Planner I​/II Lake

Overview

This position encompasses the full range of professional planning duties within Lake County’s Community Planning & Development Department. The role is flexibly staffed at either the entry-level (Planner I) or intermediate level (Planner II) based on experience and qualifications.

• At the Planner I level, the role provides support for land use, zoning, and code enforcement activities under supervision, ideal for those building their planning career and developing technical and community engagement skills.
• At the Planner II level, the role performs planning duties more independently, applying professional judgment and initiative on complex projects involving land use, zoning, building codes, and development regulations. Planner II positions typically require prior related experience or promotion from Planner I.

• Review, process, and manage a variety of land use and development applications including subdivisions, rezonings, lot consolidations, boundary line adjustments, conditional use permits, variances, site plans, temporary use permits, and sign permits.
• Prepare and present clear, concise staff reports and recommendations to the Planning Commission, Board of County Commissioners, Board of Adjustment, and advisory committees.
• Respond to public and developer inquiries regarding land use regulations, zoning, permitting processes, and building code issues.
• Assist with code enforcement cases by coordinating with property owners and businesses.
• Apply and interpret the Lake County Land Development Code, Comprehensive Plan, and relevant local, state, and federal regulations.
• Contribute to the drafting or revision of land use codes, planning policies, and procedures.
• Support the development and implementation of master plans and long-range planning strategies.
• Conduct planning studies and data analysis on housing, growth management, resource protection, and community development topics.
• Coordinate with state and federal agencies, utility providers, and local jurisdictions on planning-related matters.
• Prepare legal notices and coordinate public hearings.
• Assist in grant writing and monitoring for planning-related projects, as needed.
• Train and support administrative staff or planning technicians.

• May supervise administrative or support staff depending on experience and department structure.

Compensation will be determined by the applicant’s full skillset with consideration of the following:

• Planner I:
  Bachelor’s degree in urban planning, environmental planning, public or business administration, or related field — or equivalent relevant experience.
• Planner II:
  Bachelor’s degree as above, plus at least three years of progressively responsible planning experience, including at least two years comparable to Planner I level. Additional specialized training may be required.

• Principles and practices of urban planning, land use, zoning, and development regulations.
• Lake County Comprehensive Plan, Land Development Code, and related policies.
• Ability to interpret and apply local, state, and federal planning laws and regulations.
• Experience preparing detailed written reports and delivering presentations.
• Familiarity with GIS, Microsoft Office Suite, and modern office procedures.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills; bilingual Spanish preferred.
• Ability to establish and maintain positive working relationships with diverse stakeholders.

Hazard Notice: Work is primarily conducted in a standard office environment, with occasional field visits to undeveloped, construction, or remote areas that may involve exposure to uneven terrain, inclement weather, dust, and construction-related hazards. Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) such as safety vests, hard hats, or boots may be required during field visits. Interaction with irate or emotionally charged individuals may occur when addressing code enforcement or controversial development projects.

Occasional travel and evening meetings may be required.

• Frequently sitting at a desk and extensive computer use throughout the workday.
• Reg…