Planning and Zoning Administrator

JOB SUMMARY:

Under administrative direction of the Planning Director, the Planning and Zoning Administrator plans, coordinates, and oversees Hall County’s current and long‑range planning functions, land use management, zoning application review, subdivision and land development plan review, and Geographical Information System (GIS) activities.

The Administrator supervises Planning and GIS staff, supports technical and policy operations, and serves as a principal advisor to the Director and the Planning Commission on development-related issues. The role provides leadership for zoning, development review, and long‑range planning initiatives to ensure compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and ordinances, and to support development consistent with community expectations and high quality‑of‑life standards.

MAJOR JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:

Supervises, directs, and evaluates planners, planning technicians, and support staff. Coordinates, assigns, and reviews work; maintains standards; monitors status of work in progress; inspects completed work assignments; answers questions; gives advice and direction as needed.

Oversees review of applications for site plans, subdivision plans, variances, conditional use applications, Business License verifications, building permits, and other processes of the Department.

Responds to public inquiries for information and complaints; instructs individuals and groups on the nature and requirements of the various Hall County development codes.

Develops standard operating procedures, requirements, and instructions to the Planning and Development Director that are required to achieve acceptable zoning and development review practices.

Assist with drafting ordinances for land development code updates, resolutions, and other documents for legal and administrative review.

Develop and implement short and long range goals and objectives for the Division staff. 

Represent the Department as needed while working with other departments, agencies, community groups, and stakeholders.

Writes zoning verification letter and provides interpretations for zoning and land development standards.

Determines compliance with the provisions of the Zoning Ordinance and completeness of planning applications. Notifies applicant if the proposed use is not in compliance with ordinance standards and assists with an appropriate alternative procedure, appeals, or any other administrative remedies necessary to attain compliance. 

Develops recommendations regarding zoning amendments, zoning forms, and prepares resulting text amendments. 

Meets with citizens and applicants to review and discuss county-adopted zoning and land development standards. 

Works on special projects assigned by the Planning Director.

Performs related work as assigned.

Regular and predictable attendance is required.

Performs other related duties as required.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED:

Education and Experience:

Bachelor’s degree in public administration, Geography, Planning, or related field, with at least two years of experience in municipal or county planning, zoning, code enforcement or other technical field of expertise.

Must possess six (6) years of progressive leadership experience.

Any equivalent combination of education and experience that provides the minimum level of qualifications stated above.

Licenses and Certifications:

Certification from the American Institute of Certified Planners, International Society of Arboriculture, or Landscape Architect license required (or achievable within one year of employment). 

Valid state of Georgia driver’s license and a satisfactory motor vehicle record (MVR)

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Knowledge of laws, ordinances, rules, and regulations related to planning, land use, permit review, building codes, and related codes and regulations including but not necessarily limited to the International Building Code.

Knowledge of the principles, practices and techniques of community development, urban planning, housing rehabilitation, construction methods and materials, code enforcement and zoning ordinances; principles and practices of strategic planning, planning laws and procedures. 

Knowledge of public policy development; emerging trends in community development services, planning, building and safety, and administration. 

Knowledge of the principles and practices of management and supervision including performance management measures, training, and discipline. 

Skilled in budget preparation and administration; project management, benchmarking, and program evaluation; and effective customer service techniques.

Skills in negotiating and administering contracts.

Ability to read, understand, and interpret land use plans, transportation plans, engineering/construction plans and municipal ordinances.

Ability to select, develop, organize, motivate, and effectively utilize staff.

Ability to plan, direct and manage a number of diverse but related activities.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with Federal, State, City and County officials, contractors, developers, employees, and the public.

Ability to communicate clearly and effectively, both orally and in writing.

ADA Minimum Qualifications:

Physical Ability: Essential functions of this position continuously require the ability to remain in a stationary position (sitting or standing); operate a computer and other office machinery, such as a calculator, copier, and printer. Incumbents must continuously be able to think analytically; handle stress and emotion, concentrate on tasks, remember names and other details; examine and observe details; make decisions, and adjust to change. Incumbents must also continuously direct others; meet deadlines; stay organized; use math/calculations and use a keyboard/type.

Essential Functions frequently require the ability to move about inside the office; and move/transport items up to 10lbs.

Essential functions occasionally require the ability to bend body downward and forward by bending spine and legs, and twisting at the waist, hips, or knees; reach overhead; push or pull; and repetitively use hands/arms/legs. Incumbents in this position are occasionally required to be on-call and work irregular hours. 

Sensory Requirements: Essential functions regularly require the ability to use effective verbal and written communication; and use of hand/eye coordination and fine manipulation to use equipment.

Environmental Factors: Essential functions of this position continuously require the ability to either work with others or work alone. 

This class specification should not be interpreted as all inclusive.  It is intended to identify the major responsibilities and requirements of this job. The incumbent may be requested to perform job-related responsibilities and tasks other than those stated in this specification.