Director of Planning

Definition of Class

• Responsible for the administration of the Planning Department including the development of comprehensive planning for Erie County, securing various grants from State and Federal sources. Considerable independent judgment and initiative are required in designing and implementing programs. Works within the framework of Federal, State and local guidelines carrying out the policies of the County Executive regarding overall county planning.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Directs the activities of the Planning Department, prepares budgets, selects personnel, plans work programs, assigns work and schedules completion dates of assignments. Confers with and advises the County Executive and Director of Administration on broad policy matters relating to county planning both short term and long term. Trains and develops staff and advises and assists them in the more difficult aspects of their work, also trains them for future certification within their field. Represents the County of Erie on planning and zoning matters in public meetings and meetings with other governmental agencies. Makes studies of social and economic patterns. Negotiates with Federal and State agencies for grant funding. Analyzes and evaluates residential land and commercial and industrial patterns and extends technical assistance to local municipalities in zoning and subdivision matters.
• The above statements reflect the general details considered necessary to describe the principal functions of the job and shall not be considered as a detailed description of all the work requirements that may be inherent in the job.

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities

• Possesses comprehensive knowledge of the principles and practices of planning. Comprehensive knowledge of laws and regulations related to the Planning and Zoning Department. Administrative ability, high level technical competence in planning field. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with co workers, personnel of other agencies and the public; ability to plan and supervise the work of others; good judgment and initiative.

Minimum Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree in Planning or related field
• Minimum of 7 years of Professional Planning Experience in Local, County or Regional Planning
• Minimum of 5 years of Supervisory/Management Experience

Conditions Of Employment