The Town of Ayden is currently recruiting for a Planning and Economic Development Director. This position is tasked with leading and managing the Planning functions as well as the Economic Development functions for the Town of Ayden. Performing difficult administrative work tied to general planning, zoning, subdivisions, stormwater and economic development, as well as any special project assigned by the Town Manager.

An employee in this class directs the planning and zoning activities in the Town to ensure coordinated guidance and regulation of growth and development. Work involves a variety of professional planning activities including comprehensive plan review of development and land use applications; zoning, site plan and environmental review; enforcement of zoning and related codes; providing professional support to Town Boards and Committees; providing technical assistance and administrative guidance to Town staff and the public; providing guidance for the orderly long-range growth, appropriate land use, and current development of the Town; maintaining and updating planning documents; and supervising staff involved in code enforcement. Performs complex economic development related functions tied to job creation, attraction of commercial, industrial, and residential projects, while studying and analyzing industry and market trends for long term development. This position also develops strategic plans and programs for economic and financial growth of the Town.

Extensive independent judgment and initiative are required in conducting research projects, compiling reports. making presentations and making recommendations for various programs and functions of the Town. Work requires skill in facilitating public and intergovernmental processes. Work is performed under the general administrative direction of the Town Manager and is evaluated through conferences, review of work, results obtained, and management of, and administrative adherence to, the Town’s plans, programs, and ordinances. 

Essential Duties 

Performs comprehensive plan review of development and land use applications; reviews site plans against zoning and environmental ordinances; completes technical assessments; conducts site inspections; prepares written project analysis and makes recommendations; interprets and explains applicable rules.

Responsible for economic development by providing guidance to individuals and companies in establishing, relocating or expanding their businesses within Ayden.

Assists the public, developers, engineers, contractors, and others with information, processes, technical guidance, and other customer service needs in the development review process.

Serves as Zoning Administrator; oversees rezonings and the development process to ensure zoning and code compliance; prepares zoning verification letters; oversees zoning compliance and warning citation letters.

Serves as Stormwater Administrator, oversees the Town’s Stormwater Management Program and coordinates with the Town Engineer to maintain compliance.

Serves as Main Street Director and oversees the Town’s Main Street Program in coordination with Downtown Ayden and the staff of the NC Main Street & Rural Planning Center.

Compensation

Salary Range: $81,265-$114,544
Hiring Range: Based on qualifications

Qualifications

Considerable knowledge of the principles and practices of community and public sector planning. Considerable knowledge of local zoning, land use ordinances, and codes; policies and procedures related to land use planning, zoning, subdivision ordinances, and economic development. Considerable knowledge of federal and state grant opportunities and regulations. Considerable skill in the collection, analysis, and presentation of technical data and planning recommendations and in working with others in a joint cooperative manner. Considerable knowledge of supervisory techniques and practices, leadership, motivations, communications, team building, performance coaching and evaluation. Working knowledge of GIS systems including application of software, hardware and peripherals to planning needs. Working knowledge of municipal budgeting, purchasing and personnel policies and procedures. Skill in building consensus, meeting facilitation, public speaking, collaborative problem-solving, and customer service excellence. Ability to analyze complex planning problems and to determine the data needed for making decisions on such problems. Ability to enforce codes with firmness and tact. Ability to prepare and present oral and written reports and studies effectively. Ability to effectively supervise and evaluate the work of others. Ability to express ideas effectively in oral and written forms. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with community groups, federal, state, regional, and city officials, staff, and the general public. 

Education, experience, and requirements

Graduation from an accredited college or university with a bachelor’s degree in planning, public administration or related field and considerable professional experience in public sector planning and/or economic development; or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Possession of a valid North Carolina driver’s license. CZO and AICP Preferred.

To apply or for more information, please visit the City’s Employment Opportunities website:
https://www.ayden.com/departments/human-resources/