Director of Planning and Zoning

Job Description

Job Description

Director of Planning & Zoning / Code Enforcement Official

City of Charlevoix, Michigan • Full-Time • Exempt

$75,000–$85,000, commensurate with relevant skills and background; generous benefits package and paid time off

Shape Charlevoix Today and Tomorrow — Lead Planning, Guide Growth, and Make a Lasting Impact

Join a Great Team in a Great Community

Charlevoix is a beautiful Lake Michigan resort city known for its outstanding quality of life, vibrant downtown, access to unlimited outdoor adventure, and friendly people. The City’s Council, Planning Commission, and staff are well-established, educated, and engaged. Charlevoix is recognized as a Redevelopment Ready Community by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation.

About the Role

A key leadership position reporting to the City Manager, the Director of Planning & Zoning oversees land-use planning, zoning administration, short-term rentals, blight and sign enforcement, and major development reviews. The position also serves as the City’s Code Enforcement Official and provides professional support to the Planning Commission and Zoning Board of Appeals. The person in this position should be prepared for a varied work environment and be able to communicate effectively and diplomatically in situations that may involve conflict between stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage zoning, sign, STR, and other permit applications with accuracy, efficiency, and professionalism.
• Ensure compliance with the property maintenance code and various civil ordinances with fair, firm, and timely enforcement.
• Review rezoning requests, site plans, special uses, subdivisions, PUDs, variances, and other major projects.
• Assist in communicating to the public and interested stakeholders the intent and goals of the
• Planning Commission and City Council on ordinance preparation and policy implementation.
• Prepare clear staff reports and advisories for the Planning Commission and ZBA.
• Collaborate with residents, developers, contractors, real estate professionals, and partner agencies.
• Implement the City’s Master Plan and support related planning initiatives.
• Oversee departmental budgeting and administrative tasks.
• Attend periodic evening meetings.
• Oversee part-time staff and consultants as conditions and projects may require.

Optimal Background

This is a hands-on role and covers a variety of skillsets. We especially welcome candidates with practical, hands-on experience in construction trades, law enforcement, real estate, or related fields who are well-prepared to manage permits and conduct enforcement. The position in this role will have demonstrated ability to work with the public and assist in the development of ordinances and public policy.

Minimum Qualifications

•  Bachelor’s degree in urban planning, economic development, architecture, political science, business, or related field.

•  Zoning Administrator Certification strongly preferred.

•  Building/code enforcement certifications (Michigan Building Code, IPMC) desirable.

•  At least 5 years of relevant and applicable experience in planning, zoning, or a related field.

Apply Online

This position is open until we find the right person to be the next member of our team. We’ll start reviewing applicants in mid-September with interviews during October. Ideally, the new person will begin in late 2026 or early 2027.

Submit the following documents:

•  Résumé

•  Cover letter detailing relevant experience

•  Three professional references

Find our application and apply online at:

Equal Opportunity Employer

The City of Charlevoix is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We value diversity and do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable law.