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Ferguson Township, PA (pop, 19,309) seeks a collaborative and resourceful leader for its Planning and Zoning Department. The Planning and Zoning Director will provide leadership, direction, and guidance in the Township’s oversight of all planning, subdivision, and land development within the Township. Ferguson Township is a community with approximately 75 full-time employees and a general fund budget of $15.4 million for 2024, with all funds totaling $26.2 million.  The Director will report to the Township Manager and will supervise and have the support of a Community Planner, Zoning Administrator, Ordinance Enforcement Officer, and Staff Assistant. 
 
Ferguson is located adjacent to State College Borough, the home to Pennsylvania State University, in the beautiful Centre Region. Ferguson Township is near the University Park Airport and is accessible by a major highway, Interstate 99. The Township is one of six municipalities that voluntarily participates in the Centre Region Council of Governments (COG), the oldest COG in the Commonwealth that serves the region of over 90,000.  
 
The Township enjoys an excellent quality of life with excellent schools, low crime, and access to many recreational, cultural, and historical amenities. The community is a blend of suburban and rural character, enjoying all the amenities offered by a major university while retaining the rural charm of its many acres of beautiful farmland and public open space through its eleven parks. Ferguson has been ranked as the fifth best suburb in Pennsylvania and one of the state’s safest communities. The Township has been designated as a Sustainable Pennsylvania Certified Gold Community and is a bike friendly community.
 
Candidate Requirements
 
  • Master’s degree in planning or a related field and a minimum of three years of experience in local planning or a related field in Pennsylvania; or bachelor’s degree and a minimum of five years of experience in the same. Experience may be substituted for education.
  • Demonstrable working knowledge in applying the provisions of the Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning Code.
  • American Institute of Certified Planners certification or ability to obtain within one year of accepting employment in the position.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • A collaborative, team-oriented, and approachable management style.
 
Candidates will be expected to be cooperative and supportive, able to mentor, coach and motivate employees. Candidates will need a thorough understanding of all facets of community development principles and a demonstrated track record of implementing best practices and innovative solutions in planning and zoning. GIS experience and a working knowledge of economic development programs and incentives are desirable, but not required.
 
The salary range is between $94,766 – $142,148 with comprehensive benefits. The Township does not have a residency requirement.
 
This position is open until filled. Interested candidates should apply directly to https://www.twp.ferguson.pa.us/careers.
 
Ferguson Township, PA is an Equal Opportunity Employer that welcomes and encourages diverse applicants.

Posted: 2024-02-21

To apply for this job please visit www.twp.ferguson.pa.us.