Director of Planning & Zoning
Town of Cape Charles
Town of Cape Charles, VA United States
The Town of Cape Charles, Virginia is seeking an experienced professional to serve as the Director of Planning & Zoning. The successful candidate will be committed to preserving Cape Charles’ unique character while helping guide thoughtful, sustainable growth that benefits both current and future generations. Reporting directly to the Town Manager, the candidate will also serve as a member of the Town’s leadership team responsible for directing services, programs, and operations of the Planning & Zoning Department. The Director will provide guidance and supervision of employees, prepare the departmental budget, and provide leadership for a highly visible function within the Town’s government.
The following education and experience factors outline the qualifications for successful performance:
• Minimum of five (5) years of professional municipal planning experience, with demonstrated leadership experience in an organization with comparable size/scope of responsibility, possessing a broad skill set appropriate to the breadth of the Town’s planning and zoning operations
• An undergraduate degree, with a preferred concentration in Urban Planning, Public Administration, Public Policy or a related field; A Master’s degree in Urban Planning or a related discipline, while not required, is strongly preferred
• Experience leading teams in a supervisory or director role is desired
• Strong knowledge of Virginia planning and zoning laws and processes
• Certifications related to zoning/planning such as Certified Zoning Administrator (CZA), Certified Zoning Official (CZO), American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP), Certified Floodplain Manager (CFM) preferred, or must be willing to pursue certification if not currently held
• Any combination of education and experience that qualifies an applicant may be considered in lieu of the criteria listed above
Compensation for the Director of Planning & Zoning is within the hiring range of $76,700 - $92,000 annually, dependent upon qualifications and experience. The successful candidate will be provided with the Town’s benefits package including participation in the Virginia Retirement System (VRS), health/dental/vision insurance, paid time off (PTO), paid holiday leave, professional development and training, life insurance, and other benefits provided for all Town employees. Relocation assistance may be available.
Qualified candidates are encouraged to submit a cover letter, resume, writing sample and professional references to the Berkley Group via email to Jenelle.Richards@bgllc.net. While the position is open until filled, review of candidates will begin on or around July 20, 2026; however, highly qualified candidates may be invited for an interview at any time.