This position is within the Development Services Department, which consists of Planning, Engineering, and Building Codes. The Planning Division is comprised of six planning positions total. 

The Principal Planner is under the general supervision of the City Planner and manages the development review process, including review, delegation, and coordination of all requests for land entitlements, subdivisions, and site plans as assigned. The position additionally supports the long-range planning and zoning administration functions of the Planning & Zoning Division within the City of Columbia Development Services Department. This position may supervise other personnel as needed.

Work involves tracking of development services activities. The role manages and coordinates the Development Review Committee (DRC) process for review and approval of development project submissions; rezoning applications, zoning conditions, and documentation for compliance with Columbia ordinances, policies, and procedures. The Principal Planner tracks and addresses comments arising out of discussions in DRC.

The position requires considerable knowledge of the principles, methods, and practices of planning, including strong knowledge of current planning and development review. The Principal Planner is responsible for ensuring month-to-month reviews of proposed development are consistent with the Comprehensive Plan and related implementing regulations. The position ensures that new development and redevelopment creates the community character envisioned by the Planning Commission and City Council. Work involves extensive contact with developers, engineers, architects, builders, other allied professions, citizens, and other City departments.