Zoning Administrator

Job Description

This Final date to receive applications on February 24, 2026 at 11:59 pm.

This position works under the general supervision of the Director of the Division of Planning and Development and leads the administration and operations of the Land Use & Development Services department. It includes review and analysis of zoning and subdivision applications; interpretation, administration, and amendments to the Unified Development Code (zoning and subdivision regulations); historic preservation; zoning and site plan review;

and zoning enforcement. This is an appointed position.

• Ten (10) years of experience in urban planning, with at least five (5) years of professional managerial capacity; and
• Bachelor's Degree from an accredited college or university in planning, engineering, public administration, architecture, or the social sciences; OR
• An equivalent combination of related education and/or experience.
• Master's Degree in City/County or Regional Planning preferred.
• PROOF OF EDUCATION, TRAINING, AND/OR EXPERIENCE IS REQUIRED.

• Sets the vision, goals, and strategic direction for the department; develops and implements strategic and work plans.
• Formulates departmental policies, directs their execution, and evaluates departmental performance and outcomes.
• Directs all personnel, fiscal, clerical, and administrative functions, including staffing, workflow, and management information systems, to improve effectiveness, efficiency, and cost control. Oversees and administers the department's budget and financial operations.
• Directs the administration, review, and enforcement of the Memphis and Shelby County Unified Development Code, including zoning, subdivision regulations, variances, land divisions, development-related ordinances and resolutions, and zoning compliance for development permits.
• Serves as chief zoning code official and ensures compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, standards, policies, and procedures; develops, updates, and implements internal policies and procedures.
• Oversees agenda preparation, staff reports, and administrative support for the Memphis and Shelby County Land Use Control Board, Board of Adjustment, and Memphis Landmarks Commission; serves as Secretary to designated boards.
• Directs the administration of the Memphis Landmarks Ordinance, including historic district project reviews, design review regulations, fee schedule recommendations, and requests for legislative action.
• Recommends the adoption, enactment, and amendment of City and County ordinances, resolutions, and regulations to ensure effective, efficient, and economical administration of land use and zoning regulations.
• Provides public-facing leadership through technical assistance, reporting, and oral and written presentations to residents, developers, professionals, elected officials, community organizations, and other stakeholders.
• Performs other related duties as required or directed.

• Thorough knowledge of applicable local and state laws, rules, and regulations regarding land use, zoning, development plans, and permitting.
• Demonstrated experience in a local government or planning organization with knowledge and understanding of planning principles and practices, including enforcement of land use regulations, zoning, and subdivision administration.
• Demonstrated ability to effectively and successfully deal with various levels of government, businesses, organizations, and the public pertaining to design, planning, and permitting activities.
• Ability to positively interact with community leaders, government agencies, and elected officials to interpret information, explain and justify recommendations, facilitate dialogue, and resolve issues.
• Ability to be a collaborative decision-maker, including creating an atmosphere of cooperation with a diverse group, and working through complex situations effectively.
• Demonstrated professional handling of diverse interests relating to housing, commercial and residential development, community and environment, and private property.
• Demonstrated ability to handle politically sensitive issues and keep confidentiality.
• Knowledge of the principles and practices of planning, architecture, engineering, and design. Ability to read and interpret development plans and drawings.
• Experience in developing strategies and policies to address sustainable development and quality of life issues in a large community.
• Ability to work on plans and objectives, identify problems, and make changes as required. Ability to communicate clearly and effectively both orally and written and effectively make presentations to committees, boards, and executive management and administration.

Membership in the American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) is desired.

All employees hired after September 1, 1986, must be residents of Shelby County and shall continue to reside in the County as a condition of their…