Planning Technician

This position is located in Custer, SD. Relocation or commute required. Custer County is currently accepting applications for a full-time Planning Technician. This position is ideal for someone who is detail-oriented, organized, and enjoys a combination of office work, customer service, and fieldwork. The Planning Technician plays an important role in supporting land use and development throughout Custer County by administering permits, conducting inspections, maintaining records, assisting with ordinance compliance, and providing public assistance.

The ideal candidate will be adaptable, self-motivated, and comfortable working both independently and as part of a team. Strong communication, organizational, and time management skills are essential, along with the ability to manage multiple priorities while providing excellent customer service to property owners, builders, contractors, and the public.

This is a full-time, 40-hour-per-week position with a Monday–Friday schedule (8:00 AM–5:00 PM), starting at $19.04 per hour, with paid leave and a comprehensive county benefits package. The position offers daytime hours, no weekends, most holidays off, and opportunities for professional growth. The position reports to the Planning Director.

Key responsibilities include

Reviewing, processing, and issuing building, wastewater, approach, and other development permits and applications. Conducting preliminary and final inspections for wastewater systems, approaches, and other permitted activities. Maintaining permit files, inspection records, electronic databases, and other planning-related documentation.

Responding to public inquiries regarding planning regulations, permit requirements, land development, and property information. Providing information to property owners, builders, contractors, and others regarding the permitting, review, and inspection process. Providing excellent customer service in person, by telephone, and electronically.

Performing general clerical duties, including typing, data entry, filing, scanning, copying, and maintaining electronic and paper records. Supporting daily office operations and performing other related duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

High school diploma or GED required. Knowledge of the layout of Custer County and the ability to read legal descriptions. Knowledge of planning, permitting, Geographic Information Systems (GIS) software, records management, or a related field preferred. Customer service experience highly valued. Strong organizational and time management skills, attention to detail, and accurate recordkeeping.

Ability to prioritize multiple tasks while meeting deadlines and maintaining accuracy. Ability to understand and apply office procedures, policies, and applicable laws. Ability to learn planning, permitting, and records management software. Strong verbal and written communication skills. Ability to work independently and collaboratively with staff, elected officials, contractors, consultants, and the public.

Ability to travel throughout Custer County, safely operate a county vehicle, and navigate uneven terrain during inspections. Ability to sit, stand, walk, bend, kneel, and reach as needed, and lift or move up to 25 pounds unassisted. Valid South Dakota Driver’s License required or the ability to obtain one. Custer County is an Equal Opportunity Employer.