City of Austin - JOB DESCRIPTION

Director, Planning

Under nominal direction, this position is responsible for directing planning and zoning strategies for the City of Austin.

1. Directs planning and zoning operations to achieve goals, partnering with diverse stakeholders that include residents, community organizations, and private and nonprofit entities. Supports programs and initiatives related to zoning and urban design, inclusive planning, and acquisition and development of real property.
2. Interprets applicable laws, charters, codes, ordinances, etc. to carry out duties.
3. Presents to City Council and related boards and commissions regarding planning and zoning matters for the city.
4. Serves as a board member or official of separate legal instrumentalities of the City of Austin. Represents the City of Austin before the business community on zoning policy issues and programs.
5. Manages and participates in the development and administration of the department budget; estimates funds needed for staffing, equipment, materials, and supplies; directs the monitoring and approval of expenditures; and directs the preparation and implementation of budgetary adjustments as necessary.
6. Develops and negotiates contracts between the City, private developers, and other governmental entities in major, high-profile redevelopment projects that directly impact planning and zoning.
7. Acts as official departmental representative to other City departments, City Manager’s Office, elected officials, and outside agencies; explains, justifies, and defends department programs, policies, and activities; and negotiates and resolves sensitive, significant, and controversial issues. Briefs and advises City management, the Mayor, and City Council regarding matters related to planning, and zoning issues either in person or through written reports.

Responsible for the full range of supervisory activities including selection, training, evaluation, counseling, and recommendation for dismissal

• Knowledge of planning principles, urban design, and land development regulations.
• Knowledge of fiscal planning and budget preparation.
• Knowledge of principles and practices of public administration.
• Knowledge of principles, practices, and methods of grant management.
• Knowledge of public policy development and analysis.
• Knowledge of community needs assessment techniques.
• Knowledge and understanding of the concepts of equity, including experience in applying equity frameworks to established laws, ordinances, and long-standing practices.
• Skill in directing the activities of a complex and diverse organization.
• Ability to resolve sensitive issues and complaints.
• Ability to interpret, recommend, and propose revisions to State statutes and City ordinances.
• Ability to partner with diverse stakeholders to achieve outcomes that advance economic opportunity and affordability strategies.
• Ability to use an equity lens and framework to create inclusive, diverse, and safe workplaces and community programs.
• Ability to manage diversity, understand inclusion, and work with diverse communities or populations to build constructive and effective relationships.

• Graduation with a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in Public Administration, Planning, Social Sciences, , or other related field, plus eight (8) years progressively responsible professional experience in planning and zoning, including three (3) of which were in a supervisory or managerial capacity.
• Graduation with a Master’s degree from an accredited college or university in a related field may substitute for non-supervisory/ managerial experience up to a maximum of two (2) years.