WHO WE ARE:
The Town of Harrisburg, NC, is one of the fastest-growing communities in North Carolina and is seen as one of the top ten affluent zip codes in the surrounding region. While growth has been exponential over the past decade, the Town has maintained its tight-knit, community-based mindset and strategically fostered a work culture where customer service excellence is our top priority. The Town of Harrisburg was the first municipality in Cabarrus County to achieve the Heartsafe Workplace Award (2025), recently won the 2025 Centralina Innovation in Local Government Award, and was named the Healthiest Employer® in North Carolina in the 50-199 employees category for 2025.
WHAT WE NEED:
Due to the recent retirement of our Planning Director, the Town of Harrisburg is seeking a dynamic and results-oriented Planning Director to join our team and play a crucial role in shaping the future of our community. The Planning Director is responsible for leading the current and long-range municipal planning for the Town of Harrisburg
This role requires a visionary leader who will guide our Town’s current and long-range planning, growth initiatives, and development policies. Key responsibilities include planning, organizing, and directing department activities, setting goals and objectives, developing and monitoring the department budget, recruiting, hiring, training, and evaluating the department staff, providing strong leadership and mentorship. This position will also oversee and manage long-range planning projects, including working with consultants and creating RFPs, review and approve site development plans and lead the review and update of the Unified Development Ordinance (UDO). The Planning Director serves as the technical expert and liaison to the Planning and Zoning Board and Board of Adjustment, provides expert advice to the Town Manager’s Office and Town Council, facilitates public meetings, resolves complex citizen inquiries and complaints, and presents information to various civic organizations. The Planning Director also serves as the Floodplain Administrator for the Town, oversees the utilization and development of the Town’s GIS for mapping and data display, conducts special studies and prepares comprehensive technical statistical reports.
DESIREABLE CANDIDATE:
Graduation from a four-year college or university with major coursework in planning, geography, landscape architecture, or related field; and at least 7 to 10 years of progressively responsible experience in municipal, county or regional planning including supervisory experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Master’s degree in planning or related field and AICP (American Institute of Certified Planners) Certification are preferred (AICP certification required within 12 months of hire). Must have a valid NC Driver’s License.
WHAT WE OFFER:
The Town of Harrisburg offers a comprehensive benefits package, opportunities for professional growth, and a collaborative work environment dedicated to shaping the community’s future.
The hiring range is $110,869 - $137,910 and starting salary will be dependent on qualifications and prior experience. Will also be eligible for a $4,500 sign-on bonus upon hire.
Please submit resume, employment application, references and salary requirements to either resumes@harrisburgnc.gov or at https://www.harrisburgnc.gov/jobs.aspx.
