Director of Planning, Zoning and Codes

This position is responsible for the administration and management of the Planning, Zoning, and Codes Department. This position is classified at Labor Grade 24 and the starting salary range is $97,745.65 - $111,166.08 based on experience and qualification.

Major Job Duties

• Directs the overall activities of the department.
• Directs the town’s planning efforts: develops long-range, comprehensive, capital improvement, and acquisition plans.
• Prepares and revises town ordinances, policies, and regulations related to planning and zoning; assists in implementing policies and prosecuting violators.
• Prepares special analyses and reports for the Town Manager and Board of Selectmen; provides technical assistance as requested.
• Prepares the department budget; monitors expenditures under the current budget.
• Maintains a current knowledge of professional, technical, and legal trends relating to planning and zoning issues.
• Hires, trains, directs, and evaluates department staff; ensures coordinated efforts of professional and administrative staff.
• Oversees the provision of technical, professional and administrative support for several public boards and commissions.
• Remains abreast of grant opportunities; directs the town's efforts in securing and administering grants.
• Assists in the application process for appointments to various boards.
• Oversees the setting of various board agendas, taking of minutes, and the provision of sufficient and relevant information to board members; assures the accurate recording and posting of board decisions.
• Oversees and conducts professional planning studies and analyses to inform public decision making.
• Oversees enforcement of the town zoning ordinance, building codes, and related regulations.
• Coordinates department activities with those of other town departments and outside agencies.
• Conducts public awareness campaigns of department efforts to enforce building codes and the zoning ordinance.
• Conducts public education programs regarding the town master plan, conservation programs, and other special projects.
• Answers questions from contractors, developers, engineers, and the general public concerning planning and zoning issues.
• Investigates complaints received from the public concerning unsafe structures and zoning and code violations.

Minimum Qualifications

• Baccalaureate degree, preferably in a course of study related to the occupational field.
• At least five years of related experience, including supervisory experience.
• Possession of or ability to readily obtain a valid driver’s license issued by the State of New Hampshire for the type of vehicle or equipment operated.

Knowledge and Skills Required

• Knowledge of planning and zoning theories, principles, and practices.
• Knowledge of engineering principles and practices.
• Knowledge of the town zoning ordinance and other town regulations and policies.
• Knowledge of the techniques and materials used in building construction.
• Knowledge of state laws, local ordinances, and construction and trades codes governing the inspection process.
• Knowledge of the geography of the town, including roads, streets, subdivisions, and zoned areas.
• Knowledge of legal terminology.
• Knowledge of town and department policies and procedures.
• Skill in management and supervision.
• Skill in directing municipal planning, zoning, code, health, rental housing, and sustainability operations.
• Skill in reading and interpreting blueprints, maps, and aerial photographs.
• Skill in budgeting.
• Skill in operating a computer and related drafting equipment.
• Skill in oral and written communication.