Planning Director

Overview:

Comprised of twenty-five urban, suburban, small-town, and rural municipalities, Middlesex County is New Jersey's second most populous county and is strategically located midway between New York and Philadelphia.

The Director will be responsible for long-term growth strategies, land use regulations, and overseeing the work of planning staff.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Strategic Planning & Development:

• Land Use:

• Staff Leadership & Management:

• Community Engagement:

• Project Management & Oversight:

• Collaboration & Coordination:

• Policy Development & Analysis:

• Budget & Resource Management:

• Regulatory Compliance:

• Emergency Preparedness & Response:

Participate in planning for emergency management and disaster recovery, ensuring land use decisions are resilient and responsive to potential hazards and impacts of climate change.

Qualifications:

• Education and Experience:
• A master’s degree in planning, Public Administration, or a related field.
• A minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in urban or regional planning, with at least 3 years in a supervisory or leadership role in a local government or similar setting.
• Licenses and Certifications:
• Professional Planners License required. (ability to get certified in one year)
• AICP (American Institute of Certified Planners) certification required.
• Valid driver’s license and the ability to travel within the County as necessary.
• Skills and Abilities:
• Strong understanding of planning principles, zoning, land use laws, and environmental regulations.
• Demonstrated ability to manage a team and work collaboratively with multiple stakeholders.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to present complex ideas to diverse audiences.
• Analytical thinking and problem-solving skills with attention to detail.
• Experience in project management, including the ability to manage budgets and timelines.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to attend evening and weekend meetings as required.

Middlesex County is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by law.