Professional Program Assistant (Planning Technician)

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.

Professional Program Assistant

Department: Planning and Urban Development

Position Summary

The Professional Program Assistant provides administrative and programmatic support to the Department of Planning and Urban Development. This position assists with coordination of planning programs, development review processes, and departmental initiatives by supporting staff with project tracking, data management, public communication, and operational activities.

The Professional Program Assistant serves as a key liaison between staff, applicants, and the public by helping manage planning applications, supporting board and commission processes, and assisting with departmental programs and projects.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Program and Project Support

• Assist with coordination and tracking of departmental programs, planning initiatives, and development review activities.
  
• Maintain project timelines, records, and databases related to planning programs and initiatives.
  
• Support planning staff with research, data entry, and documentation for departmental projects.
  
• Assist with preparation of program reports, presentations, and internal documentation.
  

• Assist with intake and processing of planning applications such as rezonings, special use permits, subdivisions, and variances.
  
• Review application materials for completeness and coordinate routing to appropriate staff and departments.
  
• Track development review cases through the review process and maintain application records.
  
• Communicate with applicants regarding application status, requirements, and review timelines.
  

• Assist with preparation and distribution of agendas, staff reports, and supporting documents for boards and commissions such as the Planning Commission.
  
• Coordinate meeting logistics and maintain records of official actions.
  
• Support preparation and maintenance of meeting minutes and documentation.
  

• Respond to inquiries from residents, developers, contractors, and businesses regarding planning programs, zoning regulations, and development procedures.
  
• Provide general information and direct inquiries to appropriate staff members.
  
• Assist with public outreach efforts and community engagement activities related to planning initiatives.
  

• Maintain departmental files, records, and electronic databases related to planning cases, permits, and programs.
  
• Assist with document management, records retention, and information requests.
  
• Prepare maps, spreadsheets, and reports using office and GIS software as needed.
  

• Public Administration
  
• Urban Planning
  
• Business Administration
  
• Communications
  
• Geography
  
• Or a related field
  

• Two (2) years of administrative, program support, or project coordination experience.
  

• Familiarity with municipal planning processes and development review procedures.
  
• Experience with permitting or case management software.
  
• Basic knowledge of zoning regulations and land use planning.
  
• Experience using GIS or mapping software.
  
• Experience supporting public meetings or government boards and commissions.
  

• Strong organizational and project coordination skills.
  
• Ability to manage multiple assignments and deadlines.
  
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  
• Ability to interact professionally with the public and internal staff.
  
• Proficiency with office software including word processing, spreadsheets, and database systems.
  
• Attention to detail and accuracy in documentation and recordkeeping.
  

• Primarily office-based work environment.
  
• Frequent interaction with residents, developers, contractors, and government staff.
  
• May require occasional attendance at evening meetings to support boards or commissions.