Planning Director

 The City of Hickory is seeking an experienced and visionary Planning Director to lead the City’s Planning Department. Under direction from the City Manager’s Office, this position organizes, manages, and oversees all municipal planning functions, including current and long-range planning initiatives. The Planning Director ensures professional, high-quality planning practices that support the City’s goals for safety, welfare, economic development, and exceptional quality of life for residents, businesses, and visitors.

PLEASE NOTE: Applicants must meet the city criteria for an acceptable driving record.

Salary Depends on QualificationsManage all plan review activities including comprehensive planning, land use, development review, annexations, historic preservation, economic development, murals, and transportation. 

Extensive knowledge of laws, regulations, principles, and techniques related to land use, transportation planning, commercial and neighborhood development, along with economic development. 

Skill in directing municipal planning, zoning operations, and staff.  

Ability to read and interpret plans, maps, aerial photographs, and experience with GIS. 

Strong public relations skills, including leadership in publicly attended meetings and managing differing interests. 

Excellent written and verbal communication skills. 

Ability to make professional judgments in applying federal, state, and local laws, ordinances, codes, and guidelines. 

Ability to supervise staff effectively and foster strong individual and team performance. 

Ability to manage workflows and operations within established budgetary parameters. 

Education & Experience Requirements:

Bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution in urban planning, geography, public administration, or a related field (master's degree preferred). 

Seven (7) years of comprehensive experience in a local government planning department. 

Five (5) years of supervisory experience in local government or a closely related work environment preferred. 

American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) certification, or ability to obtain certification within 18 months.Work is assigned by the Assistant City Manager and reviewed through meetings, reports, and evaluation of departmental objectives. 

Duties include varied technical and administrative tasks requiring strong time management skills. 

Contacts include co-workers, contractors, civic groups, board and commission members, business leaders, developers, property owners, architects, engineers, and the general public. 

Work is typically performed in an office environment with standard equipment; may involve intermittent standing, stooping, or light lifting. 

Position provides direct supervision of the Planning Department.