The Village of New Lenox is seeking a visionary Community Development Director to help guide a community experiencing significant residential, commercial, and infrastructure growth. This is a unique opportunity to lead a dynamic department responsible for planning, zoning, economic development, engineering programs, and building services.

New Lenox continues to attract new housing developments, expanding business investment, and major infrastructure improvements while maintaining the high quality of life that has made it one of the most desirable communities in the southwest suburbs. The Community Development team sits at the center of these opportunities, helping shape everything from new neighborhoods and commercial corridors to long-term economic development strategies and capital improvement projects.

We're seeking a Community Development Director who is equal parts strategist, collaborator, and problem-solver. If you are a leader who is energized by growth and understands how to turn opportunity into development that benefits residents, businesses, and future generations, this is an ideal role for you.

Position: Community Development Director
Status: Full Time
Grade: 16
Hours: Mon – Fri 8:30 am to 5:00 pm
Reports to: Village Administrator
Pay Range: $142,334 to $185,034

PRIMARY JOB FUNCTION
Perform a variety of complex administrative, supervisory and professional work in planning and development, coordinating and directing the activities of a multi-functional department engaged in such diverse activities as planning, zoning administration, economic development, engineering programs and building permits and inspections.

MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Plans, coordinates, directs, and supervises department programs and activities including the reviews, plans, and specifications conducted by staff of major commercial, industrial and residential developments, office and manufacturing developments, transportation related projects, and consultant studies and plans; confers with supervisory personnel on activities; submits reports to Village Administrator; performs field work as necessary.
Interprets and administers Village policies and develops and implements appropriate department rules, regulations, and policies; establishes record keeping procedures, methods, and standard operating procedures; sets the vision for the Community Development Department.
Prepares a variety of studies, reports and related information for decision-making purposes.
Coordinates the effective procedural administration of Village planning and development matters through the Plan Commission, Zoning Board of Appeals and Village Board (and other Village Departments and outside agencies), including the processing and coordination of staff assistance for matters before these bodies.
Oversees economic development campaigns to promote current businesses and attract new businesses.
Prepares and administers department operating budget; develops short and long-range goals and plans for facilities and infrastructure improvements; coordinates all department activities to maximize effectiveness of equipment and personnel resources to meet the goals of the Village; develops strategic plans for infrastructure replacement programs; reviews and approves the requisition of equipment, materials, and supplies; approves department expenditures.
Coordinates with Public Works staff members in the design of public works or utility projects; oversees preparation of specifications and cost estimates; oversees preparation of bids and requests for proposals (RFP) for road, public works and utility projects, equipment, and/or consulting services; coordinates construction of projects.
Oversees the Capital Improvement Plan for public infrastructure including water, sewer, and roadway systems; schedules future capital projects in order of priority; generates cost estimates and anticipated means of financing; makes alterations to plan as necessary.
Oversees the development and maintenance of the Village’s computer-based land management software.
Supervises directly and/or through subordinate supervisors a staff of professional, technical, and administrative support employees; establishes and enforces rules and regulations; recommends appointment, promotion, discipline, and dismissal of personnel; prepares performance reviews; determines training requirements and employee development and implements programs.
Participates in and attends meetings of regional, state, and national planning, public works and engineering associations, and numerous community groups; serves as the Village’s liaison in matters pertaining to the Community Development Department.
Assesses public infrastructure needs of the community; investigates new methods, technologies, laws, and programs to strengthen and improve current levels of service; recommends new or revised programs and activities.
Prepares and reviews all compliance reporting documents for the department; facilitates compliance with all applicable federal, state and local regulations; reports and resolves instances of non-compliance.
Receives citizen complaints and requests; solves or assists in the solving of problems; responds to requests for information and assistance from citizens and outside agencies and organizations.
Performs related tasks or other duties as assigned.

DESIRED SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE, AND ABILITIES

(A) Thorough knowledge of zoning laws and comprehensive plans including their formation, process of adoption, and enforcement; extensive knowledge of planning programs and processes; knowledge of building codes and general engineering practices; working knowledge of personal computers and GIS applications;

(B) Skill in the area of drafting and designing; skill in the operation of the listed tools and equipment.

(C) Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing with consultants, architects, contractors, developers, owners, supervisors, employees, and the general public; ability to establish effective working relationships.

(D) Knowledge of the safety rules and regulations that are applicable within the department related to office equipment, disaster plan, and the process to handle residents and other guests during a natural disaster/fire. Responsible for complying with all Village safety rules and regulations, both written and verbal supervisory instructions.

DESIRED EDUCATION AND/OR WORK EXPERIENCE
Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with a Bachelor’s degree in urban or regional planning, architecture, construction science or related field, preferably supplemented by a graduate degree in urban/regional planning, construction science or related field; five years of progressive experience in planning, economic development, and community development including supervisory experience; or any equivalent combination of training and experience.

The Village of New Lenox is an equal opportunity employer. Village policy prohibits discrimination and harassment against any applicant or employee based on race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy or pregnancy-related medical conditions, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, citizenship, disability, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other basis protected by applicable law. In addition, the Village of New Lenox is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to applicants and employees in accordance with applicable law.