Planning Supervisor

Job Description

Familiarity with the operational and policy issues associated with a dynamic, forward-thinking department is required, along with a commitment to equity and inclusion. The Planning Supervisor provides direct oversight of professional planners engaged in the implementation of land use regulations and policies and code enforcement officers that support public safety and environmental protection. The Department strives to make Kirkland a livable, walkable, sustainable and safe community.

Supervises professional staff of Planners and Code Enforcement Officers; assists in development, preparation, and implementation of policies and procedures related to the efficacy of the City's development services function; and serves as a member of the department's Senior Staff team. Administers land use and environmental review regulations, ensuring regulatory compliance, sound planning, and excellent urban design.

Principal Accountabilities

Supervises and assigns tasks to Planning and Code Enforcement staff, monitors the timeliness and quality of their work product, conducts interviews and performance appraisals, and provides consultation, direction, and mentorship. Manages large and complex projects, involving oversight of consultants and coordination of staff teams. Applies professional judgment to prepare recommendations on policy and regulatory issues to the Director, Boards and Commissions, the City Council, and outside agencies and hearing bodies. Oversees Planning staff recommendations to the Director, the Design Review Board, and Hearing Examiner.

Essential Functions

• As member of the Department's management team, assists in preparation and implementation of the work program and budget, and development of departmental policies and procedures.
• Hires, trains, supervises, mentors, evaluates, and disciplines Planners/Code Enforcement Officers and related contract/temporary/intern staff. Assigns tasks and distributes workload, provides staff with technical guidance and interpretation of codes, policies and ordinances.
• Provides direction and support to staff in the performance of their tasks and reviews work products for quality.
• Serves as staff to bodies such as the Hearing Examiner, Planning Commission, Design Review Board, and City Council.
• Represents the Department/City and makes presentations at public meetings.
• Provides information, advice and technical assistance to City staff, neighborhood groups, task forces, committees, developers, media, and other interested parties.
• Prepares or directs the preparation of revisions to land development regulations, codes and ordinances, and policy documents.
• Serves as project manager or lead for special City projects or programs.
  
  

Additional Responsibilities

• May act as State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA) coordinator.
• Performs research tasks as assigned in a specialized area of study or professional knowledge.
• Serves as Department representative in a variety of interdepartmental committees.
• Represents the Department and City by formulating policy recommendations for regional, interjurisdictional, and interagency activities, and by participating in study committees or task forces.
• Assists on an as-needed basis in the event of an emergency or disaster.