Assistant Director, Austin Development Services

City of Austin

1d

About The Position

At the City of Austin, we are more than just an employer—we are a vibrant community dedicated to shaping one of the nation's most dynamic and innovative cities. As we strive to fulfill our commitment as public servants, it is important that we ground our efforts in a set of guiding principles – Empathy, Ethics, Excellence, Engagement, and Equity – anchors in delivering services that significantly impact the lives of Austinites. Joining the City of Austin means embarking on a purposeful career, contributing to the community, and being part of a forward-thinking organization that values every employee. Austin Development Services helps homeowners, business owners, and contractors ensure compliance with applicable City and building codes when they build, demolish, repair, or perform any construction in the City of Austin. The Department educates, collaborates and engages with the community to build a better and safer Austin. Under general direction of the director, this position oversees the effective leadership and management of multiple activities and operations of the Austin Development Services. This position executes policies included in City ordinances, resolutions and administrative regulations, and State law.

Requirements

• Knowledge of fiscal planning and budget preparation.
• Knowledge of the principles and practices of public administration.
• Skill in directing the activities of a complex and diverse organization.
• Skill in oral and written communications.
• Skill in handling multiple tasks and priorities.
• Skill in data analysis and problem solving.
• Skill in using computers and related software applications.
• Ability to interpret, recommend, and propose revisions to State statutes and City ordinances.
• Ability to consistently, effectively, and tactfully communicate with people at many levels.
• Ability to communicate complex, technical issues in non-technical terms to the general public.
• Ability to plan strategically.
• Ability to develop and maintain effective working relationships with City employees, the public, elected officials, and boards and commissions.
• Graduation with a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in Business Administration, Public Administration, Urban Planning, Engineering, Environmental Management, Construction, Building Sciences, or in a field related to the job, plus six (6) years of related experience in a related field, including three (3) years of experience which were in a managerial capacity.
• Graduation with a Master’s degree from an accredited college or university may substitute for experience up to a maximum of two (2) years.
• One (1) additional year of relevant work experience may be substituted for the required degree with a maximum of four (4) years.
• Valid Texas Class C Driver License.

Nice To Haves

• Executive-level leadership experience with large, complex organizations with responsibility for development, permitting functions in a municipal or public-sector environment.
• Demonstrated success in community engagement and stakeholder management, including experience collaborating with neighborhood associations, boards and commissions, elected officials, and diverse community groups.
• Experience interpreting and applying local, state, and federal laws and regulations related to land use, development, or building code compliance, and advising senior leadership and policymakers on complex regulatory issues.
• Proven ability to lead organizational changes and innovation, including developing and implementing long- and short-range strategies that improve service delivery, efficiency, and equity in community outcomes.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with experience presenting to governing bodies, the media, and the public, and the ability to explain complex technical issues in accessible, non technical language.

Responsibilities

• Oversees the development, implementation, operations, and evaluation of programs and services that support the department’s purpose.
• Represents the department’s interest and position before State and Local governmental officials, boards, commissions, associations, and community organizations.
• Develops a staffing and management structure that supports the efficient delivery of programs and services.
• Develops and implements short- and long-range strategies, objectives, and priorities.
• Fosters and develops a culture of positive customer service in working relationships with key staff; division and departmental employees; other governmental organizations; and external services such as consultants, citizens, legal counsel, boards and commissions, and City Council.
• Responds to and resolves complex and sensitive issues and complaints both internally and externally, and provides technical expertise on matters of public concern.
• Assists the director in managing program and department activities.
• Ensures all activities are complete and in compliance with City/departmental policies and procedures; and Local, State, and Federal regulations and laws governing activities.
• Prepares annual reports, trend analyses, and budget estimates for City management and City Council.
• Responsible for the full range of supervisory activities including selection, training, evaluation, counseling, and recommendation for dismissal.

Benefits

• Competitive Benefits: Enjoy a comprehensive compensation package that includes generous leave, work-life balance programs, and extensive benefits.
• Retirement Security: Plan for the future with the City of Austin Employees' Retirement System.
• Sustainable Transportation Options: Commute easily with access to public transit and bike-friendly infrastructure.
• Focus on Wellness: Stay healthy through wellness programs, on-site fitness centers, and mental health support.
• Career Growth: Advance your skills and expertise with professional development and leadership opportunities.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager