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Zoning Administrator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

City Of Reading

Zoning Inspector

Reading, PA · On-site

$33.55/hr

Work is performed independently or in collaboration with other staff, under the direction of the Zoning Administrator and/or Division Manager. Typical duties may include but not limited to: * Reviews ...

Bureau Veritas

SC Permit Technician / Zoning Administrator / Planner Location: Greenville, SC Alternate Location: Braselton, GA candidates may also be considered Travel: Occasional, based on client needs A WORLD ...

City of Dayton

Zoning Inspector

Dayton, OH · On-site

$78K - $105K/yr

The Zoning Inspector works closely with the Zoning Administrator and collaborates with multiple City departments to address zoning issues and support coordinated development review. The role also ...

Loudoun County Government

Zoning Inspector

Leesburg, VA · On-site

$61K - $104K/yr

Virginia Association of Zoning Officials' Certified Zoning Official (CZO) Certified Zoning Administrator (CZA) certification. Job Contingencies and Special Requirements Must be available to work a ...

Loudoun County Government

Zoning Inspector

Leesburg, VA · On-site

$61K - $104K/yr

Certified Zoning Administrator (CZA) certification. Job Contingencies and Special Requirements * Must be available to work a flexible schedule, which could require evenings and weekend inspections ...

Onslow County, NC

Planning Administrator

Jacksonville, NC · On-site

$71K - $93K/yr

Coordinates with the Zoning Administrator on daily operations and long-range planning as necessary. * Assists the Director in the annual budget preparation of the Planning Division. * Long Range ...

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Zoning Administrator information

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$39K

$73.3K

$152.5K

How much do zoning administrator jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for zoning administrator in the United States is $73,281.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $56,000.00 and $81,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Is a Zoning Administrator?

A zoning administrator is responsible for playing a critical role in urban planning: enforcing and evaluating regulations. As a zoning administrator, you work with the city’s planning commission. Your job duties are to look at zoning codes and determine the appropriate setup of regional residential districts, business districts, and more. You also review zoning applications and attend public hearings. To qualify for this job, you need at least a high school diploma, but in many municipalities, you need a bachelor’s degree in engineering or architecture. Other qualifications for this career include a valid driver’s license and the skills to read and decode zoning designations. Typically, you also need prior job experience on a commission council or in urban planning.

What is the difference between Zoning Administrator vs Building Inspector?

AspectZoning AdministratorBuilding Inspector
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in urban planning, public administration, or related field; certifications in zoning or planning are commonRequires a high school diploma or equivalent; certifications in building codes and inspections are often needed
Work EnvironmentOffice-based with site visits; interacts with city planners, developers, and the publicPrimarily on-site inspections of buildings and construction sites; collaborates with contractors and code officials
Employer & IndustryMunicipal governments, planning agencies, development firmsLocal government building departments, construction companies, inspection agencies

The Zoning Administrator focuses on land use regulations, zoning codes, and planning compliance, while the Building Inspector ensures construction projects meet safety and building codes. Both roles are essential in urban development but serve different regulatory functions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Zoning Administrator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Zoning Administrator, you need a solid understanding of land use regulations, urban planning principles, and typically a degree in urban planning, public administration, or a related field. Familiarity with GIS software, zoning codes, and permit management systems is essential. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help in interpreting regulations and engaging with the public and stakeholders. These skills ensure accurate enforcement of zoning laws, smooth permitting processes, and positive community development outcomes.

What are Zoning Administrators?

Zoning Administrators are professionals responsible for interpreting and enforcing local zoning ordinances and land use regulations. They review development proposals, issue permits, and ensure that construction and land use comply with municipal codes. Zoning Administrators also respond to public inquiries, process variance requests, and may present findings at public hearings or planning commission meetings. Their work helps guide orderly community development and resolve disputes related to property use.

What are some common challenges faced by Zoning Administrators in their daily work?

Zoning Administrators often encounter challenges such as interpreting complex zoning codes, balancing the needs of developers and the community, and addressing concerns from residents about proposed land uses. They must stay current on local ordinances and state regulations while ensuring fair and consistent application of zoning laws. Additionally, Zoning Administrators frequently collaborate with planning boards, city councils, and the public, requiring strong communication and conflict resolution skills.
More about Zoning Administrator jobs
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Zoning Administrator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Zoning Administrator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $73,281 per year, or $35.2 per hour.
Zoning Official / Sr. Zoning Official

Zoning Official / Sr. Zoning Official

City of Hampton, VA

Hampton, VA • On-site

$53K - $69K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 21 days ago

City Of Hampton (Virginia) rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

457th of 693 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

Salary: $53,321.00 - $69,317.00 Annually
Location : Community Development, VA
Job Type: Full-Time Permanent
Job Number: 09388
Department: COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
Opening Date: 06/26/2026
Closing Date: 7/30/2026 12:00 AM Eastern
FLSA: Exempt
Function
Your application will be considered for a Zoning Official / Sr. Zoning Official.
Zoning Official Salary Range - ($53,321 - $69,317)
Sr. Zoning Official Salary Range($55,719 - $72,435)
A career about community-Are you a professional with experience in zoning? Do you have an interest in local government? Do you value integrity, trust, respect, accountability, creativity, collaboration?
If you answered "yes" then the City of Hampton has an opportunity for you! Come work for Hampton, a vibrant waterfront community celebrating and embracing 400 years of history and innovation, creating an even more dynamic future! We are located in the center of the Hampton Roads region and offer lots of waterfront fun, rich and diverse history, and a vibrant restaurant scene. Hampton offers excellent benefits, career and professional development, tuition reimbursement and other benefits.
If you embody the following attributes, consider joining our dynamic Community Development Department:
  • Detailed, yet creative problem-solver
  • Thrives in a fast paced work environment
  • Versatile and enthusiastic team player
  • Passionate about providing excellent customer service
  • Effective oral and written communicator
YOU will perform most aspects of the day-to-day zoning administration functions related to zoning determinations, appeals, development review, as well as providing staff support to the Board of Zoning Appeals under the supervision of the Zoning Administrator/Deputy Zoning Administrator and the Planning and Zoning Administration Division Manager.
You will work closely with the City Attorney's Office to ensure the City's zoning ordinance is kept legally current and collaborate with appropriate staff to ensure that the ordinance is aligned with current public policy.
Zoning Official Minimum Requirements
  • Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Bachelor's Degree in Planning, Public or Governmental Administration or a related field of study.
  • Requires a minimum of one (1) year direct work experience in any of the following areas: regulatory, plan review, quality assurance, architecture, engineering, drafting, construction or legal environment.
  • Experience in municipal government preferred.
  • Customer service experience requiring the resolution of challenging customer issues preferred.
  • Certification by the American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) and/or certification as a Zoning Official by the Virginia Association of Zoning Officials (VAZO) is preferred.
  • Knowledge of zoning laws and related ordinances; knowledge of legal procedures as they relate to the enforcement and administration of the Zoning Ordinance and related ordinances.
  • Requires advanced project management skills to include skill in reading and interpreting architectural and engineering drawings, construction documents and specifications, site plans, property plats, property deeds, easement agreements and environmental studies and reports.
  • Any combination of successful education and experience that confers equivalent knowledge and ability may serve to satisfy this requirement.
  • Must possess a valid driver's license and must have and maintain a satisfactory driving record based on the City of Hampton's criteria.
  • Must successfully pass a background check related to this position prior to an offer of employment or promotion.
  • Requires considerable fieldwork with the use of a city owned vehicle and attendance at meetings generally held after normal working hours.
Additional Requirements
  • Ability to establish and maintain exceptional customer service while maintaining high standards of accuracy and efficiency in a timely manner; ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
  • Ability to establish and maintain harmonious working relations with co-workers and internal and external customers; ability to foster effective public relations and work effectively with diverse groups.
  • The incumbent may be considered "essential personnel" during City emergencies or at the direction of the City Manager, which may include long hours and unusual schedules.
for a complete job description.
Examples of Work
Sr. Zoning Official Minimum Requirements
  • Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Bachelor's Degree in Planning, Public or Governmental Administration or a related field of study.
  • Certification by American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) and/or certification as a Zoning Official by the Virginia Association of Zoning Officials (VAZO) is preferred.
  • A minimum of three (3) years working in a municipal government environment with planning, zoning, flood, or environmental regulation experience.
  • A minimum of two (2) years' experience as a practitioner in development review, drafting ordinance amendments, or interpreting ordinances.
  • Thorough knowledge of zoning laws and related ordinances; knowledge of legal procedures as they relate to the enforcement and administration of the Zoning Ordinance and related ordinances.
  • Requires advanced project management skills to include skill in reading and interpreting architectural and engineering drawings, construction documents and specifications, site plans, property plats, property deeds, easement agreements and environmental studies and reports.
  • Good proficiency in the operation of a personal computer; familiarity with one or more specialized automated systems used in regulation of land use, development and code enforcement.
  • An acceptable combination of experience and education may be considered in lieu of the specific requirements above.
  • Must possess a valid driver's license and must have and maintain a satisfactory driving record based on the City of Hampton's criteria.
  • Must successfully pass a background check related to this position prior to an offer of employment or promotion
Additional Requirements
  • Requires considerable fieldwork with the use of a city owned vehicle and attendance at meetings generally held after normal working hours.
  • Ability to establish and maintain exceptional customer service while maintaining high standards of accuracy and efficiency in a timely manner; ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
  • Ability to establish and maintain harmonious working relations with co-workers and internal and external customers; ability to foster effective public relations and work effectively with diverse groups.
  • Ability to prepare written correspondence and reports of a complex nature; ability to explain and interpret complex policies, standards and regulations; ability to investigate and respond to complaints; ability to make decisions and determinations which require a high level of initiative and independent judgment.
  • The incumbent may be considered "essential personnel" during City emergencies or at the direction of the City Manager, which may include long hours and unusual schedules.

Benefits Overview
This is a summary of benefits associated with permanent, full-time positions. Benefits associated with other positions can be found with specific job listings. Benefits begin on the 1st of the month following one full calendar month of employment in the following benefit plans:
  • Sentara Health Medical Insurance
  • OptumRx
  • Delta Dental Insurance
  • Anthem Blue View Vision
  • FSA Reimbursement accounts
  • Standard: Accident and Critical Illness
  • Trust Mark Universal Life Insurance
  • Legal Resources Plan
  • Mission Square: 457 / Roth IRS / Roth 457 (b) IRA
  • Employees begin accruing annual and sick leave immediately.
  • Other forms of leave include:
    • Maternity Leave
    • Parental Bonding Leave
    • Care for Sick Parent Leave
    • Birthday Leave
    • Personal day (available every quarter)
The eleven paid holidays each year include:
  • New Year's Day
  • Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
  • President's Day
  • Memorial Day
  • Juneteenth Day
  • Independence Day
  • Labor Day
  • Veterans' Day
  • Thanksgiving Day
  • Christmas Day
  • Employee's birthday
  • A tax deferred retirement plan 457 is offered through the ICMA Retirement Corporation. An after-tax retirement plan, Roth IRA, is offered through the ICMA Retirement Corporation (1-800-669-7400). For more information, see the
  • Group life insurance is offered through the VRS and the carrier is the Minnesota Life Insurance Company.
    Tax deferred retirement plan 457 is offered through the ICMA Retirement Corporation (1-800-669-7400). For more information, see the
  • Training and Career Development: The Employee Education Assistance Program (EEAP) encourages employee development through (1) educational programs leading to a degree, (2) skilled craft or trade training leading to a certificate or license and (3) coursework to renew and update skills. Eligibility criteria apply. In addition, the City offers training opportunities in technological, leadership, supervisory, and other areas of government/business knowledge and skill development.
  • Medical/Dental and Dependent Care Reimbursement Accounts are offered on a pre-tax basis in order to reduce the amount of tax the employee pays.
  • The Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is confidential and personal counseling service for the employee and their immediate family (757-363-6777, 1-800-899-8174 or
  • Direct deposit into most banks is a convenient finance feature.
    Savings bonds are available to the City's workforce.
  • Employees are covered for Workers' Compensation where appropriate.

01
Which of the following reflects your highest level of education in Planning, Public or Governmental Administration or a related field of study?
  • Ged / High School Diploma
  • Some College
  • Associates Degree
  • Bachelor's Degree
  • Masters Degree or Higher

02
Which of the following best represents your years of direct work experience working in a municipal government environment with planning, zoning, flood, or environmental regulation experience?Your application must indicate where you gained this specific work experience from.
  • No experience
  • Less than 1 year
  • 1 -2 years
  • 3 - 4 years
  • 5 or more years

03
Which of the following best represents your years of experience as a practitioner in development review, drafting ordinance amendments, or interpreting ordinances?
  • No experience
  • 1 year
  • 2 - 3 years
  • 4 or more yesrs

04
Which of the options below best describes your level of project management skills to include skill in reading and interpreting architectural and engineering drawings, construction documents and specifications, site plans, property plats, property deeds, easement agreements and environmental studies and reports?
  • Basic
  • Moderate
  • Advanced

05
Do you currently possess either of the following certifications?Certification by the American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP). Certification as a Zoning Official by the Virginia Association of Zoning Officials (VAZO)
  • Yes
  • No

06
I understand that a background check related to this position is required prior to any offer of employment or promotion.
  • Yes
  • No

07
This position requires that you possess a valid driver's license and have and maintain a satisfactory driving record based on the City of Hampton's criteria. Failure to provide your driver's license number will prevent us from considering your application. Please confirm your driver's license number by entering it below:
08
I understand that this position may require considerable fieldwork with the use of a city owned vehicle and attendance at meetings generally held after normal working hours.
  • Yes
  • No

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