Director of Economic & Community Development

JOB TITLE: Director of Economic & Community Development
AGENCY: City of Palmdale
LOCATION: Palmdale, California
FILING DEADLINE: January 31, 2025
SALARY RANGE: $15,839 – $20,219 monthly

ARE YOU READY TO LEAVE YOUR MARK?
The Director of Economic and Community Development will play a strategic role in executive-level management. This position allows you to plan, direct, coordinate and oversee the implementation of economic development initiatives that will shape the future of our City.

In this role, you will have the ultimate responsibility for overseeing all functions and activities in managing the Economic and Community Development department, including planning, building safety, economic development and private development. You will also be responsible for administering the City’s General Plan, Zoning Ordinance, Specific Plans, land use entitlements and development proposals — encompassing both advanced and current planning proposals, grading, building plan checks, permit issuance, development proposals, land surveying, construction, business licensing and planning.

With a strong professional background in collaborating with other City departments, public agencies, local businesses and residents, this role provides an opportunity for a front-row seat in our mission to launch Palmdale forward.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES
Essential, or otherwise important responsibilities and duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Develop and implement departmental goals, objectives, policies and priorities. Generate strategies to build a sustainable organization and meet City strategic objectives.
• Manage and participate in the development and administration of the department’s annual budget. Direct the forecast of additional funds needed for staffing, equipment, materials and supplies. Monitor and approve expenditures.
• Directly supervise and inspire program managers, and professional staff and technical staff. Select, train, motivate and lead department personnel and assess work for alignment with City standards. Coach, counsel and implement progressive discipline and termination procedures and respond to staff questions and concerns.
• Develop and implement community engagement strategies; evaluate the impact of community engagement goals, objectives, policies, programs and procedures. Design programs and projects that foster extensive community participation.
• Act as liaison to City-sponsored community groups in assessing community engagement needs and issues. Represent the City at community planning, interagency meetings and conferences.
• Present recommendations to City Council, City Manager, Executive Management Team, Commissions, City departments, governmental organizations and professional associations. Attend professional meetings and conferences advising City representatives on significant trends and developments.
• Interpret departmental policies, governing codes and regulations for departmental employees.
• Deliver presentations to City committees, commissions and City Council.
• Plan, develop, organize, and oversee a variety of department-related programs.
• Address complex and sensitive public inquiries and complaints by providing resolutions and alternative solutions.
• Be an active member of the City’s management team and address issues of concern to the City. Perform related duties as required.

EXPERIENCE, TRAINING, LICENSES AND CERTIFICATES
Qualifying combinations of education and experience that provide the necessary knowledge and abilities include:
• Education: A bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in public administration, recreation administration, business administration or a related field.
• A Master’s degree is preferred.
• Experience: Five years of progressively responsible management experience with program and policy development in the assigned department.
• Licenses/Certifications/Other Requirements: Possession of a valid California driver’s license by the time of appointment.

WHY PALMDALE?
Located in the beautiful Antelope Valley, Palmdale is known for its unique blend of natural beauty and the prominence of the aerospace industry. The City thrives on its forward-thinking and innovative ethos, driving progress across various sectors. Its family-friendly atmosphere is evidenced by numerous parks, recreational facilities and activities. From community festivals to educational programs, Palmdale offers a supportive environment where families can thrive and public safety is a top priority. With its growing population and economic development, Palmdale is a dynamic hub in Los Angeles County!

For more details about this opportunity, please visit the job brochure at: https://koffassociates.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/2024.12.10-Director-of-Econ-Dev-Updated-Brochure-Final-02a.pdf.

To be considered, please submit a resume, cover letter, and five work-related references (who will not be contacted in the early stages of the recruitment) to: KoffAssociates.com/Palmdale-Community-Econ-Dev-Dir/. Resumes should reflect years and months of positions held, as well as size of past organization(s).

Chelsea Freeman
510/570-3844
chelsea_freeman@ajg.com
www.KoffAssociates.com

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