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DEFINITION

Under general supervision, perform various planning work, with the primary responsibility of assisting the general public on planning, zoning, and environmental requirements.  The position also helps review development and land use applications for zoning compliance, completes technical assessments and prepares written project analyses, and performs related work as required. 

The Planning Technician position is an entry-level position where technical assistance is provided to support professional staff and handle specialized project and program assignments.

Work is split between in-office and fieldwork.  Conditions involve some travel and may occasionally involve modified work hours or workdays to attend evening public hearings or weekend public outreach events.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED

Receives general supervision from the Chief of Planning. This position does not exercise supervision over others.

ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES

Essential duties may include, but are not limited to the following:

• Provide assistance and information to the general public, developers and contractors related to planning, zoning, and environmental requirements. 
• Serve as the primary reviewer of Building Permits for zoning compliance.  
• Process administrative current planning applications (e.g., sign permits, tree removal permits, land use permits, development plans, etc.).
• Provide staff support as needed to the Planning Division, Planning Commission, Design Review Board, Historic Resource Commission and other Town departments and divisions as assigned.
• Process a variety of development proposals and permit applications, including sign permits, variances, land-use permits, development plans, and major and minor subdivisions; ensure conformance to Town standards.
• Review applications for completeness and conformance to administrative requirements; monitor the progress of applications during the development review process.
• Perform research on a variety of planning issues; prepare and/or revise ordinances.
• Coordinate development review with other divisions of Development Services and outside agencies.
• Resolve disputes between the Town and developers/property owners.
• Respond to citizen complaints, concerns and inquiries.
• Prepare reports on a wide range of planning issues; make presentations to the Planning Commission, Design Review Board and other groups, as appropriate.
• Assist with managing the Town’s affordable housing program; aid in staffing the Town’s Design Review Board.

QUALIFICATIONS

Knowledge of:

• Practical planning methodology, urban development and operations, urban design and basic land economics; current land use and urban design implementation.
• Principles and techniques of project management.
• Development process, economics, practices and procedures.
• California development law, Town planning and zoning codes, California Environmental Quality Act and other applicable federal, state and local legislation.
• Techniques of negotiation.

Ability to:

• Demonstrate community relations skills; speak publicly and explain/interpret Town practices and objectives to the public, private agencies, and organizations as required.
• Prepare reports proposals and written materials of an analytical, budgetary, financial, technical and evaluative nature.
• Establish and maintain effective work relationships.
• Utilize computer equipment and software, including Microsoft Office Suite, and GIS.
• Attend meetings at various sites within and outside of the Town to inspect various work, building, or construction sites.
• Stoop, climb, crawl, balance, maneuver, walk and stand for long periods of time; must possess the ability to lift up to 25lbs.

EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATION

Experience:

One (1) year of experience in city or regional planning or a related field.  

Education:

A Bachelor’s degree in city planning, public administration, political science, geography, urban and regional studies, or a closely related field.

LICENSE(S) AND CERTIFICATION(S)

Possession of a valid California State Driver’s License, or license in another state with the ability to obtain a California license within 30 days of hire.                

We have an excellent opportunity in the Community Development Department for the position of Plan Check Assistant!

We are seeking a customer service-oriented individual with the competence and experience to address challenges with confidence and professionalism. The Plan Check Assistant performs a range of duties in reviewing and checking building construction plans (residential, commercial, and industrial) for compliance with all applicable State and City codes.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Review construction plans for additions, alterations, repairs, and other projects to ensure compliance with all applicable codes and ordinances
• Respond to inquiries from, and provide information to architects, engineers, contractors, building designers, owners, and the general public regarding project status, plan checking, and other code code-related issues
• Provide assistance at the public service counter (over-the-counter plan checking, code questions, and permit issuance)
• Perform routine engineering analysis and calculations
• Approve over-the-counter plan revisions to issued permits

ASSISTANT PLANNER

Under the general direction of the Planning Manager and the Economic and Community Development Director, performs planning work including research, data gathering, analysis, design, and report writing per the policies and provisions of the General Plan and zoning ordinance, preparation of environmental documents, and other planning and development projects.

ASSOCIATE PLANNER

Under the general direction of the Planning Manager and the Economic and Community Development Director, performs planning work of substantial professional difficulty, including research, data gathering, analysis, design, and report writing per the policies and provisions of the General Plan and zoning ordinance, preparation and administration of area and specific plans, preparation of environmental documents, and other complex planning and development projects. 

CLASS CHARACTERISTICS:

ASSISTANT PLANNER

The Assistant Planner is the entry-level flexibly staffed classification within the professional planning series. Work is reviewed upon completion of assignments, assessing draft reports for adequacy, factual content, presentation, and the soundness of interpretations and conclusions. The Assistant Planner classification is distinguished from the Associate Planner as the former is expected to perform with the same independence of direction and judgment as the Associate Planner and would receive direction and assistance as they progress in the position.

ASSOCIATE PLANNER

The Associate Planner is the journey level flexibly staffed classification within the professional planning series. Positions in this class require substantial professional planning experience. This class is distinguished from the Assistant Planner by assignment of the full range of professional planning duties. Employees at this level receive only occasional instruction or assistance as new or unusual situations arise and are fully aware of the operating procedures and policies within the workplace. This role involves undertaking planning work of substantial professional difficulty, requiring a high level of expertise in research, data gathering, analysis, design, and report writing. The Associate Planner is responsible for overseeing the preparation and administration of area and specific plans and managing other complex planning and development projects. Assignments are usually broad in scope and require the use of judgment base on experience in making complex technical decisions. Assignments may require technical or functional supervision of technical and/or clerical positions. 

EXAMPLES OF DUTIES:

ASSISTANT PLANNER ($7,332 - $8,910)

• Under direction, reviews building, site and architectural plans, use permits, code amendments, variances, development proposals, and other related documents for conformance to City standards and other applicable state and federal rules and regulations; may serve as primary point of contact to developers and property owners in meeting these standards.
• Assists in preparing environmental documents per the requirements of the California Environmental Quality Act for both public and private projects, including negative/mitigated negative declarations and/or environmental impact reports, notices, and mitigation measures.
• Prepares and updates maps, visual exhibits and other graphics for use in reports and public presentations.
• Under direction, may present to the City Council and Planning Commission, and other committees and advisory groups regarding land use applications, general plan amendments, code amendments, area and specific plans, and related studies.
• Assists in reviewing plans submitted for building permits for conformance with the Zoning Ordinance and conditions of approval.
• Confers with and advises architects, builders, contractors, engineers, and the general public regarding City development policies and standards.
• Coordinates planning related programs or projects involving multi-department and multi-jurisdictional review, participates in project review as member of the Development Review Committee; provides professional planning guidance in responding to questions or inquiries.
• Assists with researching, analyzing, and interpreting social, economic, population, and land use data and trends.
• Performs related work as required.

ASSOCIATE PLANNER ($8,532 - $10,365)

• Reviews building, site and architectural plans, use permits, code amendments, variances, development proposals, applications and other related documents for conformance to City standards and other applicable state and federal rules and regulations; serves as primary point of contact to developers and property owners in meeting these standards.
• Prepares environmental documents per the requirements of the California Environmental Quality Act for both public and private projects, including negative/mitigated negative declarations and/or environmental impact reports; works with consultants in facilitating preparation of environmental documents and related findings and mitigation measures.
• Prepares amendments and updates to the General Plan and Municipal Code in conformance with State law.
• Prepares and updates maps, visual exhibits and other graphics for use in reports and public presentations.
• Conducts office and field studies, researches and prepares recommendations for all types of development applications based on local and state planning laws.
• Reviews and analyzes development proposals and works with developers, the public and other agencies regarding various land use permits, general plan amendments, and zone changes.
• Makes presentations to the City Council and Planning Commission, and other committees and advisory groups regarding land use applications, general plan amendments, code amendments, area and specific plans, and related studies.
• Lead and facilitate planning initiatives or projects that require multi-departmental and multi-jurisdictional evaluation, actively participates in project reviews as a member of the Development Review Committee and offers professional planning advice when addressing questions or inquiries.
• Confers with and advises architects, builders, contractors, engineers, and the general public regarding City development policies and standards.
• Researches, drafts, and prepares updates to the Zoning Ordinance and amendments to the General Plan.
• Reviews plans submitted for building permits for conformance with the Zoning Ordinance and conditions of approval.
• Reviews and finalizes research, analysis, and interpretation of the social, economic, population, and land use data and trends.
• Serves as liaison to appointed hearing bodies.

The City of Berkeley invites applications for the position of Housing Inspector II (Certified)! In this role, you will perform skilled inspection work with City residential housing inspection programs. You will independently perform the full scope of work in the investigation, reporting and follow-up of housing deficiencies to gain compliance with housing, building, zoning, fire, mechanical, plumbing, electrical, and related codes and regulations.

Assignments are varied and generally require close interaction with the public, providing information and interpretation of applicable ordinances, codes and regulations. We'll expect you to exercise considerable independence and discretion in conducting inspections, resolving complaints and enforcing inspection results.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

A typical way of gaining the knowledge, skills, and abilities for this position is:

Equivalent to graduation from high school and at least two years of full-time experience equivalent to Housing Inspector or Building Inspector or Code Enforcement Inspector for a public agency. 

Must possess:

• An International Code Council (ICC) OR California (CA) certification in Residential Building or Housing Inspection or in Code Enforcement; and
• ICC or CA Residential or Commercial Electrical Inspector certification and ICC or CA Residential or Commercial Plumbing Inspector certification, or equivalent ICC or CA Legacy Certification for either Combination Inspector or Combination Dwelling Inspector.

Other requirements: Must be able to travel to various locations within and outside the City of Berkeley to meet the program needs and to fulfill the job responsibilities. When driving on City business, incumbent is required to maintain a valid California driver's license as well as a satisfactory driving record.

In addition to the qualifications above, the ideal candidate will have effective and courteous communication skills in order to discuss housing violations, violation remedy and necessary inspections and fees and participate in depositions and court hearings as requested. The ideal candidate can support a work environment that highlights efficiency and team collaboration in a professional and friendly atmosphere for the inspectors and administrative staff.

APPLICATION PROCESS

For first consideration, please apply by May 13, 2024.

Applicants must submit a completed application and responses to the supplemental questionnaire. Please note that resumes are not a substitute for a completed application.

Applications are available in alternative formats (audio-format, braille, large print, electronic text, etc.) upon request to ada@berkeleyca.gov. Please allow 10 days for production of the material in an alternative format.

Highlights: 

1. Play a key role in facilitating the digital transformation of the Community Development department. 
2. Embrace a flexible work-life balance with our 9/80 schedule
3. Highly competitive salary and benefits package

We are seeking an innovative and proactive Building Official with a positive, forward-thinking perspective. The Building Official will manage all building division functions (building permit issuance, plan check, and building inspections). The position reports to the Community Development Director. The Building Official will assist in integrating the City’s vision, goals, and people strategy with the business strategy of the Community Development Department; managing, planning, and organizing Community Development services, programs, and operations; developing and implementing policy; crafting and accomplishing department and City objectives, goals, and performance metrics within guidelines established by the City Council and City Manager. The Building Official must exercise a high degree of judgment and discretion along with political acumen and an understanding of the needs of the community.

The City is experiencing a high volume of development applications, including residential, commercial, assisted living, and industrial projects. There is also significant interest in downtown revitalization. Some key initiatives on the horizon for the Building Official include:

• Implementation of the Thousand Oaks Boulevard Specific Plan, which is a top-priority downtown revitalization project that includes mixed-use development and focuses on an attractive, dynamic, and pedestrian-oriented environment
• Participate in developing and implementing a comprehensive land management system
• Leading staff to be innovative, collaborative, develop expertise, excel in community outreach, promote continuous improvement, and continue moving forward in an enthusiastic and professional manner
• Shaping and positively influencing the Community Development Department environment by supporting a culture of collaboration and accountability
• Identification, development, and promotion of innovative strategies and technological solutions to maximize efficient service delivery
• Working across department lines to promote public service efficiencies
• Development and implementation of key performance metrics to measure operational effectiveness, identify areas of success and areas for improvement
• Planning and executing staffing and operational strategies to provide high-quality, cost-effective services to external and internal customers

The City of Vacaville - A beautiful place to live, a great place to work!

With more than 600 employees, the City of Vacaville values work-life integration and offers flexible/hybrid work schedules, every other Friday off, employee social and wellness activities, casual dress days, competitive pay and a generous benefits and retirement package.

Contribute to our vibrant community and join the City of Vacaville!

TO VIEW JOB ANNOUNCEMENT, CLICK JOB PDF OR JOB ANNOUNCEMENT URL BELOW.

The City of Berkeley invites you to apply for the position of Camp Maintenance Mechanic (Non-Career Intermittent) in the Parks, Recreation and Waterfront Department! In this role, you will have the opportunity to keep our camps running smoothly by performing both routine and heavy, physical work in the construction, maintenance, repair and cleaning of camp facilities. You'll operate a variety of hand and power tools to perform preventive maintenance and repair.

Our two overnight camps are located near South Lake Tahoe and Yosemite. 

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

A typical way of gaining the knowledge, skills, and abilities for this position is: Equivalent to graduation from high school, and one (1) year of experience in construction and maintenance.

State of California Drinking Water Treatment Certifications (Grade 1 or 2) desirable. Must possess and maintain a valid California non-commercial (Class C) driver's license, and have a satisfactory driving record. Must possess sufficient strength and stamina to lift and carry objects weighing up to 80 pounds and be able to perform sustained heavy physical labor. Must be willing to work outdoors in all weather conditions and on off-hour shifts in emergency situations.

California Education Code Section 10911.5 requires that all public recreation program employers must fingerprint all persons having direct contact with a minor. The City does not hire persons who have been convicted of felony drug, sexual assault or physical assault crimes.

Join our team!

Have you ever thought about a career in municipal street maintenance?

Do you love working outdoors, utilizing equipment and tools to maintain and repair streets, sidewalks, curb and gutters, flood control channels and traffic signs?

Are you looking for a career where every day is different but organization is stable?

Does the idea of learning about asphalt, concrete, traffic signs, Traffic control and assisting customers and fellow employees interest you?

Do you work well with others and love the challenge of tough assignments?

Then we want to talk to you!

Details:

• Full-time regular position, the schedule consists of a 4/10 typically working Tuesday through Friday.
• Salary range $21.34 to $27.26 hourly with Excellent Benefits (see below)

This position will receive a four percent (4%) cost of living increase effective April 2024.

• The new salary range effective April 2024, will be $22.19 - $28.35 hourly
• To view the full job description, click on the link:

Minimum Qualifications for consideration: Any combination of education and experience that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be:

Education/Training: Formal or informal education or training which ensures the ability to read and write at a level necessary for successful job performance.

Experience: Two years of general maintenance experience performing field maintenance work within the assigned area of responsibility.

License or Certificate: Possession of, or ability to obtain, an appropriate, valid Class A driver license within one year (Landscape or Streets) of employment. Some positions may require possession of, or ability to obtain, an Electrical Hazards Awareness certificate within one year of employment. Possession of, or ability to obtain, CPR and First Aid certifications within the first six months. Additional industry-specific certifications may be required depending on area of assignment.

ABOUT THE POSITION:

The Seasonal Maintenance Worker position performs a variety of entry-level and unskilled labor, maintenance and repair tasks in various public works operations, such as park maintenance, landscape maintenance, creek and catch basin maintenance, street maintenance, and janitorial and facility maintenance.

This is an excellent opportunity to gain insight and experience for a rewarding career in local government.

Typically, work hours are scheduled between Monday through Friday, 7:00 am to 3:30 pm.  Some hours may be adjusted for special events in evening or on weekends; up to 29 hours per week.

This is a part-time, temporary position with limited duration.

EXAMPLE DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Perform preparatory work for maintenance activities – gathering equipment, materials and supplies, loading and unloading, and laying out materials and equipment for projects
• Perform a variety of routine physical labor tasks, depending upon area of assignment, such as posting general notices, pulling weeds, picking up litter, raking leaves and debris, planting, miscellaneous painting, replacing light bulbs, emptying trash bins, cleaning park bathroom daily and other minor custodial work
• Perform cleanup at the end of the day or when job is completed, including picking up tools and clearing work areas of spills and debris
• Operate power tools such as power washer, leaf blower and weed eater, as well as basic hand tools such as brooms, shovels, rakes and hoes
• Assist with daily and weekly trash pick-up on park grounds and Town trash receptacles
• Assist with other maintenance duties as assigned

Have you ever thought about a career in municipal landscape maintenance?

Do you love working outdoors, utilizing equipment and tools to maintain and repair irrigation, plant trees, and assist a tree crew?

Are you looking for a career where every day is different but organization is stable?

Does the idea of learning about plant care, irrigation, tree maintenance, and traffic control along with assisting customers and fellow employees interest you?

Do you work well with others and love the challenge of tough assignments?

Then we want to talk to you!

Details:

• Full-time regular position, the schedule consists of a 4/10 typically working Tuesday through Friday
• Salary range $21.34 to $27.26 hourly with Excellent Benefits (see below) 

This position will receive a four percent (4%) cost of living increase effective April 2024.

• The new salary range effective April 2024, will be $22.19 - $28.35 hourly
• To view the full job description, click on the link:

Minimum Qualifications for consideration: Any combination of education and experience that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be:

Education/Training: Formal or informal education or training which ensures the ability to read and write at a level necessary for successful job performance.

Experience: Two years of general maintenance experience performing field maintenance work within the assigned area of responsibility.

License or Certificate: Possession of, or ability to obtain, an appropriate, valid Class A driver license within one year (Landscape or Streets) of employment.

Some positions may require possession of, or ability to obtain, an Electrical Hazards Awareness certificate within one year of employment.

Possession of, or ability to obtain, CPR and First Aid certifications within the first six months. Additional industry-specific certifications may be required depending on area of assignment.