Director of Planning

Lapel, Indiana; Lapel (IN); On-site; USD 60,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

The Town of Lapel is seeking a dynamic Director of Planning to lead planning and project development, ensure code and ordinance compliance, and support transparent administration. You will interact with taxpayers, developers, and vendors to advance Lapel's short- and long-term goals.

Responsibilities include updating planning documents, preparing staff reports, and coordinating public outreach and meetings while maintaining planning records and website content.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in planning or related field from an accredited university.
• Five years of experience as a town planner.
• Master’s degree and/or professional certifications preferred.

Responsibilities

• Develop and update community planning documents and plans.
• Coordinate planning reviews, reports, and recommendations for boards and officials.
• Maintain planning records, maps, and digital archives.
• Assist with public outreach and information materials.
• Support efficient administrative processes within the department.

Skills

Written and oral communication

Time management

Stakeholder engagement

Education

Bachelor’s degree in planning or related field

Master’s degree preferred

Tools

Geographic Information System

Microsoft Office

Job description

The Town of Lapel seeks a dynamic and experienced Director of Planning

Summary of the Role:

The Director of Planning serves as a key professional supporting the Town of Lapel in planning and project development, adherence to codes, standards and ordinances, communications, and in developing and maintaining efficient administrative processes. The Director of Planning interacts with taxpayers and other stakeholders, including developers and vendors, to ensure the delivery of high quality services supporting the Town of Lapel’s short-and long-term goals and objectives. The Director of Planning will work in a dynamic, team-based environment requiring performance of other professional duties as assigned.

FLSA STATUS: Exempt

DEPARTMENT:Planning REPORTS TO: Town Manager

PREFERRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

A bachelor’s degree in planning or a closely related field from an accredited university required, along with five years of experience as a town planner. Master’s degree and/or professional certifications preferred.

SALARY RANGE:$60,000 - $70,000

The Town of Lapel is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status.

TOWN OF LAPEL JOB DESCRIPTION

POSITION: DIRECTOR OF PLANNING

FLSA STATUS: Exempt

DEPARTMENT: Planning REPORTS TO: Town Manager

Essential Professional Skills

• Promote a professional and efficient environment for Town of Lapel taxpayers and other stakeholders.
• Exhibit excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Employ superior time management skills, including prioritizing and multi-tasking to complete work correctly and on time.
• Navigate stressful and/or unplanned circumstances with professionalism, patience and positivity.
• Support the business needs of the town by working varying hours as needed, including attendance at evening meetings.
• Utilize Microsoft Office programs, Geographic Information System and other required technology in a proficient manner.

Planning & Project Development

• Develop, update, and implement community planning documents, including comprehensive plans, master plans, strategic plans, and related studies.
• Conduct short-, medium-, and long-term project planning, including timelines, resource needs, and coordination with internal and external partners.
• Perform research, data collection, and analysis to support planning initiatives and policy development.

Codes, Standards & Ordinances

• Review and update the Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) and other zoning, subdivision, and development-related codes and standards.
• Research, draft, and present new or amended ordinances in response to community needs, regulatory changes, or planning best practices.
• Ensure codes and policies align with community plans and state/local regulations.

Development Review & Recommendations

• Review petition applications such as rezonings, subdivisions, variances, special uses, and other development requests.
• Prepare staff reports, findings, and recommendations for boards, commissions, and elected officials.
• Assist applicants, residents, and stakeholders with interpreting zoning regulations, processes, and planning policies.

Records & Administrative Processes

• Create, maintain, and organize planning department records, files, maps, and digital archives.
• Develop and refine administrative processes and workflow systems to ensure efficient and transparent operations.
• Prepare reports, presentations, and documentation for public meetings, staff use, and grant applications.
• Manage or assist with the town’s website content related to planning, development, and community information.
• Support social media communication to share planning updates, public notices, and community engagement opportunities.
• Coordinate public outreach efforts, including public meetings, surveys, and informational materials.

Physical Demands/Work Environment: The physical demand requirements of this position are those associated with working in a typical office environment. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.