Salary: $113,326.00 - $130,325.00 Annually
Location : 107 N Kent. St., Winchester, VA
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 00730
Department: PLANNING
Opening Date: 07/22/2026

Description
The County is seeking an experienced planning professional to help lead current and long-range planning, zoning administration, and transportation initiatives. Reporting to the Director of Planning and Development, this position oversees key planning programs, supervises staff, and collaborates with County departments, community partners, and regional agencies to implement strategic planning initiatives and Board priorities. The ideal candidate is a collaborative leader with strong technical expertise, a commitment to exceptional customer service, and a passion for fostering a professional, solutions-oriented team culture.

What You'll Do:

As an Assistant Planning Director, you will:

• Assist the Planning Director in the overall administration, strategic planning, operational management, and budgeting of the Planning Department.
• Provide exceptional customer service by responding to complex inquiries, resolving planning issues, and assisting citizens, applicants, developers, and public officials.
• Participates in various development reviews and pre-development meetings to provide information and guidance applicable to the County's Development goals, objectives, and initiatives.
• Prepares reports and staff recommendations on the likely impacts of rezoning applications and presents these reports to the Planning Commission and Board of Supervisors.
• Responds to inquiries from the public and elected and appointed officials regarding planning activities.
• Coordinates with state and local agencies on planning issues.
• Prepares presentations and interacts with citizens and citizen groups to facilitate public input and provide information.
• Provides project management and coordination for assigned projects.
• Monitors proposed federal and statewide policy initiatives affecting planning and development activities in the County.
• Attends and presents at meetings of the Planning Commission, Board of Supervisors, and various committees.
• Staffs the assigned committees.
• Assists in the development and implementation of the County's comprehensive planning initiatives, strategic planning efforts, and long-range land use policies.
• Supervises department staff as assigned by the Planning Director.
• Performs related duties as assigned.

What We're Looking For:

• Possess a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in urban and regional planning, transportation, community development, public administration, or a related field; a master's degree is preferred.
• Minimum of six (6) years of progressively responsible professional experience in urban planning, transportation planning, community development, zoning administration, or related planning disciplines, including project management and supervisory experience.
• Must possess a valid driver's license.
• American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) certification is highly desired.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, GIS, permitting systems, and planning-related software as applicable.

Supplemental Information
Physical Demands: This position primarily performs office-based work and requires light physical activity, including sitting for extended periods, standing, walking, bending, reaching, and occasional lifting of up to 30 pounds. The ability to communicate effectively, hear conversations, and use a computer to prepare and review documents is required. Work is performed in a typical office environment with a moderate noise level.

Work Environment: Work is performed primarily in a heated and air-conditioned office. Occasional outdoor work may be required, with exposure to varying weather conditions, including heat, cold, humidity, and other seasonal elements.

To learn more aboutFrederick County, Virginia employee benefits, please visit the following webpage:

There are a wide variety of benefits available to Frederick County employees. These benefits include: health, dental, vision, life insurance, optional life and disability plans, flexible spending account for health care, dependent care assistance program, an employee assistance program and a deferred compensation program.

Please click to view our Frederick County Employee Benefits information page with full details on all insurance plans offered.