The Town of Spring Lake is seeking an experienced and motivated planning professional to serve as its Director of Planning & Zoning. This position is responsible for managing and directing all activities of the Planning Department, including zoning administration, land use planning, development review, code enforcement, and community development initiatives.
The Director of Planning & Zoning serves as a key advisor to the Town Manager, Planning Board, Board of Adjustment, elected officials, developers, business owners, and residents regarding planning, zoning, growth management, and development matters.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Administers and enforces the Town's zoning, subdivision, nuisance, housing, and land development ordinances.
- Reviews development proposals, site plans, subdivision plats, rezoning requests, special use permits, variances, and other planning-related applications for compliance with local regulations.
- Provides technical assistance and guidance to developers, engineers, surveyors, contractors, businesses, and citizens regarding development regulations and land use requirements.
- Coordinates planning and zoning activities with internal departments, outside agencies, consultants, and regulatory organizations.
- Prepares and presents reports, recommendations, ordinances, resolutions, maps, and planning studies to the Town Manager, Planning Board, Board of Adjustment, and Board of Aldermen.
- Conducts research and analysis related to population growth, development trends, land use, housing, transportation, and community development.
- Maintains zoning maps, land use maps, parcel information, and planning records.
- Investigates zoning, nuisance, and code enforcement complaints and issues notices of violation, citations, and corrective action requirements when necessary.
- Assists with inspections and field investigations to ensure compliance with zoning regulations and applicable codes.
- Coordinates zoning review and approval processes related to building permits and development projects.
- Prepares presentations, visual aids, maps, charts, and supporting documentation for public meetings and hearings.
- Reviews and recommends updates to zoning ordinances, development regulations, and planning policies.
- Represents the Town at public meetings, community events, and regional planning initiatives.
- Performs other related duties as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in Urban Planning, Regional Planning, Public Administration, Geography, Community Development, or a closely related field.
- Three (3) to five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in planning, zoning administration, community development, land use regulation, or a related field.
- Municipal government experience preferred.
- An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.
- Valid North Carolina Driver's License.
- Ability to attend evening meetings as required.
- Ability to conduct field inspections and site visits in varying weather conditions.
- Certification through the American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) or ability to obtain certification is preferred.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Knowledge of municipal planning principles, zoning administration, and community development practices.
- Knowledge of North Carolina planning and zoning laws and local government operations.
- Knowledge of land use regulations, subdivision administration, development review processes, and code enforcement practices.
- Ability to analyze technical data, maps, plans, ordinances, and development proposals.
- Ability to interpret and apply federal, state, and local regulations.
- Ability to prepare clear and concise reports, presentations, and recommendations.
- Strong customer service and public engagement skills.
- Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with elected officials, employees, developers, contractors, consultants, and the public.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications and planning-related software.
Compensation and Benefits
The Town offers a competitive salary based on qualifications and experience, along with a comprehensive benefits package that includes participation in the North Carolina Local Government Employees' Retirement System, health insurance, paid leave, and professional development opportunities.
How to apply
This position is open until filled.
Submit your completed Town of Spring Lake employment application to:
Town of Spring Lake
Attn: Human Resources
300 Ruth Street
Spring Lake, NC 28390
Or email your application to: [email protected]
The Town of Spring Lake is an Equal Opportunity Employer and values diversity in the workplace.
Pay: $51,468.00 - $65,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 457(b)
- Dental insurance
- Dependent care reimbursement
- Employee assistance program
- Flexible spending account
- Health insurance
- Health savings account
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Retirement plan
- Tuition reimbursement
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
