Community Development Director

Employer
McDuffie County Board of Commissioners
Thomson, Georgia

Description
The County is seeking an experienced, forward-thinking Community Development Director to lead a multifaceted department responsible for planning, zoning, permitting, building inspections, code enforcement, and long-range community development initiatives. This highly responsible, professional administrative position directs departmental operations and serves as the administrative arm of the Planning Commission.

The Director is responsible for interpreting and applying federal regulations, state laws, and local ordinances, while ensuring fair, consistent, and lawful administration of all development-related programs. This role requires strong leadership, technical expertise, and the ability to manage complex, high-impact development issues that shape the long-term growth and character of the community.

Responsibilities:

The Community Development Director oversees and manages all operations of the Community Development Department, including planning, zoning, permitting, building inspections, and code enforcement, while supervising, training, and supporting departmental staff and ensuring the effective implementation of policies, procedures, and regulatory documents. The Director provides technical guidance on correspondence and regulatory interpretations; oversees permitting functions and reviews plats, zoning applications, site plans, and construction documents for compliance; and serves as the Zoning Director for both County and City jurisdictions, maintaining zoning maps and development standards. The position prepares and presents staff reports to the Planning Commission, Board of Commissioners, and City Council; directs the work of the Historic Preservation Commission; and represents the County at public meetings and hearings. Additional responsibilities include oversight of plan review, building inspections, and enforcement of Georgia Building Codes; leadership of code enforcement activities; budget preparation and financial management; and administration of key programs such as FEMA Floodplain Management, road abandonment procedures, and environmental compliance for underground storage tanks, ensuring full compliance with applicable federal, state, and local regulations.

The ideal candidate will be professional and well versed in many facets of planning and zoning to support a growing community. The Director will have five (5) direct reports with plans to grow in the future. The new director will be lead in updating our code of ordinances, creating new overlay districts, and streamlining processes. This position reports to the County Manager.

Job Requirements

• Minimum Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Planning, Business Administration, Public Administration, or a related field.
• Four to six years of supervisory experience in planning, permitting, development administration, or a related regulatory field. Valid driver’s license.
• Preferred Qualifications Master’s degree, Professional Engineer (PE) license, or AICP certification.
• Strong conflict-resolution, communication, and public-relations skills.

Salary Range
This position will begin at $85,000 – $90,000 and increase with experience, education, professional licenses, and certifications.

Benefits
McDuffie County offers health care with vision and dental plans, life insurance, retirement plan, and YMCA membership.

How to Apply
Interested applicants should submit a resume, cover letter, and completed application to the McDuffie County HR Office. Applications can be mailed to McDuffie County, Attn: Human Resources or hand delivered to 210 Railroad Street, Administration Building 2nd Floor, Thomson, GA 30824 or emailed to Ruthie Thomas or visit the website for an application.

Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.

Deadline
01/31/2026