Director of Planning & Zoning

About the role

The Director of Planning & Zoning serves as the Town’s principal planning professional and provides leadership for community development, land use administration, zoning enforcement, development review, and long-range planning initiatives. Reporting directly to the Town Manager, the Director works closely with elected officials, developers, residents, regional partners, advisory boards, and stakeholders to guide development in a manner consistent with the Town’s Comprehensive Plan and community vision.

The Director will promote land use planning and natural resource management for the Town and implement related programs and regulations. The Director will also serve as staff liaison and prepare meeting agenda materials for the Planning Commission, Historic District Review Board, Harbor Area Review Board, Wetlands and Coastal Dune Board, and Board of Zoning Appeals. The Director will be responsible for responding to public requests regarding land use management, natural resources, flood hazards, and zoning ordinance enforcement.

The Town of Cape Charles is committed to professional management, collaborative leadership, and continuous improvement. The Director will become part of an experienced leadership team that emphasizes integrity, accountability, teamwork, innovation, and exceptional customer service. This role offers an exceptional opportunity for a planning professional to make a lasting impact on a community that values both its historic heritage and its future.

Responsibilities

• Lead and supervise the Planning & Zoning Department, including preparing the departmental budget.
• Provide guidance and oversight for community development, land use administration, zoning enforcement, and development review.
• Serve as staff liaison and prepare meeting agenda materials for multiple advisory boards and commissions.
• Respond to public inquiries regarding land use management, natural resources, flood hazards, and zoning ordinance enforcement.
• Collaborate with elected officials, developers, residents, and regional partners to align development with the Town’s Comprehensive Plan.
• Advance a culture of organizational excellence while supporting sustainable growth and preserving the unique character of Cape Charles.

Qualifications

The following education and experience factors outline the qualifications for successful performance:

• Minimum of five (5) years of professional municipal planning experience, with demonstrated leadership in an organization of comparable size/scope.
• An undergraduate degree, preferably in Urban Planning, Public Administration, Public Policy, or a related field. A Master’s degree in Urban Planning or a related discipline is strongly preferred but not required.
• Experience leading teams in a supervisory or director role is desired.
• Strong knowledge of Virginia planning and zoning laws and processes.
• Certifications such as Certified Zoning Administrator (CZA), Certified Zoning Official (CZO), American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP), or Certified Floodplain Manager (CFM) are preferred. Candidates without certifications must be willing to pursue them.
• Any combination of education and experience that qualifies an applicant may be considered in lieu of the criteria listed above.

Benefits

• Participation in the Virginia Retirement System (VRS).
• Health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Paid time off (PTO) and paid holiday leave.
• Professional development and training opportunities.
• Life insurance.
• Relocation assistance may be available.

Pay

Compensation for the Director of Planning & Zoning is within the hiring range of $76,700 - $92,000 annually, dependent upon qualifications and experience.