Entry Level Environmental Planner Jobs in Kansas

As a condition of employment all employees must pass a post offer criminal history background check, physical examination and drug screen. All employees must also submit proof of identity and employment eligibility.
Position Summary
The Planner performs entry-level professional planning work in support of development review and floodplain management activities within the Department of Planning and Urban Development. The position assists with reviewing development proposals, site plans, and permit applications for compliance with zoning regulations, adopted plans, and local floodplain management regulations.
This role supports the Unified Government's efforts to ensure safe and responsible development in flood-prone areas through the administration of floodplain regulations consistent with the requirements of the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the National Flood Insurance Program.
The Planner I also assists the public, developers, and internal staff by providing guidance regarding land use regulations, development procedures, and floodplain requirements.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Development Plan Review
• Review development applications including site plans, subdivisions, rezonings, and special use permits for compliance with zoning regulations and development standards.
• Evaluate development proposals for consistency with the Comprehensive Plan and adopted planning policies.
• Assist with preparation of staff reports, planning analyses, and recommendations for internal review and presentation to the Planning Commission.
• Provide zoning interpretations and development guidance to applicants, property owners, and the public.
• Assist with research, mapping, and data analysis related to planning projects.
Floodplain Development Review
• Review permit applications and development proposals located within designated flood hazard areas for compliance with local floodplain management regulations.
• Assist with administration of floodplain development permits and documentation.
• Verify base flood elevations, floodway boundaries, and applicable floodplain development standards using FEMA flood insurance rate maps and related data.
• Coordinate floodplain review with engineering, stormwater, and building inspection staff.
• Provide information to property owners, developers, and contractors regarding floodplain regulations, elevation requirements, and permitting procedures.
Customer Service and Public Assistance
• Respond to public inquiries regarding zoning regulations, land use requirements, and floodplain development standards.
• Assist residents, developers, engineers, and contractors in understanding development review and floodplain permitting processes.
• Participate in pre-application meetings and development review discussions.
Research and Administrative Support
• Maintain records related to development review cases and floodplain permits.
• Assist with updates to zoning regulations, floodplain ordinances, and planning documents.
• Prepare maps, graphics, and documentation using GIS and planning software.
• Support planning studies, hazard mitigation initiatives, and resiliency planning efforts.
. Valid Driver's License Required.
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in:
• Urban or Regional Planning
• Geography
• Environmental Planning
• Civil Engineering
• Public Administration
• Landscape Architecture
• Or a closely related field
Experience
• Two (2) years of experience in planning, land-use regulation, floodplain management, environmental planning, or a related field.
• Internship or academic experience in planning or environmental management is preferred.
Preferred Qualifications
• Familiarity with floodplain regulations and flood hazard mapping.
• Basic understanding of the Federal Emergency Management Agency floodplain standards and the National Flood Insurance Program.
• Experience using GIS or mapping software.
• Coursework or training in floodplain management, hydrology, or hazard mitigation.
• Interest in pursuing professional certification such as Certified Floodplain Manager (CFM) through the Association of State Floodplain Managers.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
• Basic knowledge of urban planning principles, zoning regulations, and land use processes.
• Ability to interpret floodplain maps, site plans, and construction drawings.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Effective written and verbal communication abilities.
• Strong customer service skills and ability to explain technical regulations to the public.
• Ability to manage multiple permit and development reviews simultaneously.
Working Conditions
• Primarily office-based with occasional site visits or field inspections in flood-prone areas.
• Regular interaction with property owners, developers, engineers, architects, and contractors.
• May require attendance at evening meetings such as Planning Commission meetings.
$27.54 - $36.83/hr.
The Unified Government of Wyandotte County/Kansas City, Kansas is an Equal Opportunity Employer and values an inclusive workforce.
If you need to reach a member of the Human Resources staff, please call (913) 573-5660 or email jobs@wycokck.org.
Company: Unified Government of Wyandotte County/Kansas City, KS