Associate Planner job in Ridgefield

Position Description: Under the guidance of the Community Development Director this position will perform professional-level work in planning and development review for the City of Ridgefield. The focus of the position will be current planning and development review with the opportunity to work on long range projects.
The position provides complex and advanced planning assistance to the City, exercises independent judgment on a variety of planning issues, makes recommendations on department operations, and prepares and presents planning related reports and studies to the Planning Commission. Examples of job duties include:
• Analyze and review development proposals or applications such as re-zoning requests, preliminary and final plats, minor subdivisions, architectural reviews, development permits, variance applications, minor building permits, and temporary use permits for compliance with appropriate planning principles, regulations, and policies.
• Assist in the development and implementation of growth management, land use, housing, facilities or other plans and codes to meet the City needs.
• Confer with architects, builders, attorneys, contractors, engineers, and the general public regarding City development policies and standards.
• Organize and facilitate meetings with developers and community groups to introduce and discuss new development proposals and planning projects.
• Identify community problems, issues, and opportunities in particular neighborhoods that could be mitigated through better community planning.
• Develop strategies to promote economic and community development of efficient land use consistent with community goals.

Ideal Candidate: 

Any combination of experience and education which provides the applicant with the level of required knowledge and abilities may be considered. A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be:

1.       A Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited four-year college or university with major coursework in Urban Planning or a related field.

2.       Two years of professional experience in planning, zoning and/or related community development activities in a municipal setting.

3.       In-depth knowledge within one or more planning specialties such as economic development, comprehensive planning, environmental planning, or current planning. 

 All employees are expected to work in a manner consistent with the City of Ridgefield’s Team Philosophy; specifically: Work and act as a team player in all interactions with other city employees; provide a high level of customer service at all times; project and maintain a positive image with those contacted in the course of work; develop and maintain collaborative and respectful working relationships with team members and others; and, consistently provide quality service.

How to Apply: 

A resume, cover letter, and a completed City of Ridgefield employment application are required. Your cover letter should be no more than two pages and should describe your qualifications related to the position and interest in working for the City of Ridgefield.  

Selected candidates will be invited to participate in an interview process. References will be contacted only following candidate approval.

 Your completed application should be delivered to:

Lee Knottnerus
City of Ridgefield
PO Box 608
230 Pioneer Street
Ridgefield, WA 98642

Lee.Knottnerus@ci.ridgefield.wa.us