Planning Director

City of Inman, South Carolina | Full-Time | Reports to the City Administrator | Open Until Fill ed SHAPE THE FUTURE OF A GROWING UPSTATE COMMUNITY Inman, South Carolina is entering an exciting season of growth, and the City is looking for a Planning Director to help guide it. Positioned at the crossroads of Interstates 26 and 85 and just ten minutes from downtown Spartanburg, Inman offers small-town charm alongside easy access to Charlotte, Asheville, Greenville, Columbia, and Atlanta. The City's historic downtown has recently undergone a major streetscape renovation, new subdivisions are moving toward construction following annexation, the 159-unit Inman Mills apartment renovation is complete, three new restaurants have opened downtown, and the Saluda Grade Trail, a 31-mile rails-to-trails project, is set to begin within the next two years. This is a rare opportunity for a planning professional to have a direct, visible hand in shaping how that growth unfolds. ABOUT THE ROLE: Under limited supervision, the Planning Director plans, organizes, and directs the City's planning and zoning activities. This position develops comprehensive plans and strategies for the City's growth and development, and ensures the equitable and reasonable enforcement of approved City codes and regulations related to development. The Planning Director reports directly to the City Administrator and serves as the City's Zoning Administrator. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES: Serve as the City's Zoning Administrator, researching issues, policies, and concepts related to planning, zoning, and development. Present reports, analysis, and findings to the Planning Commission and City Council. Prepare written responses to public requests, zoning applications, and ordinance or development code changes. Direct the development and implementation of a comprehensive plan based on City goals, growth issues, citizen needs, and applicable state and federal law. Coordinate local comprehensive planning efforts with county, state, and regional planning officials to support development that is well-aligned across governmental boundaries. Provide leadership, training, and performance guidance for planning staff and department operations. WHAT YOU BRING: Bachelor's degree in Urban or Regional Planning, Zoning, or a related field required; Master's degree preferred. Three or more years of experience in planning, zoning, or a closely related field. Three to five years of personnel management experience preferred, or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience. Valid South Carolina driver's license required. AICP (American Institute of Certified Planners) certification preferred. Extensive knowledge of planning programs, processes, and zoning laws, along with working knowledge of GIS applications. COMPENSATION & BENEFITS: Salary based on qualifications and experience. Participation in the South Carolina local government employee retirement system. Health, vision, and dental insurance through the SC Public Employee Benefit Authority, with employee health coverage paid by the City. Life insurance and short-term disability benefits. Professional educational opportunities. Eleven paid holidays annually. Healthy Living and Childcare supplements available. This position is open until filled. The City of Inman is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All job offers are contingent upon successful completion of a drug screen and background investigations, which may include criminal history, driving record, credit report, employment history, education verification, and personal references. #J-18808-Ljbffr