Planning Director

Salary: Depends on Qualifications
Location : Mount Vernon, OH
Job Type: Full-time
Job Number: 2026-PD
Department: Board of Commissioners
Opening Date: 08/24/2026


Objectives
Knox County is seeking a knowledgeable, collaborative and forward-thinking Planning Director to help guide responsible growth and development throughout our community.

This is an opportunity for an experienced planning professional who enjoys combining technical expertise with public service . You'll work with residents, developers, businesses, townships, government officials and community partners on projects that have a lasting impact on Knox County.
Position: Planning Director
Department: Knox County Planning Commission
Status: Full-time, 40 hours per week; Exempt; Unclassified; Non-Bargaining
Typical Schedule: Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. After hours as required.
Location: 117 East High Street, Mount Vernon, OH 43050
Compensation: Commensurate with experience

Essential Functions
The Planning Director oversees and coordinates the work of the Knox County Planning Commission and plays a key role in countywide planning and development. Primary responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Reviewing subdivision, development, zoning and floodplain applications for compliance with applicable plans, regulations and requirements.
• Coordinating the review of development projects with county departments, townships and outside agencies.
• Preparing professional staff reports, technical analyses and recommendations for the Planning Commission and other boards and commissions.
• Advising residents, developers, businesses and local governments on planning, zoning, land use, subdivision and development matters.
• Working with architects, builders, attorneys, engineers and public officials on proposed developments and planning issues.
• Supporting long- and short-range planning initiatives that guide community growth and development.
• Serving as a liaison to townships and other local government partners on planning and zoning matters.
• Presenting information, recommendations and planning matters at public meetings and hearings.

The successful candidate will be someone who can understand the technical details and communicate them effectively to people with very different perspectives.

The candidate should bring:

• Knowledge of land-use planning, zoning and development principles and practices.
• Strong analytical and critical-thinking skills.
• The ability to interpret site plans, architectural drawings, development plans, regulations and other technical documents.
• Sound independent judgment and the ability to manage responsibilities with limited supervision.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• The ability to build productive working relationships with public officials, residents, developers and community partners.
• Excellent organization, prioritization and customer-service skills.

Job Standards


A bachelor's degree in planning, geography, architecture, architectural history, real estate and urban analysis, historic preservation, public administration or a related field is preferred. An equivalent combination of education, experience and training that provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities will also be considered.
Must have a valid driver's license and ability to drive.
Must be able to pass pre-hire background checks and other screenings.

Supplemental Information
The decisions, recommendations and relationships developed by the Planning Director help influence how communities grow, how development moves forward and how Knox County plans for its future.

If you're a planning professional who values thoughtful development, strong community relationships and meaningful public service, we want to hear from you.

Knox County Planning Commission is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Knox County offers a complete package to full-time employees including: health care, dental, vision, life insurance, pension, paid holidays, vacation, sick leave, and deferred compensation plans.

To learn more, visit our Benefits Page.
01


Do you have a high school diploma or equivalent?

• Yes
• No

02


Do you have a bachelor's degree in planning, geography, architecture, architectural history, real estate and urban analysis, historic preservation, public administration or a related field?

• Yes
• No

03


Do you have a valid Ohio Driver's License with an acceptable driving record?
04


Have you ever worked for Knox County? If yes, please gives dates and position title.
05


I understand and accept that, depending upon the position for which I am applying, if I am employed by Knox County, my employment may be for no definite period of time and I may be terminated, with or without cause or notice at any time, at the opinion of either Knox County, or myself. I understand that no representative of Knox County, other than an Appointing Authority, has any authority to enter into any agreement or to make any agreement with me contrary to the foregoing, except that an Appointing Authority of Knox County may do so in writing under specific limited circumstances.

• Yes
• No

06


I understand and accept that, if I am selected for employment, my initial and continued employment may be conditioned upon my passing any medical examination that the employer deems necessary to determine whether I can physically perform the essential functions of the position, with reasonable accommodation when necessary. I understand and accept that this will include drug, alcohol, or substance abuse testing.

• Yes
• No

07


I understand and accept that if any information required in this application is found to be falsified or intentionally excluded, my application may be disqualified from further consideration. I further understand and accept that if I am employed by a Knox County Appointing Authority, I may be subject to disciplinary action, including termination, if any information required by this application has been falsified or intentionally excluded.

• Yes
• No

08


I understand and accept that the employer requires a high degree of integrity and confidentiality of its employees. I understand that the employer will use screening procedures to evaluate my qualifications and suitability for employment, including but not limited to interviews, criminal record checks, driving record checks, written testing, reference checks, background investigations, psychological evaluations, and drug testing. I also acknowledge that I may be subject to other screening procedures not specifically listed above, and that may be a prerequisite to my appointment.

• Yes
• No

09


I hereby authorize the employers, schools, and personal references named in this application to provide information regarding me to the employer. I further authorize the release of personal, academic, and other records to the employer.

• Yes
• No

10


I solemnly swear that all of the information furnished in this employment application is true, accurate, and complete to the best of my knowledge. I authorize investigation of all statements contained in this application. I understand that any misrepresentation or falsification of the information provided may lead to withdrawal of an employment offer or termination following employment. I recognize that my future employment with the employer will be jeopardized if I engage in substance abuse, illegal drug abuse, or alcohol abuse. Any background check conducted as part of the hiring process shall be in compliance with State and Federal law, including the Fair Credit Reporting Act and EEOC Enforcement guidelines and Knox County policies. Applicants are hereby advised that State and Federal law may disqualify an individual with a particular criminal history from employment in certain positions. Reference the following link to view a summary of your rights under the Fair Credit Reporting Act: Therefore, in consideration of my employment application being reviewed and considered by a Knox County, Ohio, Appointing Authority, I, being at least 18 years of age and under no legal disability on behalf of my heirs and assigns, hereby release and hold harmless Knox County, Ohio and any of its agents, employees, Appointing Authorities, related officials from any and all liability, whatever type and nature, resulting from the administration of any such screening procedures and/or release of the results there from.By typing your name - you are effectively agreeing and signing this application.
11


How did you hear about this position?

• County Website
• Social Media
• OhioMeansJobs
• Indeed
• Professional Association Website
• News Outlet
• Word of Mouth
• Other

Required Question