GENERAL PURPOSE

Senior Planner is a mid-level planning position involving the analysis of technical data and major project work in the field of city planning and community development. This position is responsible for the relatively independent performance of planning functions or projects requiring various combinations of skill in research, analysis, development, presentation or interpretation of concepts and data pertaining to planning and implementation of plans. Work is performed according to general instructions with considerable latitude for independent initiative and judgment on assigned major projects which are not of a policymaking nature.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED

Work is subject to technical review through the evaluation of reports and through conferences. General supervision is usually received from the Planning Director or in certain cases, the Chief Planner.

SUPERVISION EXERCISED

Supervision may be exercised over field and office personnel engaged in inspecting, collecting, analyzing and presenting data.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

– Conducts studies and assists in the development of strategies related to comprehensive planning, housing and community development;

– Gathers and interprets socio-economic, housing, and physical data on comprehensive planning issues and based on an analysis of this information prepares reports and makes recommendations with regard to projects and programs;

– Works with maps, charts, graphs and other visual aids including data processing; may work with contiguous and larger jurisdictions on common problems or conflicts in assigned area of responsibility;

– Develops creative concepts for long range plans and makes studies of cost, ownership and other factors affecting feasibility;

– Researches and drafts legislation, such as zoning amendments;

– Conducts rezoning and street vacation reviews;

– Interacts with citizen groups, community based organizations and public boards, councils and commissions;

– Utilizes computerized mapping software to prepare base maps, thematic maps and individual parcel maps;

– Assists in securing funds for programs and projects such as the preparation of state grant applications and administering same;

– Performs related work in the fields of city planning and community development.

– Provides quality and effective customer service with courtesy and understanding to our customers, citizens and internal departments.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Education and Experience:

(A) Graduation from a four-year college or university with a degree in urban planning or related field, preferably possession of a master’s degree in planning or other job-related discipline; or any equivalent combination of experience and training which provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities;
(B) Possession of, or ability to obtain, a valid motor vehicle operator’s license as issued by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

Necessary Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

(A) Thorough knowledge of the principles and practices of City planning and community development;
(B) Ability to analyze and systematically compile technical and statistical information and to prepare technical reports;
(C) Ability to develop creative approaches to and concepts for planning and community development problems;
(D) Ability to develop and maintain effective working relationships with employees, officials, other agencies, other jurisdictions and the general public;
(E) Ability to evaluate planning proposals;
(F) Ability to communicate ideas both in writing and orally;
(G) Knowledge of research methodology and statistical procedures;
(H) Ability to drive and to walk for several hours at one time to conduct field research;
(I) Ability to undertake major assignments, such as project administration and monitoring, preparation of legislation or the design of new programs;
(J) Ability to work with computers; proficient with standard data and word processing software;
(K) Experience in using GIS software such as Arc GIS;
(L) Good physical condition.

TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT USED

Requires intensive daily use of personal computer. Occasional use of digital camera, scanner, and plotter.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is constantly required to sit and talk or hear. The employee is required to walk; use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools, computer, or controls; and reach with hands and arms. Frequent walking is required.

The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and the ability to adjust focus.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

The noise level in the work environment is usually quiet. Employees are required to drive and occasionally visit construction sites, and/or conduct neighborhood visual surveys.

Attendance at various evening meetings in and out of City Hall is required.

SELECTION GUIDELINES

Formal application, rating of education and experience; oral interview and reference check; job related tests may be required.

The duties listed above are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the position.

The job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and employee and is subject to change by the employer as the needs of the employer and requirements of the job change.

GENERAL PURPOSE
The HUD Grants CDBG Administrator is to keep track of all incoming requests for funding. The Administrator helps to process applications, and to ensure that the money is being used according to the HUD Guidelines. The administrator works closely with the HUD Grants Manager and HUD Grants Monitor and needs to ensure organizational effectiveness and compliance. The Administrator must possess the ability to use and understand all HUD CDBG Regulations and City systems and support the functions and services of the Bureau, department or organizational unit to which assigned primarily oriented to the Community Development Block Grant Program, Home Investment Partnerships Program, and Emergency Shelter Grants Program programs of the bureau.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED
Works under the supervision of the HUD Grants Manager

SUPERVISION EXERCISED
Exercise supervision over no one.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
– CDBG expert on all HUD rules and regulations
– Meet with and report to the HUD Grants Manager to recommend and review housing. Develop strategic and tactical goals and plans, report activities and outcomes, and develop funding proposals and applications. Communicate frequently on project and program progress and results.
– Identify and research national best practices on housing affordability.
– Oversite of contracts funded under Community Development Block Grant Program (CDBG). Will work collaboratively with the HUD Grants Manager in areas of overlap to ensure contract compliance, accurate reporting, and to promote high performing projects.
– Joint responsibility with the HUD Grants Manager for project management of cross departmental initiatives and reporting requirements including the HUD mandated annual action plan, 5-year consolidated plan, annual CAPER performance reports and other reports/requirements as needed.
– Oversight of project and performance reports, ensuring expenditures of sub-recipients are tracked and that sub-recipients are withing regulatory and timeliness compliance.
– Oversee staff management of individual project financing, budgets, and contracts.
– Process contracts funded under Community Development Block Grant Program (CDBG) and provide programmatic support to the program as needed.
– Knowledgeable on state grant programs and other grant opportunities.
– Provide quality and effective customer service with courtesy and understanding to our customers, citizens, and internal departments.

DESIRED MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS (Testing and/or interviews may be required) Education and Experience:
(A) Considerable experience in the administration of public sector programs, preferable Federal grant programs and graduation from a college or university of recognized standing, preferably a Master’s degree or any equivalent combination of experience and training which provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities.
(B) Good knowledge of HUD regulations to ensure compliance with HUD contract conditions.
(C) Good writing skills to provide clear statement as to implementation issues and the Department’s position regarding same.
(D) Sound judgement to determine possible alternative and make wise choices among them,
(E) Ability to address details and follow through on all aspects of development process
(F) Ability to secure the confidence of the neighborhood organizations, both in terms of technical skill and advocacy.
(G) Good knowledge of date collection, public speaking, and research skills.
Necessary Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
(A) Knowledge of Community Development Block Grant Program (CDBG)
(B) Knowledge of Business English, spelling and arithmetic
(C) Knowledge of modern office practices, procedures, and equipment (i.e.,
computer, calculators, fax machines, copier)
(D) Ability to understand and follow complex oral and written instructions
(E) Ability to express ideas clearly, both orally and written
(F) Ability to deal courteously and tactfully with the public and establish and maintain effective working relationships with superiors, other employees, and the public. Some knowledge of HOME & ESG programs. May have to sit for extended periods of time to read large amounts of information

TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT USED
Requires intensive daily use of computer, calculator, and copy machine

PHYSICAL DEMANDS
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is constantly required to sit and talk or hear. The employee is required to walk; use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls; and reach with hands and arms.
The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 20 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and the ability to adjust focus.

WORK ENVIRONMENT
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate

SELECTION GUIDELINES
Formal application, rating of education and experience; oral interview and reference check; job related tests may be required.
The duties listed above are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the position.
The job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and employee and is subject to change by the employer as the needs of the employer and requirements of the job change.

GENERAL PURPOSE
The HUD Grants HOME Administrator is to keep track of all incoming requests for funding. The Administrator helps to process applications, and to ensure that the money is being used according to the HUD Guidelines. The administrator works closely with the HUD Grants Manager and HUD Grants Monitor and needs to ensure organizational effectiveness and compliance. The Administrator must possess the ability to use and understand all HUD HOME Regulations and City systems and support the functions and services of the Bureau, department or organizational unit to which assigned primarily oriented to the Community Development Block Grant Program, Home Investment Partnerships Program, and Emergency Shelter Grants Program programs of the bureau.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED
Works under the supervision of the HUD Grants Manager

SUPERVISION EXERCISED
Exercise supervision over no one.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
– HOME expert on all HUD rules and regulations
– Meet with and report to the HUD Grants Manager to recommend and review housing. Develop strategic and tactical goals and plans, report activities and outcomes, and develop funding proposals and applications. Communicate frequently on project and program progress and results.
– Identify and research national best practices on housing affordability.
– Oversite of contracts funded under HOME Investment Partnership Program (HOME). Will work collaboratively with the HUD Grants Manager in areas of overlap to ensure contract compliance, accurate reporting, and to promote high performing projects.
– Joint responsibility with the HUD Grants Manager for project management of cross departmental initiatives and reporting requirements including the HUD mandated annual action plan, 5-year consolidated plan, annual CAPER performance reports and other reports/requirements as needed.
– Oversight of project and performance reports, ensuring expenditures of sub-recipients are tracked and that sub-recipients are withing regulatory and timeliness compliance.
– Oversee staff management of individual project financing, budgets, and contracts.
– Process contracts funded under HOME Investment Partnership Program (HOME) and provide programmatic support to the program as needed.
– Knowledgeable on state grant programs and other grant opportunities.

DESIRED MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS (Testing and/or interviews may be required) Education and Experience:
(A) Considerable experience in the administration of public sector programs, preferable Federal grant programs and graduation from a college or university of recognized standing, preferably a Master’s degree or any equivalent combination of experience and training which provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities.
(B) Good knowledge of HUD regulations to ensure compliance with HUD contract conditions.
(C) Good writing skills to provide clear statement as to implementation issues and the Department’s position regarding same.
(D) Sound judgement to determine possible alternative and make wise choices among them,
(E) Ability to address details and follow through on all aspects of development process
(F) Ability to secure the confidence of the neighborhood organizations, both in terms of technical skill and advocacy.
(G) Good knowledge of date collection, public speaking, and research skills.

Necessary Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
(A) Knowledge of HUD HOME Investment Partnership Program (HOME)
(B) Knowledge of Business English, spelling and arithmetic
(C) Knowledge of modern office practices, procedures, and equipment (i.e.,
computer, calculators, fax machines, copier)
(D) Ability to understand and follow complex oral and written instructions
(E) Ability to express ideas clearly, both orally and written
(F) Ability to deal courteously and tactfully with the public and establish and maintain effective working relationships with superiors, other employees, and the public. Some knowledge of CDBG & ESG programs. May have to sit for extended periods of time to read large amounts of information

TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT USED
Requires intensive daily use of computer, calculator, and copy machine

PHYSICAL DEMANDS
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is constantly required to sit and talk or hear. The employee is required to walk; use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls; and reach with hands and arms.
The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 20 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and the ability to adjust focus.

WORK ENVIRONMENT
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate

SELECTION GUIDELINES
Formal application, rating of education and experience; oral interview and reference check; job related tests may be required.
The duties listed above are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the position.
The job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and employee and is subject to change by the employer as the needs of the employer and requirements of the job change.
Provide quality and effective customer service with courtesy and understanding to our customers, citizens, and internal departments.