Park Planner - Design & Development Section

To apply for the Park Planner position at the City of Fort Worth, candidates should hold a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in Landscape Architecture, Architecture, Environmental Engineering, Civil Engineering, or a similar field related to land development. Additionally, having at least one year of responsible experience in land development is essential.

As a Park Planner at the City of Fort Worth, you will manage land acquisitions, oversee project setups, schedules, and budgets, read construction documents, coordinate with various departments and agencies, and facilitate public meetings. Your role ensures that the parks and recreational spaces contribute positively to the community.

While project management experience is preferred for the Park Planner position at the City of Fort Worth, it is not strictly necessary. However, familiarity with project management tools can definitely enhance your application and prepare you for the responsibilities within this role.

The working conditions for a Park Planner at the City of Fort Worth may involve standard office tasks, but some fieldwork could require physical activity such as walking, standing, and interacting with various stakeholders. Light work, including lifting up to 20 pounds occasionally, may also be part of the job depending on specific assignments.

The City of Fort Worth offers a comprehensive benefits package to Park Planners, including 11 paid holidays, healthcare options (medical, dental, and vision), paid time off, pension plans, and professional development opportunities. These benefits reflect the City’s commitment to valuing and supporting its employees.

In managing conflicting deadlines, I prioritize tasks based on their impact on the project timeline and community engagement. I communicate openly with team members to clarify expectations and determine the best course of action, allowing for flexibility when necessary to meet project goals.

My experience with land acquisition processes includes conducting feasibility studies, engaging in negotiations with landowners, and managing project budgets. I ensure compliance with local regulations and maintain clear communication with all stakeholders throughout the process.

I utilize a combination of Microsoft Office Suite, including Excel for budgeting and tracking, and project management software like E-builder. This helps streamline communication, documentation, and project scheduling, making the process more efficient.

In a previous project, I faced tight deadlines due to unexpected regulatory changes. I proactively engaged stakeholders and adjusted project timelines while ensuring all requirements were met. This collaborative approach allowed us to stay on track despite the challenges.

To ensure community involvement, I actively facilitate public meetings, conduct surveys, and gather feedback from residents. By incorporating their input into the planning process, I foster a sense of ownership and ensure that the parks meet the community's needs and desires.

Collaboration is key in my work as a Park Planner. Engaging with architects, engineers, and community members not only creates better solutions but also fosters relationships that enhance project outcomes. I believe that diverse perspectives lead to more innovative and effective park designs.

When facing opposition, I prioritize listening to community concerns and addressing them thoughtfully. I engage in constructive dialogue, providing information on the benefits of the proposed design, and remain open to suggestions that could improve the project.

To assess community needs, I conduct surveys, analyze demographic data, and hold focus groups. This research helps identify gaps in park services and informs decision-making throughout the planning process, ensuring that our designs resonate with the community.

I approach construction documents with keen attention to detail. I first familiarize myself with the project scope and necessary specifications, then systematically analyze the plans for compliance with zoning and environmental regulations, ensuring accuracy before moving forward.

I want to work as a Park Planner for the City of Fort Worth because I am passionate about creating vibrant and sustainable recreational spaces. I admire Fort Worth's commitment to community development and diversity and would love to contribute my skills to enhance the quality of life for its residents.