Principal Planner
Douglas County
Minden, NV United States
How to Apply
URL: https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/douglasconv/jobs/5449209/principal-planner?pagetype=jobOpportunitiesJobsJOB DESCRIPTION
Primary Objectives
Performs complex work under general direction of the Deputy Director of Community Development, responsible for supervising, coordinating and directing the County's planning and zoning functions; serving as liaison to the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency (TRPA), Towns, General Improvement Districts (GID), and other agencies in regard to development processes; performs related tasks as apparent or assigned.
Supervision Exercised
Supervision is exercised over assigned department personnel.
PRIMARY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
- Supervises and directs the activities of assigned staff; coordinates, prioritizes and assigns tasks and projects; tracks and reviews work progress and activities; assists with the recruitment and selection of staff; undertakes disciplinary action as required; conducts performance evaluations; ensures appropriate scheduling of staff to ensure proper operational coverage.
- Develops and implements goals, objectives, policies, procedures and work standards for the division.
- Receives and processes various applications such as; variances, rezoning, specific plan amendments, area plan amendments, master plan amendments, subdivision maps, annexations, special use permits, and regulation items.
- Develops and provides staff report and related materials for presentation on a proposed project to the County Planning Commission and the Board of County Commissioners.
- Provides technical and professional planning services to achieve consistent and controlled growth in the County; assures project plans are in conformance to County goals, and in compliance with local, state and Federal codes and regulations.
- Reviews and evaluates project designs, plans, technical documents for compliance with County standards and regulatory requirements; reviews land development proposals and planning and zoning changes; meets with and advises developers regarding development applications and processes; explains purposes, regulations and procedures of accepted development practices; suggests alternatives for an improved design.
- Answers inquiries and assists the public and other agencies in matters relating to planning, zoning and permit review, and other County standards and regulations; provides information within scope of authority; represents and speaks for the County at meetings and on various regional boards, groups and programs, such as the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency (TRPA); provides advice related to planning and development to the Board of Commissioners, the County Manager, County Planning Commission, and other County departments. Incumbent may sit as the County representative on the TRPA Advisory Planning Commission.
- Oversees the development review process, coordinating with team members from other divisions and departments; reviews and processes a variety of applications, permits and plans; reviews development plans with developers, builders, utility companies, and other County departments; provides reports and findings to the Deputy Director of Community Development; oversees the Genoa Historic District Commission; provides reports on planning, zoning and development matters for presentation to the County Planning Commission and County Board of Commissioners.
- Manages special projects as assigned; conducts research and analysis on permits, plans, rules and regulations; oversees the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG).
- Coordinates with various regional government organizations, community groups, and state and Federal agencies; attends public meetings and coordinates discussions on regional planning and zoning issues.
- Initiates, formulates, and recommends planning and development related ordinances, programs, policies, and plans relative to current and long range plans including County Master Plan updates, open space plans, and special studies on housing, population, transportation, and water; monitors and reviews trends in County and regional planning issues; researches and interprets laws, regulations, and general information.
- Contributes to the efficiency and effectiveness of the unit's service to its customers by offering suggestions and directing or participating as an active member of a work team.
- Represents the County with dignity, integrity, and a spirit of cooperation in all relationships with staff and the public.
- Contributes effectively to the accomplishment of team or work unit goals, objectives, and activities.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Bachelor's degree in Land Use Planning, Environmental Studies, Public Administration or a closely related field and five (5) years of experience in professional level planning; two (2) years of which were in a supervisory role; OR an equivalent combination of education, training and experience.
CERTIFICATIONS/LICENSES
American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) Certification preferred
Closing date: 10/17/2026
**Applications are reviewed regularly. Postings may close prior to the listed date. Individuals are encouraged to apply immediately.**

