Planning and Zoning Director

Planning and Zoning Director — City of Dahlonega

The City of Dahlonega is seeking a highly qualified professional to serve as its Planning and Zoning Director. This role will drive operational excellence and innovation in a historic city, ensuring continued well‑being and sustainable growth of the community.

The City of Dahlonega operates under a Council‑Manager form of government. The City Council appoints a professional City Manager who serves as the chief administrative officer.

The Planning and Zoning Director is responsible for administrative and technical work related to city planning, zoning, land development activities, comprehensive planning, land use, and permitting. Responsibilities also include working with the City’s Planning Commission and Historic Preservation Commission, preparing recommendations on matters that require Planning Commission, Historic Preservation, and City Council action, and assisting with the city’s long‑range planning and development goals.

The Planning and Zoning Director reports to the City Manager and supervises one full‑time professional position and a part‑time administrative role.

• Knowledge and a level of competency commonly associated with the completion of a bachelor’s or higher degree in city, urban or regional planning, public administration, economic development, or related field.
• Five years of prior planning and zoning experience is required.
• Or any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience which provides the requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities for this position.
• Must possess and maintain a valid Georgia driver’s license or the ability to obtain one by date of employment.
• American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) certification or the ability to obtain AICP certification is preferred.

$90,000 - $112,000 depending on experience and qualifications.

• Medical Insurance
• FSA
• Voluntary Dental & Vision Insurance
• Employer Paid Short‑Term and Long‑Term Disability
• Defined Benefit Plan (Pension)
• 457 Deferred Compensation
• Life Insurance & AD&D
• Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Paid Holidays
• Wellness Program
• Tuition Reimbursement

The City of Dahlonega is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.