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Zoning Director Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Township of Plainsboro

Zoning Officer

Plainsboro, NJ

$65K - $85K/yr

Under the direction of the Planning and Community Development Director, the Zoning Officer administers and enforces the Township Code, the Municipal Land Use Law, and related regulations governing ...

GovernmentJobs.com

Zoning Officer

Longport, NJ · On-site

$50K - $78K/yr

Job Title Director, Planning and Development Under direction, examines the working plans of proposed buildings for compliance with state, county, and local zoning laws, ordinances, rules, and ...

CITY OF MABLETON

Planning & Zoning Manager

Mableton, GA · On-site

The position serves as a key advisor to the Deputy Director of Community Development, Planning Commission, Board of Zoning Appeals, and Mayor and Council on planning-related matters. * Manages daily ...

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Zoning Director information

See salary details

$37K

$135.8K

$243K

How much do zoning director jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for zoning director in the United States is $135,763.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $109,500.00 and $163,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges a Zoning Director faces when balancing community interests with regulatory requirements?

A Zoning Director often encounters the challenge of balancing the diverse interests of community members, developers, and local government while ensuring compliance with zoning laws and regulations. This can involve addressing public concerns during hearings, interpreting complex zoning codes, and mediating between stakeholders with conflicting priorities. Success in the role requires strong negotiation, communication, and problem-solving skills, as well as the ability to remain impartial and uphold legal standards. Collaborating closely with planning staff, legal advisors, and elected officials is also a key part of effectively managing these challenges.

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

To thrive as a Zoning Director, you need expertise in urban planning, zoning laws, and land use regulations, typically supported by a relevant degree such as urban planning or public administration. Familiarity with GIS software, permitting systems, and planning databases, as well as certifications like AICP, are often required. Strong leadership, negotiation, and communication skills help in managing teams and collaborating with stakeholders. These capabilities are crucial for ensuring compliant, sustainable development and balancing community needs with regulatory requirements.

How much does a city planner get paid?

A city planner's average salary typically ranges from $50,000 to $80,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Zoning Directors, who often oversee planning departments, tend to earn higher salaries, often exceeding $90,000 per year, especially with advanced certifications and leadership responsibilities.

What is the difference between Zoning Director vs Urban Planner?

AspectZoning DirectorUrban Planner
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in urban planning, geography, or related field; often requires zoning certificationBachelor's or master's degree in urban planning, geography, or related field
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, city planning departments, often involved in policy enforcementPublic and private sector projects, community development, research
Industry UsageUsed in local government to oversee zoning policies and regulationsUsed across government, consulting firms, and non-profits for planning initiatives

The Zoning Director primarily focuses on implementing and enforcing zoning laws within a jurisdiction, often holding regulatory authority. Urban Planners develop broader community plans and strategies, working on long-term development projects. While both roles require similar educational backgrounds, the Zoning Director has a more regulatory and enforcement focus, whereas the Urban Planner emphasizes planning and community development.

What is a Zoning Director?

A Zoning Director is a municipal or county official responsible for overseeing and managing the enforcement of zoning laws and regulations within a specific jurisdiction. They review development proposals, issue zoning permits, and ensure that land use complies with local ordinances and comprehensive plans. Zoning Directors often work with planners, developers, and the public to interpret zoning codes, address land use disputes, and guide sustainable community development. Their role is crucial in balancing growth, environmental protection, and community needs.
More about Zoning Director jobs
What cities are hiring for Zoning Director jobs? Cities with the most Zoning Director job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Zoning jobs? The most popular types of Zoning jobs are:
What states have the most Zoning Director jobs? States with the most job openings for Zoning Director jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Zoning Director jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Zoning Director jobs are:
Zoning Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Zoning Director job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% Internship, 20% As Needed, 40% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 11% Temporary, and 23% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $135,763 per year, or $65.3 per hour.

Zoning Commission

Mayor's Office of Talent and Appointments

Washington, DC • On-site

$92K - $124K/yr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Total public member: 3
Method of Appointment: Appointed by Mayor, confirmed by Council
Length of Appointment: 4 years
Residency: Strong preference for DC residents from all 8 wards
Paid board: Yes
Description:
The Zoning Commission (ZC) is an independent, quasi-judicial body. Created by the Zoning Act of 1920, as amended, the ZC is charged with preparing, adopting, and subsequently amending the Zoning Regulations and Zoning Map in a means not inconsistent with the Comprehensive Plan for the National Capital area. Three members of the ZC are residents of the District of Columbia appointed by the Mayor and confirmed by the Council. The fourth member of the ZC is the Architect of the Capitol (or his/her representative). The fifth ZC member is the Director of the National Park Service (or his/her representative).
To protect the public health, secure the public safety, and to protect property in the District of Columbia there is created a Zoning Commission for the District of Columbia, which shall consist of the Architect of the Capitol, the Director of the National Park Service, and 3 members appointed by the Mayor, by and with the advice and consent of the Council. Each member appointed by the Mayor shall serve for a term of 4 years, except of the members first appointed under this section:
Members of the Zoning Commission appointed by the Mayor shall be entitled to receive compensation as determined by the Mayor, with the approval of a majority of the Council. The remaining members shall serve without additional compensation.
Members of the Zoning Commission appointed by the Mayor may be reappointed. Each member shall serve until his successor has been appointed and qualifies.
The Chairman of the Zoning Commission shall be selected by the members.
The Zoning Commission shall exercise all the powers and perform all the duties with respect to zoning in the District as provided by law.
Commission membership:
The three mayoral appointees must be residents of the District of Columbia.
If you are interested in an appointment to this board, please complete the appointment application. A member of our team will contact you to discuss the opportunity.

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