Current Planning Division Manager

Whatcom County Planning and Development Services (PDS) is seeking a forward-thinking, dynamic leader for the position of Current Planning and Code Enforcement Division Manager. This individual will address complex development and natural resource management challenges, identifying innovative solutions. The manager will oversee the current planning and land use application review process while ensuring compliance with local, state and federal regulations, including the Growth Management Act (GMA), Shoreline Management Act (SMA), and State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA).

The successful candidate must demonstrate exceptional project management and communication skills, with advanced knowledge of land use development planning and regulatory compliance. In addition, they must be adept at interacting with diverse groups of residents, customers, and stakeholders in a transparent, diplomatic, and consistent manner. Comfort with engaging and communicating with key stakeholders, being accessible and approachable, is essential, especially in an environment that often involves competing interests. The ideal candidate will be solution-driven, possess emotional intelligence, and have proven conflict resolution skills.

Management of the Current Planning and Code Enforcement Division to include:

• Ensuring the timely, accurate, and complete dissemination of information related to current planning land use permit application reviews, work products, and programs.
• Oversight of the Code Enforcement staff providing guidance and direction for the public as they seek compliance with development, natural resource and building regulations.
• Implementing decisions resulting from hearings, appeals, and actions taken by the County Council.
• Providing policy and technical guidance to staff, departments, commissions, elected officials, and the public to ensure adherence to statutory requirements and development regulations.
• Supervising, training, and mentoring staff in the implementation of policies, procedures, and new or updated regulations.
• Addressing concerns and issues, determining appropriate resolutions, and fostering positive internal and external customer relations.
• Establishing procedures and recommending administrative policies to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the land use review process, ensuring productive communication regarding approvals and reports, and providing accurate information to customers and the public.

For more information please review the following:

• Division Manager Job Description
• Division Manager Current Planning Supplemental Job Description

• Bachelor’s degree in Planning or field related to Natural Resources. Master’s degree is preferred. 
• Five years of progressively responsible related experience including two years of supervisory or lead experience.
• Requires educational specialization in the area of urban planning; land use; public administration or a closely related field.
• American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) certification preferred. 

Requires knowledge of:

• Land use planning and natural resource statutes in the Washington Administrative Code and Revised Code of Washington, including the Growth Management Act, Shoreline Management Act, State Environmental Policy Act, and forest practices.
• County land use and natural resource regulations.
• The impact of current state legislation on local planning and permitting  issues and a thorough, detailed knowledge of Washington’s growth management laws and/or similar environmental or planning management laws and legislative impacts in other states.

The ideal candidate:

SALARY:

Unrepresented Range 11:  $7,876 - $11,437 per month. Hiring rate depends on qualifications.  

This position receives annual pay increases to the next step in the associated salary range (apx. 3.8%) subject to satisfactory performance, in addition to any approved Cost of Living Adjustments (COLA). 

DEPARTMENT OVERVIEW:
The mission of the Planning and Development Services Department (PDS) is to ensure growth and development occurs in a manner that protects public health and safety, preserves the natural environment and ensures a high quality of life. Whatcom County PDS currently has 51 FTE’s and is divided into four major divisions including Current Planning/Code Enforcement, Natural Resources, Building Services and Long-Range Planning.  Our goal is to provide excellent customer service and planning solutions that work for our community. The Current Planning Division Manager will be part of a dedicated management team providing leadership and guidance on a wide variety of land use and natural resource management issues.  

For more information about he Planning and Development Services Department, please see their website. 

Distinguish yourself in public service and make a commitment to our future. 

 Whatcom County, WA is truly special and a great place to call home!

Salary : $7,876 - $11,437