Planning Director

Knoxchamber; Mount Vernon (OH); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Knox County is seeking a knowledgeable Planning Director to guide responsible growth across the community. The role combines technical expertise with public service, working with residents, developers, and officials to shape long-term development.

Responsibilities include leading the Planning Commission, reviewing zoning and subdivision requests, preparing staff analyses, and communicating complex planning concepts to diverse audiences.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in planning, geography, architecture or related field.
• Experience in land use, zoning and development preferred.
• Ability to pass background checks and maintain driver’s license.

Responsibilities

• Oversee Knox County Planning Commission and coordinate with departments.
• Review subdivision, development, zoning and floodplain applications.
• Prepare staff reports, analyses and recommendations for the Planning Commission.
• Advise residents, developers, businesses on planning, land use and development.
• Liaise with townships and local governments on planning matters.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Communication skills

Public service

Collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in planning or related field

Job description

Knox County is seeking a knowledgeable, collaborative and forward-thinking Planning Director to help guide responsible growth and development throughout our community.

This is an opportunity for an experienced planning professional who enjoys combining technical expertise with public service. You’ll work with residents, developers, businesses, townships, government officials and community partners on projects that have a lasting impact on Knox County.

Position: Planning Director
Department: Knox County Planning Commission
Status: Full-time, 40 hours per week; Exempt; Unclassified; Non-Bargaining
Typical Schedule: Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. After hours as required.
Location: 117 East High Street, Mount Vernon, OH 43050
Compensation: Commensurate with experience

Essential Functions

The Planning Director oversees and coordinates the work of the Knox County Planning Commission and plays a key role in countywide planning and development. Primary responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Reviewing subdivision, development, zoning and floodplain applications for compliance with applicable plans, regulations and requirements.
• Coordinating the review of development projects with county departments, townships and outside agencies.
• Preparing professional staff reports, technical analyses and recommendations for the Planning Commission and other boards and commissions.
• Advising residents, developers, businesses and local governments on planning, zoning, land use, subdivision and development matters.
• Working with architects, builders, attorneys, engineers and public officials on proposed developments and planning issues.
• Supporting long- and short-range planning initiatives that guide community growth and development.
• Serving as a liaison to townships and other local government partners on planning and zoning matters.
• Presenting information, recommendations and planning matters at public meetings and hearings.

The successful candidate will be someone who can understand the technical details and communicate them effectively to people with very different perspectives.

The candidate should bring:

• Knowledge of land-use planning, zoning and development principles and practices.
• Strong analytical and critical-thinking skills.
• The ability to interpret site plans, architectural drawings, development plans, regulations and other technical documents.
• Sound independent judgment and the ability to manage responsibilities with limited supervision.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• The ability to build productive working relationships with public officials, residents, developers and community partners.
• Excellent organization, prioritization and customer-service skills.

Job Standards

A bachelor’s degree in planning, geography, architecture, architectural history, real estate and urban analysis, historic preservation, public administration or a related field is preferred. An equivalent combination of education, experience and training that provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities will also be considered.
Must have a valid driver's license and ability to drive.
Must be able to pass pre-hire background checks and other screenings.

The decisions, recommendations and relationships developed by the Planning Director help influence how communities grow, how development moves forward and how Knox County plans for its future.

If you’re a planning professional who values thoughtful development, strong community relationships and meaningful public service, we want to hear from you.

Knox County Planning Commission is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Additional Postings available from Knox County Commissioners