DeKalb County is seeking an experienced and innovative Deputy Director of Planning & Sustainability to oversee critical operations within the Development Division. This position offers a significant opportunity for career growth and development.

The Development Services Division consists of four sections: Permits and Plans Review, Inspections (Structural and Trades), Land Development and Environmental Compliance, and Business/Alcohol Licensing. These sections are responsible for the following:

Reviewing land development plans and issuing permits Conducting inspections related to structural integrity and trades Reviewing tree ordinances and sediment and erosion control plans, along with performing inspections Issuing various permits including building, plumbing, mechanical (HVAC), electrical, sign, sewer tap, and home occupation permits Issuing certificates of occupancy or completeness Zoning approval of business license applications Issuing new business and alcohol licenses, along with renewing existing licenses and collecting excise taxes

The ideal candidate will possess sound professional judgment, exceptional communication skills, technological proficiency, and the ability to foster a positive and productive workplace environment.

Salary Range: $140,000+  Job Code: 51005  Salary Grade: 28  FLSA: Exempt

Essential Functions:

The following duties are normal for this position. The omission of specific statements of the duties does not exclude them from the classification if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment for this classification. Other duties may be required and assigned.

Manages, directs, and evaluates assigned staff, processing employee concerns and problems, directing work, counseling, disciplining, and completing employee performance appraisals.

Organizes, prioritizes, and assigns work regarding business development and retention; prioritizes and schedules work activities in order to meet objectives; ensures that subordinates have the proper resources needed to complete the assigned work; monitors status of work in progress and inspects completed work; consults with assigned staff to assist with complex/problem situations and provide technical expertise; and provides progress and activity reports to County administrators and elected officials.

Ensures departmental compliance with all applicable codes, laws, rules, regulations, standards, policies and procedures; ensures adherence to established procedures; and initiates any actions necessary to correct deviations or violations.

Develops and implements long- and short-term plans, goals, and objectives for area of assignment; collects and analyzes multiple sources of data; evaluates effectiveness and efficiency of department activities; reviews and revises policies, procedures, plans and programs; and researches, assesses, and develops strategies to meet current and future business development and retention needs.

Develops, implements and monitors policies, procedures, and protocols for area of assignment; interprets, explains and implements local, state, and federal laws and regulations; conducts staff meetings; and provides information, updates, and coordination of work activities.

Develops and implements budget for assigned area; recommends staffing levels, equipment, materials and other budget allocations; monitors expenditures to ensure compliance with approved budget; and prepares and submits budget documentation and reports.

Represents the Development Services Department to other County departments, elected officials, outside agencies, and the residential and commercial community; coordinates assigned activities; resolves land development issues; provides guidance and direction and interpretation of County requirements, processes, and initiatives; and negotiates and resolves sensitive and controversial development issues.

Minimum Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree in Urban and Regional Planning or a related field required (Master's degree preferred); eight years of experience in planning, zoning, and development service, with three years of management experience for a comparably sized organization or as a deputy director for a smaller organization; or any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience which provides the requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities for this job.

Specific License or Certification Required:  Must possess and maintain a valid Georgia driver’s license.  AICP certification is preferred depending on area of assignment.