Strategic Community Development Leader

City of St Joseph; Spring Lake Township (MI); On-site; USD 95,000 - 98,000; Full time

Job summary

Spring Lake Township is seeking a visionary Community Development Director to oversee planning, zoning, building inspection, code enforcement, grant management, and long‑range planning. You will supervise the staff and serve as staff liaison to boards and commissions, reporting to the Township Manager.

The ideal candidate holds a Bachelor’s degree in urban planning with at least five years of related experience and a valid Michigan driver's license; AICP certification is desirable.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in urban planning or a related field.
• Five years of experience in a planning or community development department, including supervisory and administrative experience.
• Valid Michigan Driver’s License; AICP desirable.

Responsibilities

• Plan, organize, and direct departmental operations including personnel and budgeting.
• Lead zoning, building inspection, code enforcement, and long-range planning initiatives.
• Prepare and manage budgets for Building Department operations.
• Serve as zoning administrator and oversee plan reviews, site plans, and encumbrances.
• Coordinate grant writing and administration; liaise with boards and commissions.
• Provide technical reviews and staff support to the Township Manager and Planning Commission.

Skills

Planning

Zoning

Code enforcement

Grant writing

Leadership

Public speaking

GIS

Budgeting

Staff supervision

Education

Bachelor’s degree in urban planning

Tools

GIS software

Building & drafting software

Job description

Spring Lake Township is seeking a visionary Community Development Director to oversee planning, zoning, building inspection, code enforcement, grant management, and long‑range planning. You will supervise the staff and serve as staff liaison to boards and commissions, reporting to the Township Manager.

The ideal candidate holds a Bachelor’s degree in urban planning with at least five years of related experience and a valid Michigan driver's license; AICP certification is desirable.