Planning Assistant is the entry-level class in the professional planning series for the City of Portland’s Bureau of Development Services (BDS). Under direct supervision, Planning Assistants provide paraprofessional support to city planners who are performing land use reviews, permit reviews, land use studies and other planning activities. Planning Assistants will review applications for completeness; conduct basic research of property information; compile data; perform initial analysis and fact checking; draft initial findings and written reports; perform other related duties as assigned.

This position is an entry level position with opportunity to grow into Associate Planner positions as they become available. The hours for this position range from 24 to 35 hours per week with a flexible schedule to meet the needs of the employee. The Planning Assistant position is great for students pursing a Master’s of Urban and Regional Planning, but is not limited to applicants pursuing this degree.