Planning Director
Planning Directors are responsible for managing the development and implementation of land use plans and policies for cities, towns, and counties. They work with a variety of stakeholders, including government officials, developers, and community members, to ensure that land use decisions are made in a way that supports the community's goals and values.
Job Duties
Planning Directors typically have the following job duties:
- Develop and implement comprehensive land use plans
- Review and approve development proposals
- Conduct community outreach and engagement activities
- Prepare and present reports on land use issues
- Work with other government agencies on land use matters
Education and Experience
Planning Directors typically need a master's degree in planning or a related field, such as urban planning, public administration, or environmental science. They also typically need several years of experience in land use planning or a related field. Some Planning Directors may also have a law degree.
Skills
Planning Directors need strong skills in the following areas:
- Land use planning
- Development review
- Community outreach and engagement
- Report writing and presentation
- Intergovernmental relations
Career Prospects
Planning Directors can advance to more senior positions, such as City Manager or County Administrator. They can also move into other fields, such as real estate development or environmental consulting.
Transferable Skills
The skills that Planning Directors develop can be transferred to other careers, such as: