PLANNER 37041

6/1/90 B

This is the first class in the Planner series that develops comprehensive written, multi-biennial plans that include identification and analysis of alternative actions. Positions in this class employ basic data collection techniques, apply prescribed analytical and evaluation methods, and systematically forecast and project future long range needs related to policies, strategies, finances, and/or services to make recommendations to decision makers. This class is distinguished from the Senior Planner class by the latter's responsibility to function as full time project leaders conducting large scale, agency-wide studies. It is distinguished from all classes in the Policy Analyst series by the latter's responsibility to develop broad agency policies, regulations and legislation.

Complexity of Work: Performs work of moderate difficulty which involves applying prescribed techniques and approaches to data gathering; assisting in identifying existing situations and anticipating future changes and impacts; and assisting in proposing programs and courses of actions to be followed by State and local officials for future needs. The work may be characterized by the repetitive nature of the analyses, the recurring nature of assignments, and/or the limited variety of the applied research methods. Positions conduct field investigations, economic or public opinion surveys, demographic studies, or other appropriate research to gather required information; and organize basic statistical data into preliminary reports, maps, charts, and other layouts. Meets with private, public and state agencies, organizations and institutions and provides technical on site assistance in the research, planning, development, coordination, and implementation of proposed programs; and assists with the development of proposals for alternative methods of implementation.

Supervision Given: Supervision is typically not a factor.

Supervision Received: Performs work under the general supervision of a Senior Planner, Policy and Planning Supervisor, Policy and Planning Manager, Policy and Planning Director or other agency administrator. Work methods are prescribed by the supervisor; work plans and project objectives are predetermined prior to beginning assignments; and work is reviewed for adherence to instructions, accuracy and completeness.

Scope: Work affects the successful completion of specific limited projects which affect specific agency operations or units; and/or affects a narrowly defined portion of a broader study which crosses agency subdivisions; or is agency-wide and has some external impact.

Impact of Actions: Effective job performance results in the provision of sound recommendations and conclusions which positively impact agency management decisions. Errors negatively affect the validity and reliability of the analysis, recommendations and conclusions of larger studies.

Personal Contacts: Frequent internal and external contacts with agency employees and managers involving written communications, information gathering and consultation on projects; with staff from other state agencies, federal/local government administrators, vendors, and the public to clarify data and to obtain or provide information.

Knowledge: Working knowledge of organizational functions; of planning cycles and systems; of data collection and interviewing techniques; of statistical analysis and interpretation; of sampling methods and techniques; and of data processing systems and applications.

Skills: Working skill in keyboarding.

Abilities: Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing: to research, compile, and analyze data; to establish and maintain effective work relationships; and to manage critical deadlines.

Licenses or Certification: None.

Education or Training: Graduation from an accredited college or university with major course work in planning, public or business administration, operations research, geography, civil engineering or a related field.

Level and Type Experience: None required for entrance into this class.

An equivalent combination of training and experience indication possession of the preceding knowledge and abilities may substitute for this education and experience.

This class was established in June, 1990, as a result of the Classification Review/Specification Update Program. It replaces the Corrections Planner B, Health Planning Consultant A, and the State Planner B and C classes.