JOB DESCRIPTION TOWN PLANNER, TOWN OF PENDLETON, SC

Shape what's next for a growing Southern community. As Pendleton's next Senior Town Planner, you'll be the Town's planning expert—leading development review, guiding long-range growth, and partnering with boards, developers, and residents to enhance quality of life. You'll report to the Town Administrator and have an opportunity to supervise planning and code enforcement staff while delivering visible results for the community. In this role, you'll be able to: Lead with impact . You'll direct day-to-day planning and development review functions and advise Town leadership on policies that shape Pendleton for years to come. Be the expert. Serve as the Town's professional authority on zoning, land use, subdivision standards, and design—translating complex issues into clear, defensible recommendations. Collaborate across the table. Work directly with elected and appointed boards, developers, partner agencies, and residents to get good projects done right. Mentor and manage. Provide leadership to planning and regulatory staff and help elevate service standards Town-wide.

Reports to:

Town Administrator.

Supervises:

planning, code enforcement, and related regulatory staff as assigned. To view the full position profile, please visit: Pendleton Town Planner

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Provide professional planning advice and technical expertise to Town leadership, staff, boards, developers, and the public.

Direct and administer development review:

zoning administration, subdivision and site plan review, and land use regulation. Review and interpret architectural, engineering, planning, and landscape architecture plans for compliance with ordinances, design standards, and regulations. Evaluate development proposals for consistency with the Comprehensive Plan, zoning and subdivision codes, and applicable state/federal requirements. Manage land use applications (rezonings, special uses, site plans), prepare staff reports, and present recommendations to boards and Town Council. Lead periodic updates to the Comprehensive Plan and development regulations; analyze growth trends and advise on impacts. Coordinate multi-department and interagency project reviews to secure timely approvals. Research, draft, and review ordinances, policies, and development standards. Provide staff support to the Planning Commission, Zoning Board of Appeals, Design Review Board, and other committees. Support code enforcement activities as needed and perform related duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS FOR CONSIDERATION

Education & Experience Bachelor's in urban/regional/environmental/community planning, landscape architecture, architecture, civil engineering, or related field is required for consideration; Master's preferred. Five (5) or more years of progressively responsible municipal planning, land development, or community development experience (including regulatory review & project management) or an equivalent combination of education and experience. American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) certification is highly preferred. Skills & Competencies Expert ability to read and evaluate architectural, engineering, planning, and landscape plans and technical documents. Deep knowledge of municipal planning, zoning, subdivision, and land use regulation; strong grasp of state and local laws. Clear, persuasive communicator—skilled at writing professional staff reports and presenting complex information to officials and the public. Relationship-builder who collaborates effectively with boards, staff, developers, consultants, and residents. Organized project manager adept at juggling multiple deadlines. Tech - savvy with office productivity tools and GIS experience preferred. Grant writing/funding experience a plus. Professionalism, integrity, sound judgment, and accountability in all facets of the work.

QUALIFICATIONS

The salary range at the time of hire is expected to be between $72,000 - $85,000. The salary offered will be commensurate with experience. The Town offers comprehensive benefits to complement the salary provided to staff.

TO APPLY

The application period will remain open until the position is filled. Applications will be reviewed on an ongoing basis by the FGP team. Candidates must meet the qualifications listed above in order to be considered. Questions about the role may be directed to Christin Mack, Practice Lead, Public Sector, Nonprofit, and Community Impact Executive Search, at cmack@fgp.com.