Planner

Position - Planner I/ Planner II (Entry to Mid-Level)

Department/Division - Community Development
FLSA Status - Non-Exempt

Grade - 50-55
Reports To - Community Development Director
Location - Bonner Springs, Kansas

Position Summary

The City of Bonner Springs is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Planner to support the City’s planning and development efforts. This position will assist with zoning reviews, data analysis, and community planning initiatives. The City Planner works under the supervision of the Community Development Director and contributes to the implementation of the City’s Comprehensive Plan and zoning ordinances. This role is ideal for recent graduates or early-career professionals interested in gaining hands-on experience in urban planning, zoning, and community development. The Entry-Level Planner will assist with reviewing development proposals, preparing reports, conducting research, supporting public engagement efforts and should be proficient in ArcGIS.

Essential Functions

• Assist in reviewing site plans, rezoning applications, and development proposals for compliance with City codes and zoning regulations.
• Support in the preparation of staff reports, maps, and visual materials for the Board of Zoning Appeals, Planning Commission and City Council meetings.

• Supports community engagement efforts, including organizing and attending public meetings, workshops, and open houses.
• Conduct research and analysis using ArcGIS related to land use, zoning, and community demographics.
• Help maintain planning records, permit tracking systems, project files and GIS mapping layers.
• Provide basic information to the public, developers, and other stakeholders regarding planning procedures, projects, zoning regulations and land use decisions.
• Participate in community engagement activities, including public meetings and workshops to gather input and share information.
• Assist with drafting updates to the City’s Comprehensive Plan and Unified Development Ordinance.
• Provides information and customer service to the public, developers, and property owners regarding zoning regulations, land use policies, and development processes.

• Collaborate with internal departments and external agencies on planning-related tasks.
• Perform field visits to collect data and assess development sites.

• Provide general information to the public regarding zoning, land use, and assist with inspections and documentation.
• Support grant research and application preparation for planning-related projects.

• Perform other duties as assigned to support the Community Development team.

Qualifications

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable an individual with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Urban Planning, Geography, GIS, or a related field.
• Internship or coursework experience in planning, zoning, or GIS preferred.
• Experience with ArcGIS (coursework, projects, or internships) preferred.

Certifications (Preferred but Not Required)

• GIS coursework or experience is beneficial.
• AICP Candidate or interest in pursuing certification.
• Valid Kansas Driver’s License.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Basic knowledge of urban planning principles, zoning regulations, and land use practices.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office
• Proficiency in ArcGIS for mapping, spatial analysis, and data visualization.
• Familiarity with Kansas planning statutes and municipal codes is a plus.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to conduct research, interpret maps, site plans, analyze data and development proposals.
• Ability to work collaboratively with team members and the public.
• Ability to organize and prioritize work to meet deadlines and respond to public inquiries professionally.
• Willingness to learn and take initiative on new tasks.

Work Environment

• Work is performed in both office and field settings.

• Occasional exposure to outdoor
• Occasional evening meetings may be required.
• Detail-oriented with strong organizational and time management skills.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to conduct site visits and fieldwork in various weather conditions and construction sites.

• May require lifting up to 25 pounds.

Special Requirements

• GIS Certification or coursework preferred.
• Willingness to pursue professional development and certifications (e.g., AICP).