Applications are currently being accepted for the position listed below. First application reviews begin 8/21/26. For more info and/or to apply online, go to www.fairmontwv.gov.
1. POSITION TITLE: Director of Planning and Development
2. DEPARTMENT: Planning & Development
3. PAY GRADE: 735 (Exempt)
4. SALARY: $85,781.00
5. GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF THE WORK OF THE POSITION:
Performs responsible professional work in daily and long-range planning functions for the City. Duties include developing and continuous evaluation of current zoning matters and formation of practice to accomplish final land use. This position involves City Planning activities of a professional nature and includes the enforcement of subdivision regulations and zoning control. The Director of Planning and Development is also responsible for the planning and implementation of various programs and projects for the City, working alongside the City’s Grant Administrator to finance said projects and programs. Work is performed in accordance with policies established by the City Charter; however, instances may arise in which professional judgment may be exercised.
6. DUTIES OF THE POSITION (ILLUSTRATIVE ONLY):
Takes lead position in all aspects of the City Planner role; plans, organizes, and reviews various aspects of planning; continuous review of the comprehensive plan and other study area plans that are needed to further both community and economic development initiatives in the City. Updates to those plans will also be the responsibility of the Director. Coordinates goals with responsible agencies; acts as the staff support to the Planning Commission and the Board of Zoning Appeals and attends all meetings; assists in the formulation of policies and administrative procedures relating to subdivision regulations, zoning and comprehensive plans. This position serves as liaison between the City and various funding agencies alongside the Grant Administrator; coordinates and manages capital improvement projects; answers questions and interprets planning to the public; confers with other government agencies, local civic groups, business leaders and developers on planning activity; informs other department heads of future plans in offer to obtain a common goal; gives grant information to the Grant Administrator as required; assists the public when they complete subdivision applications and rezoning applications; does related work as required. The Director of Planning and Development chairs the Development Review Committee and is responsible for site plan applications administration for development proposals; acts as staff support to various economic development entities and initiatives, coordinates with the Communications Manager to deliver complex planning topics and initiatives to the public. This position requires frequent travel to attend work-related meetings, meet with stakeholders on various projects, oversee development projects, etc.; however, there may also be travel outside of the local area that could require overnight stays. Also performs other duties as assigned by City Manager.
7. DESCRIPTION OF SUPERVISION RECEIVED BY AN INCUMBENT OF THIS POSITION:
The incumbent of this position receives direct supervision from the City Manager.
8. DESCRIPTION OF SUPERVISION EXERCISED BY AN INCUMBENT OF THIS POSITION:
The incumbent of this appointment directly supervises other employees of the Planning and Development Department.
9. KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES REQUIRED FOR PERFORMANCE OF THE WORK:
Familiarity with zoning regulations and their application in Urban Planning, and also subdivision regulation; knowledge of various avenues to implement a future land use plan; thorough knowledge of planning practices and principles, and of the socioeconomic implications of planning; familiarity with City, State and Federal zoning codes; thorough understanding of land-use concepts, population density and annexation problems; good knowledge of grant programs, administration of local, State and Federal grants; ability to speak in public and to formulate ideas which can be effectively communicated to the general public; ability to deal effectively with the public and major groups concerned with City planning; skill in preparing charts and maps, and in interpreting statistical data; administrative ability.
10. EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE NECESSARY FOR WORK PREPARATION:
Preferably a Master’s degree in Planning, Public Administration, or related field from an accredited college or university; some experience as a private consultant which would enhance ability to examine planning aspects from both the governmental and private industry point of view a plus; and/or some experience as a community planner with major course work in Urban Planning; any equivalent combination of experience and training which provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities. Must be proficient in Microsoft Word and Excel. Must maintain a valid WV Driver’s License.
11. PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
The noise level in the work environment is that of a typical office. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; talk clearly and hear and able to speak publicly. The employee is frequently required to walk. The employee is occasionally required to stand and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 10 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.
THE CITY OF FAIRMONT IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
Pay: $85,781.00 per year
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Flexible spending account
- Health insurance
- Health savings account
- Life insurance
- Military leave
- Paid time off
- Retirement plan
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
