Zoning Officer

Zoning Officer

Company: Township of Plainsboro | Location: Plainsboro, NJ

Overview

The Township of Plainsboro is seeking an experienced, motivated, and reliable professional to join the Planning and Zoning Department. 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 land use within Plainsboro Township. This is a full-time, in-person position.

Plainsboro Township, with a population of approximately 24,000 people and approximately 12 sq. miles, will soon see a substantial increase with the development of several large projects that have been approved or are pending before the Planning Board. The Zoning Officer will be involved with these projects as well as all other aspects of development alongside the Director, Board Planner, Board Engineer, and other agency staff. The work involves providing information to the public regarding planning and zoning matters, processing administrative approvals for proposed building or other improvements, and performing general administrative and enforcement of the Township’s development regulations and Board Resolution conditions.

Department: Planning and Zoning | Union: CWA | Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM (additional hours as required) | Effective: Immediately

Responsibilities

• Land Use Administration: Administers and enforces zoning ordinances, land use regulations, and Township codes; provides interpretations and recommends amendments as needed.
• Permit Review: Reviews and approves zoning permit applications for fences, accessory structures, home occupation permits, temporary signs, and tree removal; ensures timely processing of all administrative approvals.
• Resolution Compliance: Ensures compliance with Planning Board and Zoning Board resolutions prior to permit issuance; monitors ongoing project compliance with approved plans.
• Enforcement: Provides zoning enforcement on complaints and proactive inspection of existing development; appears in Municipal Court regarding zoning violations and issues municipal court summons.
• Public Interaction: Meets with applicants, residents, contractors, and professionals to explain permitting requirements, processes, and Township regulations.
• OPRA Requests: Assists with OPRA request responses.
• Other: Works closely with other departmental staff on an as-needed basis; performs other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited college or university required. A degree in Urban & Regional Planning, Public Administration, or a related field preferred.
• Experience: Minimum five (5) years of experience in municipal planning, zoning administration, or a related land use field.
• Zoning Certificate: New Jersey Zoning Official Certificate required. Township sponsorship available for qualifying candidates to complete Rutgers Center for Government Services courses.
• Driver’s License: Valid New Jersey driver’s license in good standing required.
• Background: Must successfully complete an employer-paid physical examination, drug screen, reference, and criminal background check prior to appointment.
• Residency: New Jersey residency required pursuant to N.J.S.A. 52:14-7 (L. 2011, Chapter 70). Employees have one year from date of hire to establish principal residence in New Jersey.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Knowledge of New Jersey Municipal Land Use Law (N.J.S.A. 40:55D) along with other State and Federal land use-related regulations.
• Strong written and oral communication skills; ability to prepare clear and technically sound work products.
• Ability to interpret technical regulations, research property histories, and manage complex land use matters.
• Strong organizational and time management skills; ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Teams, Outlook).
• Demonstrated integrity, sound judgment, and commitment to public service.

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary Range: $65,000 – $85,000, commensurate with qualifications.
• Health Insurance: Comprehensive health insurance coverage provided.
• Dental & Vision: Dental and vision coverage included.
• Paid Leave: Paid leave benefits provided.
• Group Life Insurance: Group life insurance included.
• Deferred Compensation: Deferred compensation program available.
• Retirement: Retirement benefits through the State of New Jersey Division of Pension and Benefits.

The Township of Plainsboro is an Equal Opportunity Employer.