Chief Environmental Planning (Perm/FT/Benefits)

This position provides advanced-level leadership and oversight of comprehensive land use and environmental planning programs within the County. The role manages key regulatory and planning initiatives including water source protection, floodplain management, Chesapeake Bay Critical Area, and forest conservation programs, while also supporting master planning, zoning code development, and environmental policy implementation.

The position supervises professional planning staff, coordinates interdepartmental and external stakeholder efforts, and ensures compliance with local, state, and federal regulations. Responsibilities include managing planning studies, GIS data analysis, budget support, public engagement, and the preparation of reports, maps, and policy recommendations. The role also represents the County in meetings and workgroups, supports recruitment and personnel decisions, and helps guide strategic planning initiatives aligned with long-term community goals.

Job Description:

Salary Range: $70,276.00-$161,328.00

BUDGETED SALARY: $75,000.00-$85,000.00

Essential Duties:

(The following examples illustrate the work performed in the positions in the class. Positions may require some or all of these examples, depending on the organization of work within the department. The list is not inclusive. A position may require duties not listed, if necessary, to accomplish the work of the department.)

• Oversee the implementation of the Water Source Protection District regulations
• Oversee and manage Chapter 131 Floodplain Management Program
• Oversee the Chesapeake Bay Critical Area program (manage Critical Area planner)
• Oversee the Forest and Tree Conservation laws (manage Forest Conservation manager)
• Assist in managing the Department’s main tasks (Master Plan development, Comprehensive Zoning)
• Assist in developing legislative Zoning Code changes or initiatives
• Oversee the management of the County’s Environmental Advisory Board
• Supports the preparation of annual budget and assists with the management of budgets, ensuring cost control and expenses are in alignment with budget
• Tracks and implements strategies contained in the County Master Plan
• Conducts field studies and surveys to collect original data for planning studies and projects
• Prepares and conducts the work program in the collection, creation, and analyses of GIS data, disseminates products such as maps and other tabular data
• Disseminate information via online formats, ensure that online offerings are current and consistent on all platforms (e.g. County website, social media, etc.)
• Prepares maps, charts, manuals, and brochures for planning and planning-related matters
• Participates in meetings with government agencies, civic organizations and other groups, representing the department
• Collaborates with Human Resources to develop recruitment plans based on labor needs, participates in internal and external job candidate selection, including screening, conducting interviews, testing, and onboarding
• Supports hiring/promotional decisions, ensuring compliance with all related policies and regulations
• Provides assistance to the public regarding matters relating to permitting, zoning/subdivision code and department policies and processes
• Provide oversight and review of all development plans as it relates to County environmental regulations
• Prepares and conducts studies, performs research and provides analysis for projects relating to land use, zoning, environmental planning, community development, historic preservation or transportation planning, leverages and references demographic, socio-economic, cultural, geographic and land use trends in research and recommendations
• Prepares and publishes reports by documenting data collection, problem analyses, identification of goals and objectives, analyses of alternatives and ways to meet the goals and objectives of planning and planning-related matters
• Represent the County at federal, state, or local workgroups and meetings

Years of Experience and Education:

Master's degree from an accredited college or university in planning or a related field AND six (6) years of professional planning experience
OR
Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in planning or a related field AND nine (9) years planned related experience

Years of Supervisory Experience:
2 years of experience leading or managing teams

Certifications, Licensures, and Examinations:

A valid Class "C" non-commercial driver's license with no more than three (3) points. Please be advised that this position requires a valid driver's license.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Advanced knowledge of planning principles and practices; understanding of social, economic, and environmental factors affecting planning
• Advanced knowledge of regional, state, and/or federal programs affecting local planning decisions.
• Ability to effectively supervise and direct the work of others
• Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing
• Ability to organize information and produce reports clearly and concisely
• Ability to enter data, maintain records, and research archival information on various formats
• Ability to accurately compile and maintain financial and statistical records, fiscal reports, and various other forms and applications.
• Ability to devise and implement thoughtful solutions to complex problems.
• Ability to thrive in a team environment, and foster and maintain harmonious working relationships with co-workers and external stakeholders
• Ability to evaluate issues and communicate sound recommendations on appropriate action
• Advanced knowledge of planning principles and practices; understanding of social, economic, and environmental factors affecting planning
• Advanced knowledge of regional, state, and/or federal programs affecting local planning decisions
• Advanced knowledge of research methods and techniques; experience producing, collecting, and analyzing data
• Knowledge of statistical analysis with emphasis on demographic and/or economic data; ability to interpret and draw conclusions from data analysis
• Ability to work independently on complex planning-related matters
• Ability to exercise independent judgment and initiative in managing Community Rating System (CRS) programs and other similar initiatives
• Capable of evaluating issues and communicating sound recommendations on appropriate action
• Understanding of applicable local, regional, state, and federal programs and regulations
• Experience leading a team or group in the implementation of a project or program
• Experience managing work plans and setting group and individual goals
• Experience conducting performance or work product reviews
• Capable of exercising independent judgment and initiative in managing the Community Rating System (CRS) programs and other similar initiatives
• Ability to coordinate, lead, and/or chair public meetings

Safety:

Must comply with all Federal (OSHA), State of Maryland (MOSH), safety regulations and applicable Harford County safety policies, procedures, or manuals as required for this position.

Compensation:
Other compensation may include, but is not limited to:

• Overtime

• Compensatory time

• Shift Differentials

Benefits:

Harford County offers an exceptional benefits package that includes:

• Health, Dental & Vision insurance

• Flexible Spending Accounts 

• State Retirement Plan and Deferred Compensation 

• Long Term Disability, and Life Insurance for Employee, Spouse, and Children

• Generous Leave Package & Paid Holidays

• Tuition Reimbursement