Zoning Administrator

Zoning Administrator

This role is a professional, administrative, and management position responsible for overseeing all zoning aspects of the department. This position is responsible for the effective administration of the provisions of county zoning regulations and advises county staff and external customers on matters relating to zoning compliance and land use. Work requires a high level of interpersonal communication and group facilitation skills as well as a keen understanding of interagency relationships. Work is assigned by the Director and Deputy Directors of the department in terms of general instructions.

Supervises and evaluates the work of the planners and plan reviewers, as well as other support positions, as assigned.

Administers the provisions of the County Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) including regulations for zoning, signs, subdivisions, and other pertinent land development standards. Coordinates with the Code Enforcement Division regarding violations of applicable codes.

Prepares analysis and recommendations on requests for zoning map amendments (i.e., rezonings) and conducts site inspections, as needed.

Reviews commercial development plans, land disturbance permits, residential subdivision plans, preliminary plats, and final plats for zoning and land use policy compliance.

Represents the county in meetings with developers, engineers, citizens, community organizations, and others regarding planning and zoning activities; attends evening community meetings, as needed.

Reviews, analyzes, and presents variance requests and administrative appeals to the Board of Adjustment.

Interprets and makes determinations on behalf of the Director related to development projects, zoning verification letters, and land use policy/procedures.

Serves as an advisor on zoning issues to the Planning Commission, Board of Adjustment, and the Board of Commissioners.

Answers inquiries and provides written and verbal information to the general public on adopted zoning practices and policies.

Conducts public meetings and workshops regarding amendments to the Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) and the Comprehensive Plan.

Works with various county and state agencies on special projects, as needed.

Employees in this classification may be expected to perform any related duties as required by proper authority.

Knowledge of department and county policies and procedures.

Knowledge of the principles and practices of zoning and short- and long-range planning. Knowledge of relevant federal, state, and local zoning laws, statutes, and regulations.

Knowledge of the provisions of the county zoning ordinance, subdivision regulations, and property platting processes.

Skilled in organizing work, setting priorities, meeting critical deadlines, and following-up on assignments with minimum direction.

Skilled in compiling information and preparing reports.

Skilled in operating modern office equipment; basic computer applications for word processing and spreadsheets, technology skills utilizing Microsoft Office Suite and other applicable software.

Ability to read and interpret maps, professional drawings, site plans, and development standards.

Ability to exercise judgment in dealing with complex factors.

Ability to interpret vague or ambiguous zoning language.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers, other departments, and outside agencies.

Ability to use diplomacy under stressful situations assuring the county is reflected in a positive light; must function effectively within a political environment.

Ability to deal courteously and diplomatically with the general public and establish effective working relationships with others.

Ability to communicate clearly and effectively orally and in writing.

Ability to perform work while sitting, standing, walking, bending, crouching, and stooping.

Ability to occasionally lift light to moderately heavy objects.

Ability to see, hear, and speak.

Ability to perform work sitting at a desk.

Typically performed in an office with occasional field work at development sites.

Minimum Qualifications:

1. Bachelor's degree in Urban/Regional Planning, Public Administration, or a related field.
2. Five (5) years of experience in progressively responsible roles directly related to zoning administration.
3. OR have a combination of education, training, and work experience equivalent to numbers #1 and #2 above.
4. Valid State of Georgia Driver's License