letter: Contact: Amy Berrier, HR/Risk Management Manager Email: aberrier@carlislepa.org; Call: 717-240-6923; Fax: 717-240-6615