Zoning Administrator

Fairfax County is one of the largest jurisdictions in the Commonwealth of Virginia with more than 1.1 million people, and is strategically located near the federal government in neighboring Washington, D.C. Our vibrant community boasts excellent schools, award-winning parks, a highly educated workforce and a quality of life that makes the county a highly desirable location to live and work. The Department of Planning and Development (DPD) is shaping the landscape of Fairfax County by promoting equitable, livable and sustainable communities for present and future generations. At DPD we value meaningful work, diversity, innovative approaches, and thrive in a highly collaborative team environment.

DPD is seeking an individual with extensive experience in zoning administration to serve as the Zoning Administrator for Fairfax County and the Director of the Zoning Administration Division (ZAD). This position is highly public with regular, direct interaction with the Board of Supervisors, other county staff, and the public, and must communicate effectively, authoritatively, and with appropriate respect for all. As the Zoning Administrator, this position is appointed by and answerable to the Board of Supervisors and has unique responsibilities that fall outside of and are not directed by the county's administration but are decisions vested solely to the position, appealable only to the Board of Zoning Appeals. The Zoning Administrator/Director has the responsibility to ensure that land use and development occurs in accordance with the Zoning Ordinance; that the integrity of the Ordinance is upheld; and that provisions of the Ordinance may be amended to continue to support the public's health, safety and welfare. This position provides oversight and direction for a team of 38 professional planners and support staff.

Responsibilities include oversight of the work of the division, including the management, interpretation and amending of the county's Zoning Ordinance; issuance of certain zoning permits and zoning approvals for various land development permits; appeals of Zoning Ordinance determinations; and administration and enforcement of the Noise Ordinance. This position is also the legal authority responsible for certain duties, i.e. zoning land use application acceptance, review and interpretation and zoning enforcement, which have been delegated to other county staff. Has direct supervision of two assistant division directors managing the Ordinance Administration and Zoning Permits Sections. Serves as member of departmental management team. Works directly with and presents to county senior management, the Planning Commission, and the Board of Supervisors on issues related to the Zoning Ordinance and other areas of responsibility. Ensures accurate and consistent application of policies and regulations. Strives for continuous improvements and efficiencies in organization. Represents Department on various teams and special projects. Works with county boards, authorities and commissions, task forces and citizen advisory groups on a variety of issues. Performs other duties as assigned.

Note: In accordance with current Fairfax County telework and personnel policies, this position is eligible for partial telework. Telework enrollment and continuance are subject to supervisor approval and county policy.

Thorough knowledge of State and local zoning ordinance and regulations;
Demonstrated ability to plan and supervise the zoning work of professional and technical subordinates;
Ability to administer, interpret and amends necessary the provisions of the Zoning Ordinance;
Ability to use sound judgment in making independent decisions;
Ability to coordinate the preparation of comprehensive, technical zoning reports;
Ability to direct the collection, analysis and preparation of data in support of pending court actions;
Ability to write and speak effectively;
Ability to develop program objectives and meet deadlines;
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with the public, elected officials and subordinates.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Any combination of education, experience, and training equivalent to the following: (Click on the aforementioned link to learn how Fairfax County interprets equivalencies for "Any combination, experience, and training equivalent to")
Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with a degree in planning or a closely related field; plus five years of progressively responsible professional experience in the planning field, to include three years of responsible supervisory, zoning administration experience in a large urban community. A Master's degree may be substituted for one year of the required experience.

NECESSARY SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:
The appointee to this position will be required to complete a criminal background check and credit check to the satisfaction of the employer.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Six (6) years of senior level management experience in land use and zoning.
• Six (6) years of managerial/supervisory experience of both professional and technical staff.
• Demonstrated knowledge and experience with Virginia Planning and Zoning enabling legislation.
• Experience in preparation of written determinations, preparation and delivery of presentations to elected and appointed officials, and experience providing expert testimony in court.
• Experience in maintaining effective and cooperative working relationships with local officials, other county staff, the public, and the development community.
• Experience with equity issues, particularly as related to development and land use.
• American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) certification.
• Strong written and oral communication skills.

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