Director of Planning

The Town of South Kingstown, a diverse coastal community of 30,000 residents which has a number of unique and distinct villages across the Town’s 63 square miles, is seeking an experienced planning professional for the role of Planning Director.  The position reports directly to the Town Manager, and works with several of the Town’s boards and commissions. Duties include high level technical, administrative, and professional planning work; coordinating and supervising the Planning Department’s program; municipal policy development relating to land use and long range community planning; the development, general administration, and implementation of the Town’s long range comprehensive planning efforts, growth management program, community sustainability efforts; and development of the Department’s annual operating budget. The position also serves to coordinate and assist the activities of other municipal departments in their review of planning, zoning, and development associated proposals and projects.

 

To be considered, candidates must have a thorough knowledge of modern land use planning principles and practices; current Federal, State, and local land use planning and environmental law; and have the ability to apply technical knowledge and exercise independent judgment in carrying out responsibilities according to general policy directives and specific legal requirements. Candidates must also have demonstrated administrative, financial, supervisory, and general management skills. Candidates must possess excellent interpersonal skills and verbal and written communication skills, and a demonstrated ability to prioritize tasks and meet deadlines.  Required qualifications include a Bachelor’s degree in community planning, urban affairs, natural resources science, or a related field and a minimum of ten (10) years of experience; or a Master’s Degree in Community Planning (MCP) and five (5) or more years in a leadership and supervisory capacity.  Certification by the American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) is also preferred.

 

This full time position has a salary associated with Non-Union Grade 16, starting at $102,060, and includes a comprehensive benefit package as detailed within the Town’s Non-Union Employee Benefit Summary. To apply, please submit your application, cover letter, and resume to jobs@southkingstownri.com or by hand or mail to the Personnel Administrator, Town Hall, 180 High Street, Wakefield, RI 02879. Applications and further information can be found on the Town’s website www.southkingstownri.com. Application materials will be accepted through Tuesday June 30, 2020.