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SW
South Whitehall Township
Deputy Director of Development
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What they do
A Director of Urban / Transportation Planning directs and oversees planning and develops projects that maintain or improve the quality of life in a city or region. Addresses specific transportation, economic development, housing and environmental issues. Directs planning to address aesthetic and technical concerns, community goals and the future impact of development.
$128,605 / year median in Pennsylvania
Job Description
Section I:
Summary of thePosition :
The Deputy Director of Development is a professional position responsible for assisting the Director of Development in administering the Township's zoning, subdivision and land development, permitting, and public meeting processes. The position performs advanced professional work involving coordination of development applications, ordinance administration, zoning and planning initiatives, permitting, and interdepartmental project management. The Deputy Director may act on behalf of the Director when assigned or in the Director's absence. Sound judgment, professionalism, political awareness, excellent customer service, and the ability to build trust with elected officials, residents, and the development community are critically important characteristics of the Deputy Director of Development. It is expected the Deputy Director of Development will achieve the designation of Alternate Zoning Officer and the certification of Building Code Official within six months of employment. The position reports primarily to the Director of Development and receives assignments from the Director of Township Operations and the Township Manager as assigned. This position is classified as a Salaried position and Exempt from overtime pay in accordance with the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA).Section II:
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
The position may serve as a primary point of contact for residents, developers, engineers, attorneys, contractors, and public agencies; coordinates application processing and project tracking; ensures statutory deadlines are met; manages projects; and helps ensure the efficient administration of land development, zoning, and permitting activities. Land Development- Assist in administering the Township's Subdivision and Land Development Ordinance (SALDO) and applicable provisions of the Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning Code.
- Coordinate and assist with technical review of development applications with Township departments, consultants, utilities, county agencies, and outside regulatory agencies.
- Assist with management of assigned subdivision, land development, conditional use, and related applications from pre-application meetings through final approvals.
- Help prepare written staff reports, recommendations, resolutions, ordinances, and correspondence for the Planning Commission, Board of Commissioners, and other boards or committees.
- Meet with developers, engineers, architects, attorneys, residents, and business owners to explain Township requirements and facilitate development projects.
- Serve as Acting Director of Development during the Director's absence. Zoning & Permitting
- Assist with administration of the Township's Zoning Ordinance, interpretation of ordinances, enforcement coordination, and code-related research.
- Assist with and complete the review of residential and non-residential permit applications.
- Research, draft, and recommend amendments to development regulations and planning documents to improve zoning and permitting compliance.
- Develop and maintain productive relationships with elected officials, residents, developers, consultants, and governmental agencies.
- Prepare presentations and communicate technical information clearly during public meetings.
- Perform administrative and supervisory duties as assigned.
- Serve as Alternate Zoning Officer during the Director's or the Zoning Officer's absence or as assigned. Boards and Commissions
- Assist with preparing Planning Commission packets.
- Assist with preparing Zoning Hearing Board packets.
- Coordinate Board of Commissioners mailings and agenda materials.
- Coordinate required legal advertisements and public notices.
- Attend Planning Commission meetings and Zoning Hearing Board meetings and hearings. Department Support
- Serve as backup to Permit Clerks & Coordinators.
- Perform other related duties as assigned.
Section III:
Knowledge/Qualifications:
Qualifications are representative of the knowledge, skills and/or abilities required for the position.- Comprehensive knowledge of municipal planning, zoning, land development, and local government administration.
- Working knowledge of the Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning Code, Sunshine Act, Right-to-Know Law, and related statutes.
- Ability to interpret Township ordinances, policies, and administrative procedures.
- Ability to analyze complex development proposals and recommend practical solutions.
- Excellent written, verbal, presentation, and interpersonal communication skills.
- Ability to independently manage multiple projects and deadlines.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office; GIS and permitting software experience desirable.
- Ability to maintain confidential information.
Section IV:
Education and Experience:
- Bachelor's degree in Planning, Public Administration, Urban Studies, Geography, Civil Engineering, or related field.
- A minimum of three (3) to five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in municipal planning, zoning, community development, or related public-sector work.
- Experience presenting before municipal boards and elected officials.
- Valid Pennsylvania driver's license.