Planning Director

City of Auburn Auburn, ME United States Join Our Team: Planning Director The City of Auburn is seeking a visionary and dynamic Planning Director to lead our Planning Department in alignment with Auburn’s Core Values. This top-tier management role offers the opportunity to shape Auburn’s future through strategic planning and leadership. If you're passionate about urban development, agriculture, quality of life and industry and thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative environment, we want to hear from you! Key Responsibilities Lead all planning operations and initiatives with autonomy and purpose. Recruit, manage, and evaluate professional and administrative staff. Develop and execute department goals, policies, and procedures. Prepare and manage the department’s operational budget. Collaborate with the Planning Board, City Council, and citywide teams on long-range planning, zoning ordinance development and implementation, capital improvements, and acquisitions. Deliver expert analyses and reports to the City Manager and Council. Stay ahead of trends in planning, zoning, and legal developments. Pursue and manage planning-related grants. Represent Auburn on regional and local boards. Oversee public meetings and hearings, including those for State Delegated Traffic, Site Law, and Stormwater Permitting. Expertise & Skills Deep knowledge of planning theory, development processes, and relevant laws. Skilled in personnel management, budgeting, research, and analysis. Proficient in Microsoft Office, GIS, and database tools. Experience with land use ordinance application and compliance. Exceptional leadership, communication, and negotiation abilities. Strategic thinker with strong judgment and political acumen. Collaborative spirit with a commitment to Auburn’s mission and values. Qualifications Master’s degree in urban planning, public administration, or related field. Minimum 6 years of progressive planning experience, including 4 years in a supervisory role. AICP Certification preferred. Candidates with exceptional experience may substitute education requirements. Ready to make a lasting impact on Auburn’s future? Apply today and become a key player in our city’s growth and success! Benefits The City of Auburn offers an attractive and competitive benefits package including low-cost health insurance, dental and vision insurance, pet insurance, life insurance, a retirement choice of a 401 or a MainePERS pension plan, vacation, sick time and parental leave, disability insurance, and a robust wellness program. Auburn is a qualified employer for the Public Student Loan Forgiveness program. Salary range for this position is $45.72 to $63.88 and is dependent upon experience and qualifications. Join Us in Auburn! We are a growing city with a bold vision. If you're looking to help shape a vibrant future and high quality of life in Auburn, we want to hear from you. Apply today and be part of something bigger. Experience Level AICP Level Specialty Salary Range Experience Level Mid II (4-8 years) AICP Level Preferred Specialty Land Use and Development Regulation and Zoning Salary Range $45.72 to $63.88 per hour Contact Information Eric Cousens Resource URL https://www.auburnmaine.gov/departments/human_resources/employment.php Email ecousens@auburnmaine.gov