Planning & Development Services Assistant Director

HIRING RANGE FOR THIS POSITION IS MINIMUM TO MIDPOINT.

POSITION OVERVIEW:  The Planning and Development Services (PDS) Assistant Director is a top management-level position within the PDS department, responsible for assisting the Director in planning, directing, managing, and overseeing the activities and operations of the department. The Assistant Director will manage the day-to-day operations of PDS, including overseeing key programs such as economic incentives, long range planning, impact/mobility/multi-modal fee collection, current planning and redevelopment activities. This role also involves preparing and tracking the department’s budget, managing staff, and acting as the Director in their absence. The Assistant Director is a strategic leader committed to fostering a culture of professionalism, collaboration, and accountability within the department.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Department Leadership and Supervision:
•Assist the Director in the administration and supervision of the Planning and Development Services Department.
•Act on behalf of the Director in their absence, representing the department in internal and external matters.
•Respond to personnel issues, providing leadership and support to staff across all divisions.
•Promote and nurture a collaborative and professional workplace culture based on mutual respect, accountability, and teamwork.

Program Management and Oversight:
•Oversee key department programs, including the Building and Code Regulation, Long Range and Current Development Planning, GIS, Impact/Mobility/Multi-Modal Fee Program, and Economic Development Incentive Program.
•Assist in processing Economic Development Incentive requests, ensuring accurate record-keeping and reporting.
•Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal regulations related to planning, building, code enforcement, and economic development.

Strategic Planning and Process Improvement:
•Actively participate in the development of departmental priorities, objectives, and goals, seeking new technologies and processes to enhance departmental efficiency.
•Lead policy discussions and exercise sound judgment in decision-making.
•Assist the Director with strategic planning, performance management, and setting departmental metrics.
•Track and provide monthly reports on department activities and performance.

Budget and Fiscal Management:
•Assist in the preparation and management of the department’s budget, ensuring resource allocation aligns with department priorities.
•Review and assess financial aspects of the department's projects, making recommendations for improvements and adjustments as needed.

Public Relations and Intergovernmental Affairs:
•Serve as a county representative in interactions with the public, elected and appointed officials, developers, contractors, and other county employees.
•Effectively represent the department to officials, the public, and in all other matters requiring expertise and technical knowledge related to department policy and procedure. 
•Review agendas and docket items related to the Planning and Development Services department for relevant boards and commissions.

Training and Mentorship:
•Mentor and train employees in various aspects of administrative, technical, and leadership responsibilities.
•Provide guidance on best practices in customer service, technical expertise, and management.

COMPETENCIES:  The following competencies are key to success in this role, enabling effective contribution, collaboration, and adaptability in a dynamic work environment. 

•Leadership and Team Management: Ability to effectively lead, mentor, and manage diverse teams while fostering a collaborative and accountable work environment.
•Strategic Thinking and Problem Solving: Strong ability to develop and implement strategic goals, drive innovation, and resolve complex issues with sound judgment.
•Program and Project Management: Expertise in overseeing multiple programs, managing resources, and ensuring compliance with relevant regulations.
•Communication and Public Relations: Exceptional communication skills for presenting complex issues to diverse audiences and maintaining professional relationships with stakeholders.
•Financial and Budget Management: Proficiency in budget preparation, financial analysis, and resource allocation to align with departmental priorities.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: The position requires the ability to sit, stand, and walk for extended periods. It involves frequent use of hands and fingers for typing, writing, and operating office equipment. Occasional lifting of objects up to 25 pounds may be necessary. The role also requires the ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing and may involve attending evening and weekend meetings as required. Prolonged computer use may pose a risk for eye strain or repetitive motion injuries.

ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS AND WORK HAZARDS: The work environment is primarily office-based, with occasional field visits to various sites. Employees may be exposed to typical office conditions, including computers, printers, and office equipment. During site visits or meetings, there may be occasional exposure to outdoor environments. The role may involve stress due to project deadlines, public interactions, and complex problem-solving. Prolonged computer use can also lead to eye strain and repetitive motion injuries.

SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION: 
This job description is not intended to be and should not be construed as an all-inclusive list of all the responsibilities, skills or working conditions associated with the position.  While it is intended to accurately reflect the position activities and requirements, Management reserves the right to modify, add or remove duties and assign other duties as necessary that are a logical assignment to the position.

EMERGENCY RESPONSE/RECOVERY ACTIVITIES: 
County employees are considered essential personnel in providing and continuing services to our community during and following a disaster, such as a hurricane, or in other emergency situations. As a requirement of County employment, County employees are subject to being required to remain at work during an event, respond to a recall immediately following an event and/or immediately reporting to work when an all clear is declared by the County Administrator.  During these types of events, County employees may temporarily be assigned to work and perform duties outside the normal scope of their position, location, and work schedule to fit the needs of the County and its citizens. 

ADA STATEMENT: 
A qualified employee or applicant with a disability may be afforded a reasonable accommodation to perform the essential job functions of a position in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act.

EEO STATEMENT:
St. Lucie County BOCC is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected characteristic. We encourage all qualified candidates to apply.

QUALIFICATIONS:  Candidates should possess a solid foundational background that demonstrates their ability to engage with the responsibilities of the role effectively.

•Bachelor's degree in Urban and Regional Planning or a related field required, Master's degree preferred.
•Relevant certifications such as AICP certification preferred.
•A minimum of 7 years of progressively responsible experience in local government, public administration, planning, or a related field, with at least 5 years in a supervisory role.
•Experience with Comprehensive Planning, Impact/Mobility/Multi-Modal Fee Collection and concurrency management practices, and economic development incentive programs.
•Experience with Euclidian and form-based codes, historic preservation, and general knowledge of the Florida Building Code.
•Strong knowledge of local, state, and federal regulations related to planning, building, code enforcement, GIS, and economic development.
•Proficiency in GIS, presentation, project tracking, and plan review software, and advanced skills in Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, PowerPoint, Excel) with the ability to quickly learn new software applications as needed.
•Ability to handle sensitive political, social, and fiscal issues with discretion and professionalism.
•Valid Florida driver’s license and must maintain good driving record. 

Pay Grade:  G212

Driving Position – Operating County vehicles and/or equipment is a primary function of this position.

PRE-EMPLOYMENT SCREENING: This position requires a physical, drug testing, driver's license verification and level 1 background screening.

Salary : $107,672 - $134,589