City of Lowell, Department of Planning and Development

SUMMARY
As a senior manager, oversees the project review, permitting, zoning, and code enforcement functions of the newly consolidated Department of Planning and Development.  Develops and implements programs and policies to streamline economic development permitting, enhance customer service for project applicants and interested members of the public, coordinate code enforcement activities, administer and author land-use, building, conservation, housing, sanitary, and historic regulations and policies consistent with the City of Lowell Comprehensive Master Plan and various topical and neighborhood plans.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Manages project review, code enforcement, and permitting staff of the DPD.  Develops and implements sound personnel policies and practices which result in accountability, transparency, efficiency, positive customer service, and motivated employees.  Tracks and recommends appropriate training for staff.

Coordinates all permitting functions within DPD, including zoning, building, plumbing/gas, electrical, health, housing, sanitary, conservation, historic, energy, weights & measures, and expedited economic development permitting.

Working closely with the City’s MIS Department and data analyst, develops and implements operational systems and procedures to effectively track and document all development services activities, public input, and outcomes.

Manages the development and implementation of goals and objectives for development activities, consistent with the City’s Master Plan.

Promotes the integration and coordination of community development, planning, regulatory, code enforcement, and economic development activities within the DPD.

Provides guidance and leadership for master planning, neighborhood planning, zoning, and sustainability initiatives.

Coordinates with Department Heads and other officials involved in reviewing and permitting development projects to incorporate related functions not directly housed in the DPD into a transparent and customer-friendly streamlined permit process.

Develops and implements policies and procedures for the integration of development project review in conjunction with the chairs, members, and staff of the Planning Board, Zoning Board of Appeals, Conservation Commission, and Historic Board.

Ensures the fair, consistent application, interpretation, and enforcement of applicable codes and regulations.

Ensures that the web page information is consumer-friendly, readable, and up-to-date.

Monitors the annual budget on at least a monthly basis.  Provides input to the DPD Director on the status of expenses and revenues.

Reviews fee revenues on at least a monthly basis.  Periodically, performs a comparison of fees with other entities and makes recommendations to the DPD Director regarding any changes.

Oversees the maintenance of records.  Ensures that records are thorough, filed properly and timely, and safe. Reviews and revises forms as needed so that forms are numbered, consistent, readable, and consumer-friendly.

Attends meetings as required, including night meetings.

Performs special assignments as required by the Assistant City Manager/Director.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES
Manages all project review, permitting and code enforcement staff and consultants.  Direct reports will include but not be limited to: Building Commissioner, Associate Planner, Historic Board Administrator, Neighborhood Planner, and Office Manager.  Carries out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the organization’s policies and applicable laws.  Responsibilities include interviewing, and training employee(s); assigning and managing staff workloads, addressing complaints and resolving problems.  May supervise professional consultants.

QUALIFICATIONS
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Education and/or Experience
(A)    Master’s Degree in Public Administration, Public Affairs, Business, Political Science, Planning, Urban Studies, or equivalent;
(B)    Substantial experience (5-8 years) with municipal personnel, operations, and systems management, as well as municipal permitting and development review desired;
(C)    Direct experience with and knowledge of urban planning and design, new urbanism, construction, and real estate development strongly desired;
(D)    Or equivalent combination of education and experience.
(E)    Valid driver’s license required.

$78,123-82,479 DOE A full benefit package including medical, dental, life; generous leave benefits and retirement plan available. Please forward resume with cover letter to: Human Relations Office, 375 Merrimack St, Lowell, MA 01852.  Review of applications will begin on June 30, 2010; or email:  cityjobs@lowellma.gov or Fax: 978-446-7102.  The City of Lowell is an EOE/AA/504 Employer that requires physical, drug screen and CORI, post offer.

posted 6/17/2010