ASSISTANT DIRECTOR PLANNING & GIS DEPARTMENT

Montgomery County, VA has a full-time opening for an Assistant Director within the Planning & GIS Services Department. Reporting to the Director, this position is responsible for leading all aspects of the Comprehensive Plan and other long-range planning initiatives.  The Assistant Director also performs case management, evaluation, analysis and processing of complex land use applications.  The position will prepare and present planning related studies and technical reports, conduct research, lead special projects, and maintain various planning maps and records.  The Assistant Director will be responsible for managing and providing oversight to planning staff.  This position coordinates and facilitates numerous meetings, work sessions, and events with citizens, community groups, and boards and committees. 

Bachelor’s degree in Planning, Urban Development, Civil Engineering, or a closely related field is required. Five years of professional planning experience and supervisory experience preferred; a combination of education, experience, and professional training may be considered in lieu of experience. Preference given for American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) accreditation.

The ideal candidate will demonstrate strong written and verbal communication skills, including public speaking and presentation abilities. Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a collaborative team environment. Excellent attention to detail and ability to manage multiple assignments with a high level of accuracy. Working knowledge of land use principles, zoning regulations, development review processes, and local government operations. Strong customer service skills and the ability to positively interact with a diverse range of stakeholders.

Typical work hours are Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM. This position requires periodic evening meeting attendance (generally two evenings per month) to support Planning Commission meetings and community outreach efforts. Salary range $80,830-129,329; dependent on qualifications and experience, plus excellent benefits (health, dental and vision, flex spending, life, disability, VRS retirement, 401 & 457 retirement options, onsite clinic, wellness programs, and much more). This position is open until filled, with first review of applications beginning on November 10, 2026.  To request an application accommodation for disabilities, contact Human Resources at 540-394-2007.

Montgomery County, VA, is committed to the principles of diversity and, in that spirit, seeks a broad spectrum of candidates, including women, minorities, persons with disabilities, and veterans. As an Equal Opportunity Employer and certified Virginia Values Veterans (V3) organization, we are dedicated to nondiscrimination in recruitment, selection, hiring, pay, promotion, retention, or other personnel action affecting employees or candidates for employment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex/sexual orientation/gender/identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.