Assistant Director - Planning

Position Description

Position Overview:

The Assistant Director for Planning will play a pivotal role in overseeing the county’s urban planning and development initiatives. This leadership position supports the Director of Planning in managing the planning functions, policy development, and regulatory oversight related to urban growth, land use, transportation, and sustainability. The Assistant Director will work closely with internal departments, elected officials, community stakeholders, and developers to ensure that planning goals align with the county’s growth strategies and vision.

Job Duties

• Assist in the development, implementation, and update of the county comprehensive land use plans, zoning regulations.
• Creates Master plans to promote sustainable development and community enhancement.
• Oversee and manage planning projects, including land use studies, transportation planning, environmental impact assessments, and infrastructure development to ensure compliance with regulations, timelines, and budgetary constraints.
• Supervise planning staff, providing guidance, mentorship, and professional development opportunities. Ensure high performance and alignment with department goals.
• Coordinate with internal departments, such as Public Works, Economic Development, and Housing, to integrate planning initiatives into broader county projects.
• Serve as a liaison between the planning department, elected officials, and external stakeholders, including developers, consultants, and the public.
• Review proposed development projects to ensure compliance with zoning laws, building codes, and environmental regulations.
• Provide recommendations to the Director of Planning and planning commission on significant land use and development issues.
• Lead community outreach efforts, including public meetings, workshops, and consultations, to engage citizens in the planning process and solicit feedback on proposed plans and developments.
• Analyze demographic, economic, and geographic data to inform planning decisions.
• Prepare and present reports, presentations, and recommendations to elected officials, boards, and community organizations.
• Assist in securing funding for planning initiatives through grants and other sources.
• Oversee the planning department’s budget and ensure resources are allocated effectively.
  
  

Harris County is an Equal Opportunity Employer

https://hrrm.harriscountytx.gov/Pages/EqualEmploymentOpportunityPlan.aspx

If you need special services or accommodations, please call (713) 274-5445 or email ADACoordinator@bmd.hctx.net

This position is subject to a criminal history check. Only relevant convictions will be considered and, even when considered, may not automatically disqualify the candidate.

Requirements

Education: A bachelor’s degree in urban planning, Regional Planning, Architecture, Public Administration, or a related field.

Experience

• A minimum of 8 years of professional experience in urban planning or related fields.
• At least 3 years in a leadership or managerial role within a municipal or county planning department.
  
  

Knowledge, Skill & Abilities (KSAs)

• Strong understanding of urban planning principles, zoning codes, land use regulations, and environmental impact assessments.
• Knowledge of local government operations, policies, and procedures.
• Proficiency in planning software (e.g., GIS, AutoCAD, or other relevant tools).
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, including experience presenting to stakeholders and elected officials.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and prioritize competing deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
  
  

NOTE: Qualifying education, experience, knowledge, and skills must be documented on your job application. You may attach a resume to the application as supporting documentation but ONLY information stated on the application will be used for consideration. "See Resume" will not be accepted for qualifications .

General Information

Position Type, And Typical Hours Of Work

• Full-Time | Regular | 40 hours per week.
• Hybrid schedule: Three days in the office and two days working from home.
• Subject to early mornings, late evenings, weekends, and holidays at times, depending upon the project or workload.
  
  

Salary

• Commensurate with experience, based on 26 pay periods.
  
  

Physical Demands And Environmental Exposure

• Most assignments will be performed in an office, meeting, or operations command center environment, but some field work may be required. May be required to work extended work hours during activation of disaster recovery operations for an unspecified length of time (varies based on the extent of the event).
• This position requires bending, stooping, and lifting to 25 lbs., frequent walking, standing, sitting, reaching, and ascending/descending stairs.
• The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to perform the essential functions of this job successfully.
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  
  

Featured Benefits

• Medical, vision, and dental insurance.
• Wellness.
• Professional development opportunity.
• Flexible spending account.
• 457 deferred compensation plans.
• Retirement pension (TCDRS).
• Transportation assistance (Metro Ride Sponsor Program).
• Disability and life insurance.
• Harris County is a Qualified Employer for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF).
  
  

Employment may be contingent on passing a drug screen and meeting other standards.

Due to a high volume of applications positions may close prior to the advertised closing date or at the discretion of the Hiring Department.