The Planning Director is the central figure responsible for all development projects within the Forest Preserves and for enhancing public access to natural spaces across the county. This leadership role involves collaborating with staff across various departments, including Administration, Construction, Operations, Natural Resources, and Museum and Education. The Planning Director guides the vision, standards, and implementation of open space and facility development, as well as capital budgeting, including the annual and five-year capital improvement plans.
Supervisory Relationships
This position reports to the Deputy Executive Director and directly supervises the Construction Manager and Planner. It also involves oversight of consultants, contractual workers, seasonal employees, volunteers, and interns, either directly or indirectly.
Job Responsibilities
Essential Functions
- Coordinate planning and inventories across districts.
- Lead project design efforts, including master plans, site plans, landscaping, and natural resources plans.
- Prepare or oversee the preparation of reports and summaries for the board and respond to inquiries as needed.
- Serve as or delegate responsibility for the ADA Officer role, ensuring compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and implementing the ADA Transition Plan.
- Collaborate with staff to identify and apply for grants, and work with the Finance Department to track and report grant funding and reimbursements.
- Maintain comprehensive project records, reports, maps, and drawings.
- Establish policies, procedures, and expectations for the Planning Department and inter-departmental projects.
- Identify, propose, and oversee planning-related projects, including acquiring quotes, developing proposals, managing budgets, obtaining permits, and organizing records.
- Lead the development and recommendation of planning and design initiatives for the Forest Preserves.
- Manage the GIS database, recommending and executing updates to keep data current.
- Participate in strategic planning and contribute to organizational goals.
- Demonstrate commitment to organizational values of Stewardship, Community, and Discovery.
Secondary Functions
- Attend meetings of the Board of Commissioners, Forest Preserves committees, and other events.
- Engage in professional development and guide the development of direct reports.
- Oversee records management of Forest Preserves facilities.
- Operate within safety guidelines to minimize hazards and ensure security and well-being.
- Implement sustainability initiatives and track performance data.
- Ensure staff compliance with training and regulations.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Required Qualifications
Minimum Education and Experience
- Bachelor's degree in Landscape Architecture, Architecture, Urban Planning, Civil Engineering, or related fields; candidates with high school, trade, or associate's degrees plus relevant experience may also be considered.
- Proficiency with computer applications such as Microsoft Office, Illustrator, AutoCAD, Photoshop, ArcGIS Pro, or related programs.
- Experience managing consultants, contractors, seasonal employees, interns, or volunteers is preferred.
- Professional certification from APA, ASLA, AIA, or similar is desirable.
- At least 4-6 years of professional experience in planning or project management is preferred.
- Experience in conservation or recreation fields is a plus.
- Prior supervisory experience is preferred.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Knowledge of applicable laws and project management principles.
- Ability to establish effective relationships internally and externally.
- Sound judgment and professional response to challenges.
- Proficiency with office equipment and software, with a requirement to learn office productivity tools within 30 days if not already proficient.
- Excellent communication skills and ability to interact with diverse populations.
- Ability to work independently, exercise initiative, and solve problems.
- Highly organized with excellent attention to detail.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
- Safety awareness and ability to respond to emergencies.
- Maintain confidentiality at all times.
- Valid driver's license and clean driving record are required.
- AED/CPR/First Aid certification or ability to obtain it within 12 months.
- Certification as a Certified Playground Safety Inspector (CPSI) or ability to obtain within 6 months is required.
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