Planning and Zoning Director
About the role
The City of Dahlonega seeks a highly qualified professional to serve as its Planning and Zoning Director. This role drives operational excellence and innovation in a historic city, ensuring the continued well-being and sustainable growth of the Dahlonega community.
Responsibilities
- Administer and manage city planning, zoning, land development activities, comprehensive planning, land use, and permitting processes.
- Work with the City’s Planning Commission and Historic Preservation Commission to prepare recommendations for actions requiring their approval.
- Assist with the city’s long-range planning and development goals.
- Supervise one full-time professional position and a part-time administrative role.
Qualifications
- A bachelor’s or higher degree in city, urban or regional planning, public administration, economic development, or a related field.
- Five years of prior planning and zoning experience.
- American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) certification or the ability to obtain it.
Background and Qualifications
Knowledge and a level of competency commonly associated with the completion of a bachelor’s or higher degree in city, urban or regional planning, public administration, economic development, or related field. Five years prior planning and zoning experience is required. Or any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience which provides the requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities for this position. Must possess and maintain a valid Georgia driver’s license or the ability to obtain one by date of employment. American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) certification or the ability to obtain AICP certification is preferred.
Compensation and Benefits
The expected starting salary range for this position is $90,000 - $112,000 depending on experience and qualifications.
Contact Information
To apply, please email the following items to Jeff Hale, Senior Associate, Mercer Group Associates, at jeffhale@localgovhrs.com by 6:00 PM EDT, Thursday, August 13, 2026:
- Cover letter
- Resume
- List of five job-related references with email and phone contact information