Chief Planner & Urban Growth Leader

Town of Carrboro, NC; Carrboro (NC); On-site; USD 95,000 - 135,000; Full time

Job summary

The Town of Carrboro seeks an experienced Planning Director to lead the Planning, Zoning and Inspections Department, overseeing planning, zoning, development review, building permitting, minimum housing, and inspection programs. The director will report to the Assistant Town Manager and provide strategic leadership for long‑range and current planning, including floodplain and watershed management.

The ideal candidate will direct staff, guide policy updates, engage councils and communities, and

Qualifications

• Minimum of a Bachelor’s degree in Urban Planning, Public Administration, or a related field.
• Seven (7) years of progressively responsible experience in planning or land use.
• Four (4) years of supervisory experience, including experience in senior‑level positions, budget administration, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Responsibilities

• Direct and oversee the Planning Department, including staff, programs, budgets, work plans, and consultant contracts.
• Administer and enforce planning, zoning, subdivision, watershed, floodplain, transportation, and related regulations; oversee development review and long‑range planning initiatives.
• Lead updates to the Land Use Ordinance and other planning regulations and provide guidance on planning and zoning matters.
• Prepare reports and recommendations for Town Council and advisory boards; facilitate community engagement and represent the Town at local and regional meetings.
• Serve as the Town’s Floodplain Manager and Watershed Administrator and ensure compliance with applicable local, State, and federal requirements.
• Lead major planning initiatives, including the preparation of a new Unified Development Ordinance, Safe Routes to Schools Plan Update, NC54 Corridor Plan, Downtown Area Plan implementation, Comprehensive Plan updates, and multiple transportation and greenway projects.

Skills

Leadership

Collaboration

Policy analysis

Community engagement

Project management

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Urban Planning or Public Administration

Master’s degree in Urban Planning or Public Administration

Tools

GIS

Office software

Job description

The Town of Carrboro seeks an experienced Planning Director to lead the Planning, Zoning and Inspections Department, overseeing planning, zoning, development review, building permitting, minimum housing, and inspection programs. The director will report to the Assistant Town Manager and provide strategic leadership for long‑range and current planning, including floodplain and watershed management.

The ideal candidate will direct staff, guide policy updates, engage councils and communities, and