Deputy Zoning Administrator

City of Hampton; Hampton (VA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

The City of Hampton is seeking a Deputy Zoning Administrator to join the Community Development team. Under the Zoning Administrator, you will manage determinations, appeals, and development reviews, while supporting the Board of Zoning Appeals.

Collaboration with the City Attorney’s Office and multiple departments ensures the zoning ordinance stays current. The role requires five years in municipal planning/zoning, with strong knowledge of zoning laws, directives, and the ability to interpret

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in planning or related field from an accredited college or university.
• At least five years in municipal government with planning/zoning experience.
• Three of the five years in development review, ordinance amendments, or interpreting ordinances.
• AICP or VAZO zoning official certification preferred.
• Thorough knowledge of zoning laws, ordinances, and related procedures.
• Ability to read architectural/engineering drawings, site plans, plats, deeds, etc.
• Proficiency with PCs and land use software.
• Valid driver’s license and satisfactory driving record.
• Background check required before offer.

Responsibilities

• Manage zoning determinations, appeals, and development reviews.
• Provide staff support for the Board of Zoning Appeals.
• Collaborate with the Zoning Administrator, City Attorney’s Office and other departments to keep the zoning ordinance current.
• Coordinate daily zoning administration activities.
• Deliver timely and accurate services through Development Services Center and Planning & Zoning Administration.

Skills

Zoning administration

Ordinance interpretation

Policy analysis

Communication

Customer service

Education

Bachelor's degree in Planning or related field

Tools

Land use regulation software

Ordinance drafting tools

Job description

Are you a seasoned zoning professional with a passion for shaping communities and an interest in local government? Do you value integrity, trust, respect, accountability, creativity, and collaboration?

If you answered “yes,” then the City of Hampton has an exciting opportunity for you!

The City of Hampton is seeking a dedicated and experienced Deputy Zoning Administrator to join our Community Development team. In this role, you will work under the direct supervision of the Zoning Administrator, playing a pivotal role in the day-to-day administration of zoning functions. You will manage zoning determinations, appeals, and development reviews, while also providing critical support to the Board of Zoning Appeals. This position requires frequent collaboration with the Zoning Administrator, City Attorney’s Office, and various City departments to ensure the City's zoning ordinance remains legally current and aligned with policy.

As a key member of the Community Development Department, you will collaborate with the Development Services Center and Planning & Zoning Administration divisions to ensure timely and accurate service delivery. The position involves independent judgment, problem-solving, and strong communication skills, as well as the ability to operate in a dynamic work environment.

Works under the direct supervision of the Zoning Administrator to coordinate and manage daily zoning administration activities, including zoning determinations, appeals, development review, and staff support for the Board of Zoning Appeals. Partners with the Zoning Administrator and the City Attorney's Office to maintain a legally current zoning ordinance and collaborates with relevant staff to ensure the ordinance reflects current policies. Works closely with the Development Services Center and Planning & Zoning Administration Divisions to deliver accurate, efficient, and timely services.

Minimum Requirements

• Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Bachelor's Degree in Planning, Public or Governmental Administration or a related field of study.
• A minimum of five (5) years working in a municipal government environment with planning/zoning experience. At least three (3) years of experience of the five (5) must be as a practitioner in development review, drafting ordinance amendments, and interpreting ordinances.
• American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) or certification as a Zoning Official by the Virginia Association of Zoning Officials (VAZO) is preferred.
• Any acceptable combination of experience and education which qualifies the applicant for this particular position may be considered for the more specific requirements outlined above.
• Requires thorough knowledge of zoning laws, ordinances, and the legal procedures governing zoning administration and enforcement.
• Requires the ability to read and interpret architectural and engineering drawings, construction documents, site plans, plats, deeds, easement agreements, and environmental reports.
• Requires proficiency in the use of personal computers and applicable software, as well as familiarity with specialized systems used for land use regulation, development review, and code enforcement.
• Must possess a valid driver’s license and must have and maintain a satisfactory driving record based on the City of Hampton’s criteria.
• Must successfully pass a background check related to this position prior to an offer of employment or promotion.

Additional Requirements

• Requires the ability to provide exceptional customer service while maintaining accuracy, efficiency, and timeliness. Must communicate effectively both orally and in writing; establish and maintain positive working relationships with employees, customers, and diverse stakeholder groups; prepare complex correspondence and reports; interpret and explain policies, regulations, and standards; investigate and resolve complaints; and exercise sound independent judgment in decision-making.
• Requires frequent travel throughout the City and extensive contact with other City departments and related outside agencies, local, state, and federal officials and the public.
• This is an exempt position.
• The incumbent may be considered “essential personnel” during City emergencies or at the direction of the City Manager, which may include long hours and unusual schedules.