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City of Lauderdale Lakes, FL

Assistant Director/Principal Planner

City of Lauderdale Lakes, FL, Florida, New York, United States

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Overview Under the general direction of the Development Services Director, the Principal Planner performs advanced professional and managerial work of considerable difficulty related to community planning, redevelopment, and urban design. This position is responsible for leading major planning initiatives, supervising staff within the Planning and Zoning Division, and providing technical expertise in land use, urban design, community development, and economic revitalization.

The Principal Planner exercises independent judgment in the application of advanced planning principles, practices, and techniques to complex projects and programs. The position requires extensive collaboration with City management, elected officials, community organizations, developers, consultants, and the public to ensure that development activities align with the City’s vision, Comprehensive Plan, and Land Development Regulations.

Responsibilities

Directs and manages the operations and staff of the Planning and Zoning Division, including professional planners and administrative personnel.

Coordinates, reviews, and evaluates the preparation of comprehensive planning studies, special planning projects, redevelopment strategies, and neighborhood improvement plans.

Prepares, updates, and implements the City’s Comprehensive Plan, zoning code, and design standards.

Conducts and supervises complex technical research on land use, demographics, transportation, housing, economic development, and environmental sustainability.

Oversees preparation of maps, charts, reports, and visual aids for presentation to advisory boards, the Planning and Zoning Board, City Commission, and public forums.

Reviews and analyzes site plans, rezoning requests, development proposals, and amendments for consistency with local, state, and regional policies.

Prepares and delivers professional staff reports and presentations before elected and appointed bodies.

Serves as liaison to the public, community groups, and intergovernmental agencies regarding planning and development matters.

Provides staff support to Planning and Zoning and Historic Preservations Boards.

Collaborates with the City’s Business Specialist, Economic Development Manager, and the Community Redevelopment Agency to ensure coordination of economic development and revitalization efforts.

Administers and monitors grants and programs related to community development, affordable housing, and neighborhood improvement programs.

Provides training, mentorship, and performance evaluations for planning staff and supports the professional development of the team.

Represents the Department in meetings, workshops, and conferences; stays informed of legislative and regulatory changes affecting urban planning.

Acts as the Development Services Director in their absence.

ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES

Assists with preparation of the department budget and monitors expenditures.

Provides recommendations on departmental policies, procedures, and operational improvements.

Participates in interdepartmental coordination to ensure integrated planning and development review processes.

Performs other duties as assigned by the Director.

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Urban or Regional Planning, Public Administration, or a related field from an accredited college or university.

Seven (7) years of progressively responsible professional experience in urban or community planning, including at least two (2) years in a supervisory or management capacity.

Master’s degree in Planning or related field may substitute for one year of experience.

American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) certification preferred.

Municipal government experience strongly desired.

Valid Florida Driver’s License required.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

Advanced principles, practices, and techniques of urban planning, community redevelopment, land use, and zoning.

Federal, state, and local regulations governing planning, zoning, and community development.

Socio-economic research methods, data analysis, and GIS applications.

Principles of management, supervision, and public administration.

Public presentation techniques and methods for effective public engagement.

Managing multiple projects and meeting deadlines under pressure.

Preparing clear, concise, and well-organized reports and presentations.

Using planning software, GIS, and Microsoft Office applications.

Exercising professional judgment and maintaining confidentiality in sensitive matters.

Interpret and apply complex planning and zoning regulations.

Analyze data and prepare accurate, comprehensive planning studies.

Communicate effectively with staff, officials, and the public both orally and in writing.

Establish and maintain cooperative relationships with internal and external stakeholders.

Supervise and mentor professional staff and foster a collaborative team environment.

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