ASSOCIATE PARKS PLANNER/PARKS PLANNER - OPEN UNTIL FILLED

OVERVIEW

PARKS ASSOCIATE PLANNER - Position Information
The responsibilities of this position is to work closely with supervision and directly with program and project manager to perform professional planning activities for land acquisition, natural resources management, and parks and recreation facility development.

This is the first and entry level of a three-level professional Planning series. This position differs from the other classifications in the series in that the classification is considered entry level work. It is distinguished from other positions outside of this series because it involves professional-level planning duties and judgment, and fewer routine administrative tasks. This position receives considerable immediate supervision from more senior planners. Work is reviewed by the supervisor for effectiveness and timeliness in completing projects and evaluated through conferences, reports and results obtained.

PARKS PLANNER - Position Information
Under general supervision and direction from the Parks Director, performs professional and administrative work in the planning, coordination and administration of park and open space land acquisition, park development, creating natural resource and stewardship plans, and carrying out other planning efforts as needed. Performs analytical work covering a broad range of tasks related to the planning, acquisition, and development of parks and open space lands.
Kitsap County Parks Department

QUALIFICATIONS FOR PERFORMANCE OF THE ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

ASSOCIATE PARKS PLANNER

Required Education and Experience

• Bachelors Degree in planning, parks and recreation, natural resource management, public administration, landscape architecture, or related field.

PARKS PLANNER

Required Education and Experience

• Bachelors Degree in planning, parks and recreation, natural resource management, public administration, landscape architecture, or related field; AND
• Four years of experience in parks planning, land use planning or natural resources planning; or
• Any equivalent combination of experience and education that provides the applicant with the desired knowledge, skills and ability required to perform the work.

BOTH POSITIONS

Preferred Education, Experience or Other Qualifications.

• American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) Certification
• Park and Recreation System Master Planning Certification
• Experience with resource conservation practices in park design.
• Previous experience with partnerships between public and private agencies.
• Knowledge and use of Geographical Information Systems (GIS) and ArcGIS software
• Experience working for a government agency, in the public sector, or in a parks and recreation department.

Driving Requirements
The successful incumbent must meet the driving requirements of this position and submit a copy of a current driving record/abstract (from state of residency) to review for eligibility to drive for Kitsap County prior to employment. The successful incumbent must obtain a valid Washington State Driver's License prior to hire and maintain a satisfactory driving record as outlined in the Kitsap County Vehicle Use Policy. This position is categorized as a Category 1 Driver and operates County-owned vehicle.

Required Licenses, Certificates, Examinations/Tests and Other Requirements

Please note: The incumbent is responsible for obtaining and maintaining all of the following required licenses, certifications and other requirements.

Prior to employment, the successful candidate must :

• Submit official transcripts from an accredited college or university or business school, if education is being used to meet the minimum qualifications.
• Submit copy of official certification, if certifications are being used to meet the minimum or preferred qualifications.
• Pass all job-related examinations/tests necessary to demonstrate required knowledge, skills and abilities, as determined by the hiring authority at time of job posting.
• Pass a criminal background and driving record review.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
Knowledge of :

• Project management techniques and resource management.
• The use and care of computers, related peripherals and County standard application programs such as Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint, Outlook, SharePoint, etc. any software that is used for park and open space planning.
• Principles and practices of open space, park planning, and preservation
• Landscape architecture and construction techniques, standards, specifications, and procedures.
• Environmental issues and land use entitlements.
• Park development and landscape design concepts
• Contract administration, grant writing and administration practices and principles.
• Policies, laws, codes, ordinances and other regulations and guidelines applicable to area of assignment.

Skills and/or Ability to :

• Appear for scheduled work with regular, reliable and punctual attendance.
• Work independently without regular direction and to troubleshoot problems in assigned area of responsibility.
• Interpret and apply applicable ordinances, regulations, and standard operating procedures.
• Prepare preliminary site designs.
• Read and interpret construction plans and specifications.
• Develop and strengthen collaborative community partnerships focused on parks issues.
• Facilitate and promote public input and community education by organizing and coordinating public meetings and forums.
• Prepare graphic design layouts for presentations and department marketing materials.
• Prepare and make effective presentations to groups.
• Write concise reports and establish and maintain accurate records.
• Coordinate activities with landscape architects, architects, engineers, staff, volunteer groups, and private contractors.
• Coordinate with various government agencies to obtain required permits.
• Prepare applications for grants and other funding proposals and provide feedback on program planning and effectiveness.
• Monitor budgets and funding, work schedules and grant requirements.
• Effectively plan, prioritize, organize and complete tasks within prescribed timeframes.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with others using tact, courtesy and good judgment.
• Communicate effectively with excellent written and oral communication and strong presentation and facilitation skills.
• Work independently without regular direction and troubleshoot problems in assigned area of responsibility.
• Work successfully within the context of a team as a team player.
• Work with volunteer groups.
• Maintain a professional demeanor under heavy workload and stressful situations.
• Effectively respond to and reconcile competing interests of governmental entities, community organizations, contractors and the public.
• Focus on customer needs and provide exceptional service to both internal and external stakeholders.
• Physically perform assigned duties and essential functions of the position.
• Work over 40 hours in a work week as required including working nights, weekends and holidays.

Working Conditions/Physical Activities

( The physical demands described are representative of those that must be met by the employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Kitsap County provides reasonable accommodation to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions .)

Positions in this class typically require :

• Work performed in the office environment and in the field/community.
• Field work includes working around equipment in inclement weather, noise, and noxious fumes.
• Bending, stooping, reaching (over shoulders, at waist and below waist), walking, standing and working high above ground, adequate vision sufficient to view computer, and hearing sufficient to respond to audible alarms, speaking adequate to communicate effectively, manual dexterity to grasp/handle equipment and materials.
• Must possess sufficient physical strength, coordination and mental alertness to ensure safe and efficient performance of assigned duties including lifting and carrying up to 30 pounds.

ILLUSTRATIVE EXAMPLE OF DUTIES

As an Associate Parks Planner you will proficiently perform the following:

• Work with program or project manager on multiple projects with multiple dimensions; work with other departments and agencies to coordinate and prioritize projects.
• Investigate, prepare, and finalize documents (including policies, codes, land use ordinances, comprehensive plan) on complex and sensitive planning, community development and other public policy issues.
• Conduct field evaluations and assessments to ensure code, regulation, or policy compliance.
• Research, analyze, compile data, and prepare reports to support planning decisions.
• Design, prepare and deliver presentations, articles, reports, and other information to boards, committees, groups and other organizations.
• Assist with mediation and/or negotiation of solutions consistent with policies, goals, and regulations of the program and of the County, while balancing public and private rights and interests.
• Reviews or assists in the review of moderately difficult development proposals and site plans for conformance with codes, plans, and regulations.
• Prepares and presents detailed reports on development proposals to government bodies.
• Attend meetings and on planning related matters.
• Provides information to the public regarding development regulations.
• Assists in resolving citizen and customer issues.

As an Associate Parks Planner, you'll receive a tailored development plan based on your education and experience. This plan will prepare you for the Parks Planner role by enhancing your skills to perform its duties. To be eligible for promotion to Parks Planner, you must successfully complete the development plan objectives and meet the minimum time-in-position requirements.

As a Parks Planner you will proficiently be expected to the following:
Program Administration

• Manages, monitors, directs, and reports on the department’s Planning program.
• Develop and manage the department’s land acquisition program.
• Works to implement PROS and other departmental goals and strategies.
• Review and recommend properties for potential acquisition, park development, and divestment.
• Develop and manage standards for park infrastructure including trails, interpretive signs, sign features, and other items.
• Research grants and other funding sources and prepare and assist in the administration of grant programs.
• Strategically determine and recommend funding opportunities to acquire, develop, and steward parks and open space lands and facilities.
• Review other County contracts and permit applications for potential impacts to the Parks department.

Planning and Project Management

• Participate in the research, updating, and development of the Parks, Recreation, and Open Space (PROS) and other Parks department plans.
• Develops long-range plans to align department growth and evolution with community needs.
• Prepares Park planning and acquisition studies including land use and master plans for parks and open space.
• Develop and update park master plans.
• Plan and create preliminary designs for site and park development projects.
• Performs site visits and instigates proposed acquisition and park development opportunities to assess potential recreational use, cultural protection, and/or preservation suitability.
• Provide technical review of park and open space related projects.
• Recommend park and open space facility improvements.
• Provide contract supervision when directed and ensure timely preparation of contract documents for the planning and development of park and open space lands.

Public Outreach and Communication

• Develop and carry out public meetings and other outreach processes to solicit input during the development and implementation of plans.
• Conduct public needs assessments, public meetings, and workshops.
• Prepare and deliver oral and written materials for presentations.
• Represent the department at public meetings and serve as a liaison with other County departments and outside agencies.
• Presents to the Board of County Commissioners, Parks Advisory Board, and other community groups as needed.

Perform other related duties as assigned.

OTHER POSITION RELATED INFORMATION

Positions in the classification are :

• Who May Apply: This position is open to the general public. Applications will be screened for qualifications and completion of all the required materials and forms. The most competitive applicants may be contacted for further steps in the selection process, which may include testing for office and computer skills.
• This position is non-represented and covered under the Kitsap County Personnel Manual. Internal applicants should be aware that a change in union status or bargaining unit may impact your benefits and accruals. Please contact Human Resources if you have questions.
• Kitsap County is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, ancestry, color, family or medical care leave, gender identity or expression, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, national origin, physical or mental disability, political affiliation, protected veteran status, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws, regulations and ordinances. We also consider qualified applicants regardless of criminal histories, consistent with legal requirements. If you need assistance and/or a reasonable accommodation due to a disability during the application or the recruiting process, please contact our Human Resources Office.
• Only authorized employees and hiring authorities have access to the application materials submitted. Per RCW 42.56.250, all applications for public employment, including the names of applicants, resumes, and other related materials submitted with respect to an applicant are exempt from public inspection.
• This recruitment is being used to fill an existing open position, and may be used to fill future openings for up to six (6) months.
• Flexible hours are available, as approved by management.
• Associate Parks Planner
  • This position is classified as non-exempt and eligible for overtime under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA)
• Parks Planner
  • This position is classified as exempt from overtime under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA)

This position is open until filled and reviewed weekly!

At Kitsap County, we strive to take care of our team! Our employees are the greatest asset of Kitsap County, and we take pride in offering a highly competitive compensation and benefits package to all eligible employees.

County Paid Benefits Include:
Medical - Kaiser Permanente (HMO) or Aetna (PPO)
Dental -Delta Dental or Willamette
Vision - VSP
Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
Life Insurance - Basic, Accidental Death and Dismemberment (AD&D), Voluntary Term Life Insurance (VTL)
Disability - Short-term disability & Long-term disability
Voya Voluntary Insurance
Transportation incentives
Employee Assistance Program
Travel Assistance Program
Wellness program https://spf.kitsapgov.com/hr/Pages/Wellness.aspx
Benefits become effective on the first calendar day of the month following the month in which the employee is hired except if the employee's hire date is the first calendar day of the month, benefits begin on the day of hire. More information about employee benefits is available on the county's website at: https://spf.kitsapgov.com/hr/Pages/Benefits.aspx or the Kitsap County Digital Benefits Guide .

*Voluntary benefit options also available at the employee's expense

Retirement:
Employees are covered under the PERS retirement plan provided through the Washington State Department of Retirement Systems and Social Security.

Deferred Compensation (IRS Plan 457b): tax-deferred savings program

Holidays
11 paid holidays and 2 additional floating holiday per year

Vacation Leave
New employees are credited with 48 hours of annual leave upon hire and will be begin accruing at the rate of 8 hours per month starting on their 7th month of employment. Employees may carry over 360 hours from one calendar year to the next. Annual leave accrual will increase upon tenure, as follows:

Upon completion of 3 years: 15 days per year (10.00 hours per month)
Upon completion of 5 years: 20 days per year (13.33 hours per month)
Upon completion of 10 years: 25 days per year (16.67 hours per month)
Sick Leave
All new hires will be credited with 48 hours of sick leave upon hire and will begin accruing at the rate of 8 hours per month starting on their 7th month of employment. Employees may carry over 1200 hours from one calendar year to the next.

***Part-time employees benefit contributions and leave accruals will beprorated***

Current County Employees
If you are transferring or promoting into this position you are responsible for reviewing these benefit changes; prior to accepting a position. In addition, it is your responsibility to notify the Auditor's Payroll Division of a change in union status.

NOTE: This is a general overview of the benefits offered through employment with Kitsap County, and every effort has been made to ensure its accuracy. If any information on this document conflicts or is incorrect with the provisions of the Personnel Manual, applicable laws, policies, rules or official plan documents they will prevail. The Personnel Manual is available at: https://www.kitsapgov.com/hr/Pages/Personnel-Manual-2019.aspx

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• KITSAP COUNTY

• 360.337.7185

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