Why Team Garland?

At the City of Garland, we believe that a career in public service is not just a job; it's a calling. It's an opportunity to serve others, make a lasting impact, and be part of meaningful projects that shape every aspect of city life.

Team Garland is dedicated to building the stage where the residents of Garland can each live their best life!

Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting your career, we offer professional growth opportunities and a supportive work environment that helps you reach your full potential. As a member of Team Garland, your skills and ideas are valued; we offer competitive salaries, comprehensive benefits*, wellness programs, and a healthy work-life balance.

If you are ready for a career that makes a difference, apply today!

*Benefits offered are subject to change and differ based on employment type

Summary

Responsible for directing the City's Planning and Community Development Department functions and recognized as the principal planning and development expert in the organization.

Salary: Depending on qualifications and experience

Click here to view the recruitment brochure.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Direct administration of the development process, comprehensive and neighborhood planning.

• Develop, implement, and update the City's Comprehensive Plan, including monitoring progress, tracking performance metrics, and adjusting strategies as needed to achieve plan objectives.

• Create planning documents, policy reports, ordinance amendments and presentation materials.

• Provide support for and counsel to the City Plan Commission, City Council, and advisory committees.

• Work collaboratively with Economic Development, business associations, and/or local stakeholders to identify opportunities for business expansion and retention.

• Lead the development and implementation of comprehensive long-range planning initiatives, including master plans, strategic plans, and growth management strategies.

• Utilize Geographic Information Systems (GIS) technology to support planning efforts, spatial analysis, and data visualization for informed decision-making.

• Foster collaboration and coordination with Engineering, Building Inspections, Transportation, and other relevant departments to streamline development processes and ensure compliance with regulations.

• Collaborate with housing agencies, developers, nonprofit organizations, and other stakeholders to support the production of affordable housing and promote equitable housing opportunities.

• Provide oversight to all projects and assignments under the Department's purview.

• Oversee department and program budget preparation and approve expenditures.

• Remain abreast of new developments in Federal, State, and local laws and regulations.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in Urban Planning, Public Administration, or related field of study

• Eight or more years of progressively responsible experience in municipal planning, economic development, and/or housing initiatives.

• At least five years of management experience at a department head level or higher

• American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) certification preferred

Or an equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential functions of the job.

Preferred Qualifications

Education/ Experience:

• Master's Degree in Urban Planning or related field of study

• 10+ years experience in long-range planning, economic development, comprehension plan implementation, GIS, and housing.

• 5+ years of management experience in urban planning
  

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

• Extensive knowledge of urban planning and general practices

• Extensive knowledge of Federal, State and local laws and regulations as they apply to planning and development

• Skill in Microsoft Office (Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, Word)

• Ability to build and maintain relationships with government officials, agencies, and key stakeholders

• Exceptional verbal and written communication skills, including public speaking

• Demonstrated ability to conceptualize and implement placemaking initiatives aimed at creating vibrant, livable, and sustainable communities through thoughtful design and community engagement.

• Skill in leading redevelopment projects and promoting adaptive reuse of existing structures to revitalize neighborhoods and preserve historical assets.

• Skill in developing and implementing streamlined plan review processes that align with the city's overall goals, ensuring timely approvals while maintaining regulatory compliance.

• Ability to mentor and develop staff members through training, coaching, and creating clear career pathways, fostering a supportive and growth-oriented work environment.

• Demonstrated visionary leadership skills to inspire and motivate teams, set strategic direction, and drive innovation in planning and development initiatives.

• Active involvement and deep understanding of community development concepts, including equitable development, affordable housing strategies, and community engagement methodologies.

• Skill in developing and implementing catalyst area plans or small area plans to guide development and revitalization efforts in targeted neighborhoods or districts.

• Proficiency in preparing and delivering compelling presentations to Planning and Zoning commissions, City Council, and other stakeholders, effectively communicating complex planning concepts and project proposals.

Licenses and Certifications

American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) certification preferred

Valid Class C Texas driver's license

Physical Requirements / Work Environment

The incumbent works in a typical office environment; relatively free from unpleasant environmental conditions or hazards.

About Us

Team Garland consists of over 2,200 employees, spanning 700+ different roles! Garland is committed to diversity and inclusion and creating pathways to employment for all. We have an organizational culture of appreciation, development, and growth. Many of our employees choose Garland for lifelong careers. We are guided by the City's Mission, Vision, and Value Statements and a commitment to public service. Team Garland makes a difference in the Garland community every day.

Garland's vision is to be a progressive city working together to nurture and grow the economic, social, environmental, and cultural well-being of our community.

We are committed to preserve public trust, deliver quality services, promote economic growth, protect our community and enhance the quality of life for the good of our city and our future.