The City of Mount Airy is seeking a Planning Director to join our Planning Department. An employee in this position performs professional level planning work for the City of Mount Airy. Performs professional level planning work in assigned current and/or long-range planning projects, public communication, in enforcement and interpretation of ordinances, and use of various GIS and other technology depicting planning options and existing situations for the City of Mount Airy. An employee in this class performs planning work for a variety of projects for the City of Mount Airy. Work is performed independently and may include supervising the work of other staff. Day to day activities include project management for a variety of plans research, drafting original and changes, data collection, recommended development including supporting publications, graphics and maps public communication, public outreach and incorporation of input, meeting facilitation, work with consultants, and presentation to governing and advisory boards. The position also includes creating specialized maps using GIS and other technology, and updating GIS layers. An additional role is the formulation, installation, modification, and improvement of the master and subsidiary plans for the City’s physical, economic, and social development. Work includes considerable public contact often involving sensitive and controversial issues and interactions require judgment, tact, and discretion in order to for the relationships between the City and community to be effective. The Planning Director will also prepare memorandums, presentations, text amendments, and other materials for Board of Adjustment, Planning Board, Historic Preservation Commission and City Council Meetings. Work also includes coordination with other departments and serving as liaison to outside agencies. Work is supervised by the Assistant City Manager and is evaluated on the basis of attainment of individual and departmental performance objectives, feedback from the public served, and observation.

Duties and Responsibilities

· Develops, coordinates and recommends a variety of special and continuing plans related to the growth, development and redevelopment of the City; conducts or coordinates various studies related to land use, transportation, community, economic development, and/or environmental preservation; coordinates the preparation of plans, land use regulations, design standards, information systems and planning programs

· Takes the lead role reviewing plans for compliance with land use plans; reviews site and subdivision plans for compliance with City codes; provides considerable guidance in advising developers ensuring consistency with City land use plans; serves as City’s local permit officer; evaluates permit requests for compliance with governmental ordinances and policies; investigates violations of local codes and ordinances

· Develops, maintains, analyzes, and interprets planning related databases

· Provides research and input into the development of ordinances, policies and procedures for the City and department; drafts ordinances, amendments and plans as needed

· Provides technical and professional advice to management on various planning initiatives; delivers audio/visual presentations to supervisors, committees, boards, civic groups and the general public on planning initiatives

· Assist with preparation of grant applications to federal, state agencies and administers grants

· Serves as the municipal staff liaison with appointed Planning Commission, Board of Adjustment, and City Council; Researches and prepares planning elements necessary for decisions; manages or conducts investigations, analyzes and prepares documents and reports

· Provides data and mapping studies related to developing long-range land use plans

· Responds to citizen inquiries related to planning and zoning ordinances, policies, processes and procedures

· Performs other related duties as may be assigned, this is not a comprehensive list.

Desirable Education and Experience

Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Bachelor’s degree in urban and regional planning, public administration, or other field of study related to the work performed; Master degree preferred. At least 2-4 years professional level planning work with a municipal or county government.

Special Requirements

· Valid NC driver’s license

· AICP membership preferred

· Employee to successfully complete the NIMS course work applicable to the position within one year preferred

· Certificates in Planning/Zoning/Permitting/Flood preferred

The City of Mount Airy offers a competitive benefits package including 100% employer-paid medical, dental, vision, and life insurance for the employee. Optional supplemental insurance, tuition assistance, paid holidays, and state retirement is also available.

Applications may be picked up at City Hall, Human Resources Department, 300 South Main Street, Mount Airy, NC or through our website at https://www.mountairy.org/172/Human-Resources. Applicants must complete the City’s application. 

The City of Mount Airy is an Equal Opportunity Employer.