Deputy Director of Community Development

Connecticut Chapter of the American Planning Association (CCAPA); East Hartford (CT); On-site; USD 90,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

The Town of East Hartford is seeking a Deputy Director of Community Development to lead land use planning, zoning, and development programs. You will supervise staff, coordinate with boards and the public, and guide major planning initiatives.

This on-site role focuses on current and long-range planning and redevelopment opportunities. Preferred qualifications include a master’s degree in urban planning or related field and at least four years in municipal development; AICP certification is

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Urban Planning or related field; four years of relevant experience.
• Experience in local government and supervision, budgeting, and research.
• AICP planner certification desirable.

Responsibilities

• Direct and coordinates current and long-range planning activities, zoning administration and studies.
• Oversee land use review, coordinate with developers, attorneys, engineers and public.
• Lead planning studies and implementation of planning initiatives and special projects.
• Supervise planning, zoning, and administrative staff and manage consultants.
• Support Development Director with operations and grant-funded initiatives.

Skills

Municipal planning knowledge

Zoning and land use expertise

Staff supervision

Interagency coordination

Public speaking & report writing

Education

Master's degree in Urban Planning or related field

Job description

Position Definition

The Town of East Hartford is looking for a highly skilled and motivated Deputy Director of Community Development to support the town’s vision, goals, and talent strategy within the Development Department. This position is crucial for directing, planning, and organizing land use, building services, and community development programs and operations. Serves as the town's lead planner and performs professional, technical, and supervisory work related to current and long-range planning, land use, and development. Oversees development review and zoning administration; leads planning studies and the implementation of planning initiatives; supervises assigned planning, zoning, and administrative staff; and assists the Development Director with departmental leadership and special projects. The position may also assist with redevelopment, economic development, grant-funded, and other strategic development initiatives as assigned.

Essential Job Functions

• Direct and coordinates the Town's current and long-range planning activities, including development review, zoning administration, planning studies, and implementation of adopted plans and initiatives.


• Oversees the land use review process and coordinates with applicants, developers, attorneys, engineers, consultants, Town departments, boards and commissions, and the public.


• Serves as professional planning staff to the Planning and Zoning Commission and other boards, commissions, and committees as assigned.


• Leads or coordinates long-range and special planning studies addressing land use, housing, transportation, redevelopment, community development, and related Town priorities.


• Conducts research, analyzes data, and prepares reports, maps, recommendations, plans, and other materials related to land use and development.


• Research and prepares amendments to zoning and other land use regulations and policies.


• Supervises and provides professional guidance to assigned planning, zoning, and administrative staff.


• Manages planning consultants, contracts, grants, and related projects as assigned.


• Assists the Development Director with departmental operations, policies, priorities, and special initiatives.


• Represents the Department before boards, commissions, governmental agencies, community organizations, and other groups as assigned.


• Maintains knowledge of applicable planning and zoning laws, regulations, policies, and professional practices.

Economic Development

• Assists with redevelopment and economic development initiatives as assigned, including property redevelopment, development proposals, public-private partnerships, and other strategic projects.


• Coordinates with property owners, developers, businesses, governmental agencies, and community partners to advance redevelopment and economic development opportunities.


• Identifies, pursues, and assists with the administration of grants and other funding opportunities supporting planning, redevelopment, infrastructure, economic development, and other departmental priorities.

Additional Job Functions

• Assists with special projects, initiatives, and interdepartmental assignments, as directed.


• Represents the Department before boards, commissions, community organizations, regional agencies, governmental entities, and professional organizations, as assigned.


• Maintains knowledge of planning, zoning, economic development and related best practices and legislative developments, and performs other related duties as needed.

Knowledge, Skills And Abilities

• Thorough knowledge of the principles and practices of municipal planning, zoning, land use, community development, and economic development.


• Thorough knowledge of applicable federal, state, and local laws, regulations, ordinances, and policies governing planning and development.


• Knowledge of municipal government operations, budgeting, project management, and organizational administration.


• Ability to develop and implement departmental policies, programs, and strategic initiatives.


• Ability to supervise professional and administrative staff.


• Ability to analyze complex planning and operational issues and exercise professional judgment.


• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with elected and appointed officials, municipal staff, developers, consultants, businesses, and the public.


• Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, including preparing reports and making presentations before boards, commissions, and public groups.


• Ability to manage multiple priorities and projects while meeting deadlines.

Job Qualifications And Licensing

The Deputy Development Director shall have a master’s degree in Urban Planning, Business Administration, or a closely related field and four years of increasingly responsible experience in community affairs, urban planning, or municipal development or an equivalent combination of education and practical work experience. Experience in a local government setting; experience in a rapidly growing community; experience in supervision, budgeting, marketing, and research principles. Certifications: Certification as a Planner by the American Institute of Certified Planners desirable and/or \"Certified Economic Developer\" (CEcD) is desirable.

Licensing Requirements

• Valid Motor Vehicle Operator’s License.

Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Statement

The Town of East Hartford proudly stands as an equal opportunity employer, dedicated to fostering a work environment free from discrimination. We firmly uphold the principles of equality, ensuring that all individuals are treated fairly without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. Our commitment to inclusivity and diversity is unwavering, and we enthusiastically encourage applicants from all walks of life to join our team. The Town of East Hartford is an Equal Opportunity Employer.