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Landscape Reviewer & Inspector OR Senior Landscape Reviewer & Inspector

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Landscape Reviewer & Inspector OR Senior Landscape Reviewer & Inspector

Salary

$37.06 - $56.02 Hourly

Location

City of Thornton; City Hall, CO

Job Type

Regular Full-Time

Job Number

25220

Department

City Development

Division

Planning

Opening Date

08/01/2025

Closing Date

8/18/2025 5:00 PM Mountain

FLSA

Non-Exempt

WORK HOURS

STANDARD 40 HOUR WORKWEEK

PROBATION

ONE YEAR (IF NOT CURRENTLY A CERTIFIED EMPLOYEE)

STATUS 2

FLSA NON-EXEMPT/CAREER SERVICE INCLUDED

BENEFITS

SEE BENEFITS TAB

+ Description

+ Benefits

+ Questions

Join a dynamic team helping to shape the future of Thornton's landscapes and outdoor water use.

Are you passionate about landscape architecture, irrigation design, construction, and want to help transform our community by helping applicants and developers create attractive, maintainable, and water-conserving landscapes? The City of Thornton is seeking a Landscape Reviewer & Inspector (or Senior, depending on experience) to help shape the City’s private streetscapes, open spaces, parks, and trails through creative landscape planning, detailed inspection, and forward-thinking design.

In this impactful role, you'll collaborate with planners, developers, engineers, and community members to ensure Thornton’s private developments meet the highest standards of beauty, sustainability, and functionality. From reviewing creative landscape plans to inspecting lush new installations — you won’t just be reviewing the plans; you’ll be helping to bring them to life.

If you're ready to leave your mark on a growing city with a vision for the future, and you’re driven by both detail and design — we encourage you to apply!

The full hourly pay ranges for each level of this position are:

+ Landscape Reviewer & Inspector: $37.06 - $48.92 hourly

+ Senior Landscape Reviewer & Inspector: $42.44 - $56.02 hourly

The hiring rate and level offered to the successful candidate will be determined based on the candidate's previous experience and related education.

GENERAL SUMMARY

Under specified direction, performs advanced and complex work in the field of landscape architecture, irrigation, environmental design, and development for the city, focusing on commercial and residential projects, parks, open space, trails, and streetscapes.

Positions in this classification are flexibly staffed and may be filled by advancement or, when filled from the outside, require previous and directly related experience.

Landscape Reviewer & Inspector

Under general supervision, administers plan review and inspection functions for city landscape and irrigation construction projects to ensure conformance with requirements, approved plans and specifications.

Senior Landscape Review & Inspector

Under direction, performs advanced and complex work in the field of planning, environmental urban design and development for the city, focusing on commercial and residential projects, parks, open space, trails, and streetscapes. Works independently, exercising independent judgement and initiative.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

(Essential functions, as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act may include the following tasks, knowledge, skills and other characteristics. The list of tasks is ILLUSTRATIVE ONLY, and is not a comprehensive listing of all functions and tasks performed by positions in this class.)

Performs professional work in landscape architecture, irrigation, and environmental design by analyzing and reviewing development applications or proposals for annexations, zoning requests, conceptual site plans, subdivisions and development permits for compliance with appropriate landscape and irrigation principles, regulations and policies. Formulates recommendations for private developers focusing on common landscaping, irrigation, parks, open space, trails, urban design and environmental resources and other planning issues for commercial development and residential subdivisions.

Monitors, reviews, and inspects the installation and construction of landscaping, irrigation, trail, park, and open space improvements for conformance with approved plans. Conducts site visits and field inspections upon completion of development projects to verify compliance with City Code and approved development landscape permits, and to ensure conformance with applicable city, state, and federal standards.

Assists Code Compliance Officers in resolving landscape related Code violations and provide review and inspection of past applications for general conformance to approved documents, issuing non-conformance and preventative code enforcement notices as required.

Coordinates the implementation of the city of Thornton Parks and Open Space Master Plan within private development applications and ensures the goals and objectives of the city of Thornton Comprehensive Plan are met with regard to parks, open space, trails, urban design, and environmental resource issues. Assist with elements of the city of Thornton Comprehensive Plan and Parks and Open Space Master Plan as requested by other departments.

Provides professional level staff assistance to current planning, development engineering, parks, and city staff in other departments as requested.

Provides general assistance to planners and code compliance officers in upholding City Development Code requirements.

Participates with various city staff in pre-application meetings with developers and consultants and engages in pre- and post-submittal meetings with applicants as requested.

Assists in drafting landscape requirements to be included in development agreements between the city and private developers. Monitors compliance with developer agreements during construction to ensure completion upon the agreed timelines as needed.

Coordinates and manages meetings with developers, design teams, contractors, and outside agencies.

Assists in the review, preparation, and issuance of development landscape construction permits.

Schedule inspections, walk-throughs, and warranty reviews with contractors and other city staff for all private development applications and on public improvements to be turned over to city staff. Inspects materials included for identification and conformance to specifications and approved plans. Works with applicants and field personnel to address construction issues and concerns. Prepares punch lists of inadequate items, ensuring they are replaced or repaired prior to issuance of acceptance letters.

Reviews field design changes or technical solutions to address unforeseen site conditions. Provides feedback and memorializes changes to ensure continuity with the approved plan sets. Reviews landscape and irrigation as-built drawings for accuracy on public improvements.

Coordinates landscape performance surety for private improvement projects as allowed and required by Code.

Reviews and inspects traffic control permits related to landscape work on public improvements in the public right of way.

Develops and updates handout materials, checklists, and presentations used by the landscape review and inspection team.

Researches and defines code requirements and city Standards and Specifications for landscape, irrigation, park facilities and trail construction. Negotiates with applicants, developers and other departments to make needed changes regarding development requirements to ensure quality recreational facilities, landscape standards, urban design, and open space.

Utilizes the GIS mapping program in the course of researching and reviewing plans and projects.

Assists with community outreach and education efforts by preparing articles and participating in community events.

Responds to inquiries, complaints and concerns from the public related to development projects and landscaping in general.

Assists in preparing and presenting technical reports for Planning Commission, City Council and other boards and commissions. May provide technical assistance and support for the Parks and Open Space Advisory Commission (POSAC).

Assists with the development and revision of landscape design guidelines, code, standards and specifications. Assists with ordinance revisions related to parks, open space, trails and environmental resource issues.

Participates in regional planning efforts and researches local, regional and national issues related to landscape, irrigation, and water conversation.

Provides technical assistance and support for capital improvement projects. Conducts project management activities with other city divisions and departments, contractors, consultants and outside agencies.

Assists with website development and education efforts related to landscaping, irrigation, water conservation and management of HOA common landscaping.

Assists in the development of department budget information, goals, objectives, policies, and procedures.

Maintains appropriate records and files.

May provide functional supervision for interns or contract employees and mentor or assist in training less experienced staff.

May serve in an acting capacity during absences.

Performs other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education/Experience:

Landscape Reviewer & Inspector

High school diploma or GED; four years' experience providing technical support in landscape industry and one year of inspection, community development, or a related field. Bachelor's degree in Landscape Architecture preferred. Equivalent combinations of education and experience may be considered.

Senior Landscape Reviewer & Inspector

Bachelor's degree in Landscape Architecture or related field from an accredited college or university and five years of professional experience in landscape architect-related experience. Master's degree in Landscape Architecture is preferred. Equivalent combinations of education and experience may be considered.

Licensing/Certification Requirements:

Valid Colorado driver’s license with a safe driving record is required for both levels.

Landscape Reviewer & Inspector

At least one valid license/certification from list noted below is required within two years of hire.

Senior Landscape Reviewer & Inspector

Current possession of two or more valid licenses/certifications from list noted below is required. Possession of a Professional Landscape Architect license in the State of Colorado preferred.

Licenses/Certification Options:

Certified Landscape Irrigation Auditor (CLIA)

Certified Irrigation Contractor (CIC)

Certified Irrigation Designer-Landscape (CID-Landscape)

Qualified Water Efficient Landscaper (QWEL)

International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) Certified Arborist

National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP) Turfgrass Management

Certified Playground Safety Inspector (CPSI)

Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Accredited Professional

American Traffic Safety Services Association (ATSSA) Traffic Control Technician

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Landscape Review & Inspector

Knowledge of the policies, procedures and goals of the city of Thornton and the department, including the Thornton Comprehensive Plan, master plans, and neighborhood plans.

Knowledge of basic applicable federal, state, and local laws, statutes, and ordinances related to landscape, irrigation, and water conservation issues.

Knowledge of development codes and ordinances related to land use, zoning, subdivisions and annexations as they relate to landscape and irrigation requirements.

Knowledge of the theory, principles, and practices of parks of landscape architecture and irrigation design in the practice of landscape, park, open space and trail design.

Knowledge of landscape design and construction including, but not limited to, current practices relating to methods and materials used in the industry and typical defects and faults likely to occur in landscape construction.

Knowledge of park design amenities for a variety of park sizes, and the facilities and recreational amenities that comprise each one of them.

Knowledge of basic principles of surveying, soil mechanics, and basic structural design.

Knowledge of recommended traffic control techniques and alternatives.

Skill in reviewing and analyzing landscape, irrigation plans and specifications for development proposals/applications such as annexations, zoning requests, subdivisions, development permits, and construction drawings for landscape and irrigation related elements.

Skill in irrigation design and understanding of water conservation principles as they relate to irrigation system efficiencies and ramifications to city water utility goals.

Skill in performing advanced and complex landscape architectural or irrigation design and inspection functions.

Skill in interpreting comprehensive plans, master plans and area plans, and in developing planning policy and program proposals regarding landscape ordinance, parks, trails, open space, and wetland policy.

Skill in researching and defining landscape and irrigation code requirements pertinent to parks, open space, trails and environmental resources and other landscape planning issues.

Skill in the practical principles, hydrology, and components or irrigation systems.

Ability to conduct site visits and field inspections of development projects to verify compliance with codes and approval permits.

Ability to exercise initiative, judgment, and decision making in solving problems and meeting organizational objectives.

Ability and experience in the use of several software programs including MSWord, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Bluebeam, GIS, standard office equipment, and mobile computing technology.

Ability to listen well and communicate effectively orally and in writing with various audiences.

Ability to conduct research utilizing various sources of information.

Ability to organize and manage multiple and competing tasks.

Ability to handle conflicts or sensitive situations, and deal with the public in a mature, effective, and responsible manner.

Ability in the practice of landscape architecture, irrigation design and construction including, but not limited to, current practices relating to methods and materials used in the industry.

Ability to properly track and administer landscape surety holdings.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with city employees, city boards and commissions, other governmental agencies, vendors, and the public.

Ability to effectively convert abstract ideas into easily understood procedural guidance.

Ability to conduct meetings with developers, applicants, and other city department staff.

Ability to identify, research and analyze problems or issues regarding landscape and irrigation related items and to develop strategies and/or make sound recommendations to address them.

Senior Landscape Reviewer & Inspector

In addition to previous requirements:

Knowledge and understanding of the organizations purpose, goals, current issues, projects, and employee responsibilities of the Department

Skill in writing comprehensive reports.

Skill in independently adapting, interpreting, and applying written guidelines, precedents, and standardized work practices to a variety of unprecedented or problematic situations.

Skill in interpreting and understanding detailed construction cost estimates for landscape and irrigation improvements of varying size and complexity.

Ability to demonstrate advanced principles of landscape architecture, engineering, irrigation, environmental and urban design, project administration and inspection.

Ability to interpret complex landscape, irrigation, subdivision plats, site plans and specifications to effectively analyze and identify problems and apply sound reasoning for alternative solutions aligning to the Departments goals and applicable City Code and Standards.

Ability in the practices and techniques of preparing complex landscape and irrigation plans, and in developing landscape policy and program proposals.

Ability to research and de?ne code requirements pertinent to landscape and irrigation aspects of development applications.

Ability to perform advanced and complex landscape architectural and irrigation design related tasks and functions.

Ability to facilitate and negotiate resolutions to complex issues and develop strategies and recommendations to address them.

Ability to conduct productive meetings with developers, land use planners, architects, and the public.

Ability to review and analyze detailed and complex landscape development proposals.

Ability to formulate sound recommendations regarding landscape and irrigation issues and development cases.

Ability to prepare developer agreements and contracts.

Ability to exercise considerable independence and initiative.

Ability to research, develop, and lead formal and informal presentations and discussions with diverse groups.

Ability to establish and maintain e?ective working relationships with city boards and commissions, other agencies, and council members.

Physical and Mental Requirements:

While performing the essential duties of this job, the employee is required to stoop, kneel, crouch, stand, walk, finger, grasp, feel, talk, hear, and make repetitive motions. This position is considered light work, exerting up to 20 pounds of force occasionally and/or up to 10 pounds of force frequently, and/or a negligible amount of force constantly to move objects. The employee is required to have close visual acuity, and the employee is subject to both inside and outside environmental conditions. The employee may be subject to noise, hazards, and atmospheric conditions.

TESTING PROCEDURES

Examinations may include but are not limited to application screening beyond minimum qualifications; written, oral, practical exercise or any combination thereof or other job related assessment deemed appropriate by Human Resources.

Your application will be used as a screening tool. Completeness and accuracy are important! Any false or untrue statements or material omissions in the application and related paperwork or during the selection process could disqualify you from consideration.

As a condition of employment, the city of Thornton conducts background investigations for all positions which may also include a review of credit report and/or driving record. A drug screen, physical, and/or psychological examination administered by a city-designated provider will be required for pre-determined positions.

The City of Thornton is an equal opportunity employer.

The City of Thornton offers employees an outstanding benefits package. Benefit eligibility is based on the status of the position. Please email [email protected] to receive a copy of our 2025 Benefits Guide.

Benefits offered may include the following depending on the job type/status of the position:

+ Health Insurance

+ Dental Insurance

+ Vision Insurance

+ Life, Dependent Life & Supplemental Life Insurance Options

+ Voluntary Accidental Death & Dismemberment Policy

+ Flexible Spending Plan

+ Retiree Health Savings Plan

+ Pension Plan & Deferred Compensation Plans

+ Short & Long-term Disability Plans

+ Paid Holidays

+ Vacation & Sick Leave

+ Multilingual Incentive Pay

+ Recreation Pass

+ Wellness Program - Learn more here (https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ecAZ5bF8G3UKkXFWVXFFrqVAbC4DQyjc/view?usp=sharing)

+ In-House Training Opportunities

+ Tuition Reimbursement

+ Employee Assistance Program

+ Flexible Schedules

+ Hybrid Schedules