The Town of Chapel Hill is seeking an early career professional with interests in urban planning and land use. 

The position provides organizational support to the Planning Department as well as customer service for the general public. The work of this position involves assisting development applicants with submittal and processing of land use and zoning applications, monitoring application workflow, and developing skills in application review and permitting. The Planning Technician also writes zoning letters, does on-site zoning inspections, and other tasks as needed. This position is eligible for flexible work arrangements, including telework.
 
About Town of Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill is a progressively minded university town of approximately 60,000 residents.  We are the home of national champions, academic scholars, community activists, musical trend-setters, authentic local businesses, and much more.  The town is situated in the Piedmont region of North Carolina, one of three corners in the famed Research Triangle, and a few short hours from the eastern coastline.  We thrive on teamwork, collaboration, engagement, and open dialogue.  We are working toward building an inclusive, equitable, and resilient community for all who live, work, and play here.

The posted salary information represents the hiring range. The full salary range for the position extends up to $62,166.

Essential Functions

The list below describes potential key responsibilities of the position. The selected candidate will perform a subset of these duties that matches their skill sets and interests.

• Respond to email and phone inquiries from the public
• Assist the public with development application submittals
• Process incoming applications and distribute to review staff
• Manage a schedule of meetings between applicants and staff
• Monitor and provide reports on application workflow
• Manage data for the development application pipeline and report on key metrics
• Update web page content with information on submitted applications
• Review minor applications
• Issue permits 
• Write and transmit zoning verification letters
• Coordinate mailing and posting of required public notices
• Consult with development teams on compliance before and during construction
• Perform on-site residential and commercial zoning inspections
• Review as-built drawings
• Support staff liaisons to Advisory Boards and Commissions by assisting with agenda materials, meeting minutes, and scheduling
• Provide support to project managers
• Assist with meeting facilitation and/or event staffing
• Provide other organizational support to Planning staff and perform other duties as needed

Ability to:

• Learn the Town's permitting software system
• Learn web-based software for Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
• Communicate effectively verbally and in writing with contractors, residents, and Town employees about complex processes
• Write for the purpose of sharing information and knowledge
• Work independently and use sound judgment in conducting Town business
• Multi-task in a fast-paced environment
• Meet deadlines 
• Follow policies and procedures of the Town and the Planning Department
• Model behaviors that are consistent with our value of RESPECT
• Promote a culture of workplace safety

Minimum Qualifications

The Town will consider any equivalent combination of education, experience, and training that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform this job.

Education

Associates Degree in any field or Bachelors Degree in any field.

Experience

Professional work experience performed in an office setting and/or at development sites, typically involving data management, customer service, and/or construction site inspections. Six months of work experience with a Bachelors Degree; two years of work experience with an Associates Degree.

Knowledge of:

• Word processing, spreadsheets, and related computer software
• Mobile communications devices 
• Principles and practices of effective customer service