Director of Planning and Community Development

The City of College Park, MD, a progressive and diverse community of 34,740, seeks an experienced professional to direct and manage its Department of Planning. This energetic, executive-level position reports to the City Manager and leads a team of three personnel. The department is housed in the beautiful new City Hall located in downtown College Park which has received numerous awards for its unique architecture and design. We are located a half-mile walk from the green line in College Park Metro Station and near the future Purple Line.

The Director of Planning coordinates and manages the City's planning, development review, and community improvement programs and activities. The work involves participation in planning activities with the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission (M-NCPPC), such as sector plans, master plans, and park plans; administration for the City's Advisory Planning Commission; preparation of grant applications to support neighborhood revitalization; and implementation of community programs and projects that protect the property values and welfare of City residents. The Director will be expected to be highly engaged in the College Park Community and to attend in-person meetings of the City Council and neighborhood associations regularly. The director of this department will also prepare and monitor the department budget; and plan, assign and review the work of the team this person leads.

The ideal candidate will demonstrate high commitment and integrity to the College Park community and provide the skills to troubleshoot, communicate, and build necessary relationships.

The preferred qualifications of the ideal candidate are a master's degree in Urban or Community Planning or a closely related field; a minimum of 10 years of broad experience in various planning areas that include but are not limited to housing, transportation, architecture, urban design, community/neighborhood planning, and placemaking. AICP certification and knowledge and understanding of the current planning, zoning, and development processes in Prince George's County are also preferred. A combination of education and experience that qualifies a candidate for the position will be considered.

The City offers a generous fringe benefits package, including medical, dental, life, and retirement plans.

The hiring range is anticipated to be $101,139 to $130,000, depending on experience, plus excellent benefits. The complete pay range for the position is 101,139 to $166,893, providing room for growth in the future. To be considered in the first review of candidates, submit your application online at https://collegeparkmd.applicantpool.com/jobs/, including a cover letter and resume, by February 24, 2023.

The City of College Park is an equal-opportunity employer.