Community Development Director

DDA Human Resources, Inc.; Elko New Market (MN); On-site; USD 131,000 - 164,000; Full time

Job summary

The City of Elko New Market is seeking an experienced municipal planning professional to lead its Community Development Department and shape the community's growth in a hands-on leadership role.

Key priorities include updating the Comprehensive Plan, developing a Shoreland Ordinance, and guiding residential and commercial development with a collaborative leadership style.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in urban planning or related field; seven+ years of urban planning experience plus economic development experience.
• Master’s degree in a related field is preferred; AICP designation is preferred.
• Economic development certification preferred; strong leadership and communication skills required.

Responsibilities

• Lead the update of the City’s Comprehensive Plan.
• Develop and adopt a Shoreland Ordinance.
• Guide continued residential and commercial development.
• Build and lead a proactive Community Development Department.

Skills

Land-use planning

Relationship-building

Communication skills

Leadership

Education

Bachelor's degree in urban planning or related field

Master’s degree preferred

AICP designation preferred

Economic development certification

Job description

Seeking: Community Development Director - City of Elko New Market, MN

(Hiring Range: $131,060–$139,734; Full Salary Range: $131,060–$163,945.)

The City of Elko New Market is seeking an experienced municipal planning professional to lead its Community Development Department and help shape the community’s continued growth.

Located in Scott County with convenient access to the Twin Cities, Elko New Market offers small-town character, strong community connections, and significant opportunities for residential and commercial development.

This is a hands-on leadership opportunity for a planner who wants to make a visible impact.

Key priorities include:

• Leading the City’s Comprehensive Plan update
• Developing and adopting a Shoreland Ordinance
• Guiding continued residential and commercial development
• Building a thoughtful, proactive Community Development Department

The ideal candidate will bring strong municipal land-use planning experience, excellent relationship-building and communication skills, a collaborative leadership style, and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a growing community.

Application Deadline: October 21, 2026

Education and Experience Requirements:

Bachelor's degree urban planning, public administration or related field with coursework in urban planning. Extensive experience with a minimum of seven years of urban planning and experience in economic development with increasing responsibility or supervisory responsibility, or any equivalent combination of experience and training which provides the knowledge and abilities necessary to perform the work. Master’s Degree in a related field, economic development certification, and AICP designation preferred.