Associate Planner

Associate Planner

New Hanover County's Planning and Land Use department is seeking a motivated Associate Planner to perform professional planning duties including researching and drafting of text amendments and supporting the Board of Adjustment. This position works as part of the department's operations division, in close coordination with development review and community planning.

This position requires strong analytical and communication skills; experience in policy analysis and regulatory administration; competence in managing multiple tasks and projects; and the ability to clearly communicate technical information through written reports, memorandums, and presentations.

Duties Include:

• Evaluating and preparing written reports on applications for variances, appeals of staff determinations, and reasonable accommodations.
• Researching, developing, and vetting Unified Development Ordinance maintenance amendments.
• Supporting Department leadership in policy-related ordinance amendments; and maintaining department code interpretation records.
• Ensuring consistent and proper application of the County's development ordinances when assisting customers on the phone and in-person.
• Record Keeping, general customer service, and case management.
• Performing professional work related to a variety of planning assignments, such as conducting planning studies, reviewing and processing development review applications, and developing plan and ordinance amendments.
• Formulating and communicating to County Officials and the public proposed plans, policies, developmental measures, and documents detailing present and future growth and development activities for the County.
• Assisting with public outreach and education, communicating both in writing and verbally through presentations, reports, formal review comments, and informal feedback discussions to the general public, elected and appointed officials, and stakeholders.
• Providing representation on various quasi government committees/work groups/agencies related to planning and development.

New Hanover County's Planning and Land Use department is comprised of a team of dedicated professionals and oversees research, planning, and zoning activities to ensure orderly growth and development for New Hanover County, using the comprehensive plan as a guide. Our planning team is committed to a pragmatic, solution-oriented approach to addressing the ongoing challenges of working with the development community, residents, and other stakeholders to implement the county's long-term vision and lay a framework for the next twenty to thirty years of growth and development in the unincorporated areas of the county.

New Hanover County is dedicated to the recruitment and recognition of a talented and diverse workforce that is committed to public service. Our shared values of professionalism, innovation, equity, integrity, stewardship and accountability guide the way we conduct ourselves and deliver services to our customers. New Hanover County celebrates diversity in our employees' backgrounds, beliefs, identities, and abilities, while supporting growth opportunities for all. Our talented team has a passion for providing care and services that effect change on the everyday lives of the citizens they encounter. The differences that unite us are a reflection of the community we serve. If this sounds like an organization that models the values you uphold, we invite you to join our team at New Hanover County.

Living in New Hanover County, NC: New Hanover County offers an exceptional quality of life with its picturesque coastal location. Enjoy the stunning beaches, water activities, and a variety of recreational opportunities right at your doorstep. Immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture, indulge in diverse dining experiences, and explore historical landmarks. The county is known for its strong sense of community, excellent schools, and a thriving arts scene. With a focus on good governance and a commitment to customer service, New Hanover County provides an ideal environment for both personal and professional growth.

Hours: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Monday through Friday. Must be available to work during emergency situations. Salary Information: The hiring range for this position is $56,351 - $76,074. Salary will be determined based on qualifications.

New Hanover County offers:

• Employer paid 401k contributions;
• Retirement plan through the NC Retirement system;
• Flex time and telework availability, depending on your position;
• Paid sick and personal leave + 13 paid holidays per year;
• Paid parental leave;
• Paid community services leave to give back to our community;
• Education leave to obtain a degree within your line of work;
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance + many other insurance options;
• Onsite, employer-paid health and wellness center;
• Professional development trainings & leadership initiatives;
• Opportunities to make a difference in your community;
• And so much more!

Please check out our careers page for more information on why New Hanover County is a great place to work.

Qualifications

Minimum Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor's Degree in Planning or a related field and two (2) years of professional planning experience OR a Bachelor's Degree in an unrelated field and three (3) years of professional level planning experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Must have a valid NC Driver's License and good driving record.

What will make your application stand out:

• Master's Degree in Planning or a related field
• Previous North Carolina experience in administration of zoning codes
• Current AICP Certification
• NC Zoning Official Certification

Licenses/Certifications

• Valid North Carolina Driver License required by first date of employment.
• AICP Certification within five (5) years of employment.

Other Information

This role is posted continuously until filled, with a priority application date of Wednesday March 18th. After the priority application date for this position, applications will be screened by Human Resources. Applicants referred to the department will receive an email requesting important information pertinent to the position applied for. All updates regarding an application can be viewed through your applicant portal. In compliance with G.S. 153A-94.2(b), if this position requires an applicant for employment to work with children in any capacity, the county must require the applicant to undergo a criminal history record check conducted by the SBI for all offers of employment made after October 1, 2025. These checks must be performed in accordance with G.S. 143B-1209.26, which authorizes the SBI to provide fingerprint-based state and national criminal record checks to cities and counties. Additional information on how to complete this required check will be provided to the selected candidate after an offer of employment is accepted.

New Hanover County is an Equal Opportunity Employer.