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Director Sustainability Jobs in Decatur, GA (NOW HIRING)

Atlanta Hawks

Sustainability Coach

Atlanta, GA

The Sustainability Coach leads the sorting team and coordinates wastelogisticstomaintainthe arena ... This role ensures safe and efficient waste diversion by directing the sorting process, coordinating ...

Atlanta Hawks

Sustainability Coach

Atlanta, GA · On-site

The Sustainability Coach leads the sorting team and coordinates waste logistics to maintain the ... This role ensures safe and efficient waste diversion by directing the sorting process, coordinating ...

Honeywell

Program Director

Atlanta, GA · On-site

The Program Director, Strategic Partnership (NHL - Building Automation) will serve as the senior ... Familiarity with sustainable practices and modern infrastructure modernizationinitiatives.

Honeywell

Program Director

Atlanta, GA · On-site

The Program Director, Strategic Partnership (NHL - Building Automation) will serve as the senior ... Familiarity with sustainable practices and modern infrastructure modernization initiatives.

Honeywell

Program Director

Atlanta, GA

The Program Director, Strategic Partnership (NHL - Building Automation) will serve as the senior ... Familiarity with sustainable practices and modern infrastructure modernizationinitiatives.

Rayonier

Director of Communications

Atlanta, GA

As a direct report to the Senior Vice President, Chief Sustainability Officer, you will set the communication agenda, amplify our narrative as a leading land resources REIT, and build an inspired ...

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All JobsDirector Sustainability JobsDirector Sustainability Jobs in Decatur, GA

Director Sustainability information

See Decatur, GA salary details

$72.2K

$336.6K

$390.5K

How much do director sustainability jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for director sustainability in Decatur, GA is $336,583.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $274,300.00 and $390,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does a Director of Sustainability typically collaborate with other departments to drive organizational sustainability goals?

A Director of Sustainability works closely with a variety of departments such as operations, supply chain, marketing, and compliance to embed sustainable practices across the organization. This collaboration often involves leading cross-functional teams, setting measurable sustainability targets, and ensuring alignment with both business objectives and regulatory standards. Regular communication and training sessions with department heads help to foster a culture of sustainability and drive company-wide engagement. Additionally, Directors may coordinate with external stakeholders, such as vendors and community partners, to enhance sustainability initiatives.

What is the difference between Director Sustainability vs Sustainability Manager?

AspectDirector SustainabilitySustainability Manager
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Environmental Science, Business, or related field; often requires experience in leadership rolesBachelor's or Master's in Environmental Science, Sustainability, or related field; less emphasis on leadership experience
Work EnvironmentStrategic planning, executive meetings, cross-department collaborationProject management, team coordination, operational implementation
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in large corporations, NGOs, government agencies focusing on sustainability strategiesCommon in organizations implementing sustainability initiatives, often reporting to Directors

The main difference between a Director Sustainability and a Sustainability Manager lies in their scope and level of responsibility. Directors focus on strategic planning and leadership, while Managers handle day-to-day project execution. Both roles require relevant credentials and are integral to sustainability efforts within organizations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Director of Sustainability, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Director of Sustainability, you need expertise in environmental science, sustainability strategy, regulatory compliance, and typically an advanced degree in a related field. Familiarity with sustainability reporting frameworks (such as GRI or CDP), environmental management systems, and data analytics tools is important. Strong leadership, strategic thinking, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for influencing organizational change and engaging stakeholders. These skills enable the director to develop impactful sustainability initiatives, ensure regulatory compliance, and drive long-term business value.

What does a Director of Sustainability do?

A Director of Sustainability is responsible for developing, implementing, and overseeing an organization’s sustainability strategies and initiatives. This role involves ensuring that the company operates in an environmentally responsible manner while balancing economic and social considerations. Directors of Sustainability collaborate with various departments, advise leadership on sustainable practices, and often monitor compliance with environmental regulations. They also work to reduce the organization's carbon footprint, promote resource efficiency, and report on sustainability performance to stakeholders.
What are the most commonly searched types of Sustainability jobs in Decatur, GA? The most popular types of Sustainability jobs in Decatur, GA are:
What job categories do people searching Director Sustainability jobs in Decatur, GA look for? The top searched job categories for Director Sustainability jobs in Decatur, GA are:
What cities near Decatur, GA are hiring for Director Sustainability jobs? Cities near Decatur, GA with the most Director Sustainability job openings:
Director Sustainability jobs near you

Deputy Director, Planning & Sustainability - Development Services

DeKalb County

Decatur, GA • On-site

$140K/yr

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago

Dekalb County (Georgia) rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 21 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

562nd of 668 rated public administrative organizations

Job description


Salary Range: $140,000+ Job Code: 51005 Pay Grade: 28 FLSA Status: Exempt
General Summary
The Deputy Director of Development Services serves as a senior executive leader within the Department of Planning & Sustainability. This position provides strategic, operational, and administrative leadership over the centralized development services functions of DeKalb County, including land development, permitting, plan review, inspections, business licensing, zoning intake, and customer service.
The Deputy Director works collaboratively with County leadership, external stakeholders, community partners, and development professionals to ensure efficient, transparent, and customer-focused development services that support high-quality growth, economic vitality, code compliance, and sustainable development across DeKalb County.
This position reports directly to the Director of Planning & Sustainability.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership & Management
  • Provides executive oversight and daily management of the Development Services Division, including permitting, plan review, land development, inspections, business licensing, code enforcement coordination, and customer-service operations.
  • Develops and implements policies, procedures, and performance standards to improve operational effectiveness, reduce processing times, and ensure compliance with County ordinances and state law.
  • Leads strategic planning initiatives, process improvements, and modernization efforts, including digital permitting, online customer platforms, and cross-departmental workflow integration.

Operational Oversight
  • Coordinates permitting and development review functions across related departments such as GIS, Fire Marshal's Office, Watershed Management, Traffic Engineering, Public Works, and Code Enforcement.
  • Oversees complex development applications, master plans, subdivision approvals, and land development cases, ensuring timely and accurate processing.
  • Ensures development review decisions comply with zoning codes, UDO requirements, and engineering standards.
  • Supervises staff including managers, supervisors, planners, engineers, building officials, inspectors, technicians, and customer service personnel.

Performance, Reporting & Accountability
  • Establishes performance metrics, dashboards, and service-level targets to monitor productivity, workflow efficiency, and customer satisfaction.
  • Prepares executive-level reports, presentations, and policy recommendations to senior leadership, CEO's Office, County Commissioners, and advisory boards.
  • Ensures compliance with federal, state, and local regulations, as well as internal governance standards.

Customer & Stakeholder Engagement
  • Serves as the primary liaison to developers, contractors, engineers, neighborhood groups, and planning partners.
  • Facilitates conflict resolution, escalated case management, and interagency communication to ensure timely and transparent service delivery.
  • Designs and delivers training, outreach sessions, and educational materials for customers and development professionals.

Budgeting & Administration
  • Assists in developing and managing the division's annual budget, staffing plan, and resource allocation strategies.
  • Identifies grant opportunities, revenue enhancements, and operational efficiencies to support program sustainability.
  • Oversees procurement activities, vendor contracts, and technology initiatives supporting Development Services operations.

Talent Development & Organizational Culture
  • Provides leadership, mentorship, and professional development opportunities for staff.
  • Promotes a culture of customer service, accountability, innovation, and continuous improvement.
  • Ensures compliance with County HR policies, training requirements, and performance management procedures.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
  • Deep understanding of land development processes, zoning regulations, building codes, engineering standards, and permitting workflows.
  • Demonstrated ability to lead large teams and manage complex, multi-disciplinary operations.
  • Strong communication, negotiation, and stakeholder engagement skills.
  • Ability to analyze data, streamline processes, and implement performance-based management systems.
  • Commitment to equity, accountability, sustainability, and excellent public service.

Working Conditions
Work is performed in both office and field environments with occasional site visits. The position requires attendance at evening or weekend meetings as necessary.
Essential Functions:
Manages, directs, and evaluates assigned staff, processing employee concerns and problems, directing work, counseling, disciplining, and completing employee performance appraisals.
Organizes, prioritizes, and assigns work regarding business development and retention; prioritizes and schedules work activities in order to meet objectives; ensures that subordinates have the proper resources needed to complete the assigned work; monitors status of work in progress and inspects completed work; consults with assigned staff to assist with complex/problem situations and provide technical expertise; and provides progress and activity reports to County administrators and elected officials.
Ensures departmental compliance with all applicable codes, laws, rules, regulations, standards, policies and procedures; ensures adherence to established procedures; and initiates any actions necessary to correct deviations or violations.
Develops and implements long- and short-term plans, goals, and objectives for area of assignment; collects and analyzes multiple sources of data; evaluates effectiveness and efficiency of department activities; reviews and revises policies, procedures, plans and programs; and researches, assesses, and develops strategies to meet current and future business development and retention needs.
Develops, implements and monitors policies, procedures, and protocols for area of assignment; interprets, explains and implements local, state, and federal laws and regulations; conducts staff meetings; and provides information, updates, and coordination of work activities.
Develops and implements budget for assigned area; recommends staffing levels, equipment, materials and other budget allocations; monitors expenditures to ensure compliance with approved budget; and prepares and submits budget documentation and reports.
Represents the Development Services Department to other County departments, elected officials, outside agencies, and the residential and commercial community; coordinates assigned activities; resolves land development issues; provides guidance and direction and interpretation of County requirements, processes, and initiatives; and negotiates and resolves sensitive and controversial development issues.
Minimum Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree in Urban and Regional Planning or a related field required (Master's degree preferred); eight years of experience in planning, zoning, and development service, with three years of management experience for a comparably sized organization or as a deputy director for a smaller organization; or any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience which provides the requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities for this job.
Specific License or Certification Required: Must possess and maintain a valid Georgia driver's license. AICP certification is preferred depending on area of assignment.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Master's degree in Urban Planning, Public Administration, Engineering, or related discipline.
  • Demonstrated success implementing customer service improvements and cross-departmental workflow integration.
  • AICP certification, ICC certifications, or Georgia Building Official credentials preferred but not required.
  • Experience with large urban jurisdictions or high-volume permitting environments preferred but not required.
  • Strong background in Lean Six Sigma, process mapping, performance management, or digital permitting transformation preferred but not required.

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