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Position: Director of Development
Type of Position: Full-time
Salary/Pay Rate: $85,000- $100,000
POSITION SUMMARY
Reporting to the Township Manager, the Director of Development is primarily responsible formanaging, overseeing, planning, and organizing the implementation of projects, administering community development activities, and coordinating the implementation of all development activities within the Township.
The Director of Development will be responsible for zoning administration and ensuring all construction activities comply with zoning and subdivision ordinances.
The Director of Development will work closely and collaboratively with the Director of Planning to ensure that the Community Development departmental goals are strategically aligned, and all projects are completed according to the Township’s vision.
This position is classified as an exempt/salaried position in accordance with the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA).
ESSENTIAL DUTIES + RESPONSIBILITIES
Comprehensive & Long-Range Planning
- Support long-range planning goals through implementation of development approvals, ensuring projects align with the Township’s comprehensive vision.
Zoning Administration
- Ensure that approved plans and construction activities comply with zoning and
subdivision conditions. - Administer and enforce zoning and subdivision ordinances.
- Serve as the Township Zoning Officer.
- Interpret ordinances, prepare amendments, and ensure compliance with the PA Municipalities Planning Code (MPC)
Land Development Review & Management
- Oversee day-to-day management of approved projects, including permit tracking, construction scheduling, and field coordination.
- Coordinate Planning Commission reviews, track escrows, and manage technical compliance.
- Present development status reports to the Planning Commission and Board of
Commissioners.
Building & Construction Oversight
- Direct and manage the building permitting process.
- Supervise inspection staff; ensure grading, stormwater, and impervious coverage limits are met before occupancy approvals.
- Oversee compliance with conditions of approval throughout construction
Public Engagement & Communication
- Serve as point of contact for developers, contractors, and residents on active projects.
- Provide clear communication on permitting procedures, inspection requirements, and development timelines
Interagency Coordination
- Coordinate with engineering, code enforcement, and public works to ensure seamless project execution and permit compliance.
Innovation & Technology - Manage daily use of technology tools, including permitting software, inspection scheduling, and digital workflow systems.
- Ensure consistent data entry throughout the land development and permitting process.
Data & Mapping / GIS Oversight - Manage the use of GIS system on a day-to-day basis.
- Utilize GIS and digital tools for tracking permits, construction progress, and compliance verification.
Budget & Staff Management - Prepare and manage Development Department budgets.
- Supervise permitting and inspection staff; oversee consultant contracts related to construction and compliance.
Strategic Leadership & Policy - Support implementation of the Township’s strategic growth and infrastructure plans.
- Provide technical insight for capital projects, construction scheduling, and resource allocation
Knowledge/Qualifications
Qualifications are representative of the knowledge, skills and/or abilities required for the position.
Thorough knowledge of Township ordinances and State laws dealing with all related
community development, zoning, code enforcement and planning
Proficient in computer operations: Word, Excel, Outlook (experience with Munis
preferred). Ability to learn new technical systems as needed.
Strong organizational, supervisory and leadership skills and ability to lead an effective
team successfully
Strong communication skills and the ability to understand, follow and convey complex
oral and written information
Ability to administer and plan budget related items
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with Township
departments and public
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
Education, Experience, Certifications
- Bachelor’s degree in public administration, urban planning, architecture, economics or a related field is required.
- Master’s Degree in a relevant field is preferred.
- A minimum of at least seven (7) years of experience in planning, community
development or related field. - At least three (3) years of service shall have been in a supervisory capacity.
Physical Demands:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this job, an employee is regularly required to talk and hear; use hands or fingers to handle and feel; and frequent use of the telephone and computer while communicating with internal and external customers; requires manual dexterity and visual acuity to operate personal computer or other standard office equipment, job site inspections and investigations.
Employee may sit for several hours each day but will also need mobility and ability to stand and walk continuously for long periods of time. Employee may seldom lift, push, or pull up to 50-100 pounds.
Work Environment:
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.
The work area will encompass a wide variety of settings including administrative duties in an office setting; occasionally works outside, in poor weather conditions, in hazardous traffic areas, in and around structures that may be hazardous and/or unstable.
Equal Opportunity Employer
South Whitehall Township is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, gender identity or sexual orientation.