Director of Building & Development - Internal Only

City of Rockport•Rockport, TX

19d•$48 - $56

About The Position

The City of Rockport is seeking a collaborative, forward-thinking Director of Building and Development to lead the City’s planning, permitting, inspections, and code enforcement functions. This executive-level position plays a critical role in guiding responsible growth, ensuring regulatory compliance, and delivering exceptional service to residents, businesses, and the development community. If you are a seasoned planning or building professional who thrives at the intersection of community vision, technical expertise, and public service, this is an opportunity to make a lasting impact. As the Director of Building and Development, you will provide strategic leadership and administrative oversight for all departmental operations, including planning, inspections, permitting, and code enforcement. You will also serve as the City’s Community Planner, helping guide Rockport’s growth while preserving its character and resilience.

Requirements

Comprehensive knowledge of planning principles, land use, zoning, and development regulations
Strong understanding of building inspection practices and construction codes
Ability to interpret complex codes, ordinances, plans, and technical documents
Proficiency in reading plats, site plans, architectural drawings, and construction plans
Experience with GIS data, mapping, and graphic presentations
Excellent organizational, analytical, and decision-making skills
Strong written and verbal communication and public engagement skills
Proven ability to exercise sound judgment and lead diverse teams
Bachelor’s degree in planning, architecture, engineering, public administration, or a related field (Master’s degree preferred)
One to two years of progressively responsible experience in planning, building, or development administration (additional experience may be considered)
Valid Texas driver’s license or ability to obtain
Ability to obtain Floodplain Administrator Certification within two years of hire
Ability to obtain appropriate state inspection certifications
Valid Plumbing Inspector License from the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners
Certification through a nationally recognized code organization (ICC preferred) in at least one inspection discipline

Responsibilities

Plan, organize, and direct all Building and Development Department activities
Prepare and administer the department’s operating budget
Lead and support a multidisciplinary team of professional, technical, and administrative staff
Develop and implement departmental goals, policies, procedures, and performance measures
Evaluate and communicate the impacts of legal and regulatory changes
Serve as Community Planner, overseeing land use planning, zoning, and development regulations
Interpret and administer adopted codes, ordinances, plans, and policies
Develop short- and long-range comprehensive plans, zoning studies, and infrastructure analyses
Review development proposals, site plans, and building plans for regulatory compliance
Provide case management for zoning issues, variances, and special projects
Assist developers, design professionals, and the public with planning and technical review matters
Oversee building inspections, plan reviews, and enforcement of building and zoning codes
Ensure compliance with residential and commercial construction standards
Address public complaints related to code enforcement and ordinance application
Coordinate inspections, re-inspections, documentation, and corrective actions
Serve as the City’s Floodplain Administrator
Provide staff support to boards, commissions, and committees
Assist with preparation of City Council agenda items and supporting materials
Respond to Public Information Act requests
Attend City meetings and represent the department professionally
Prepare clear, concise reports on departmental operations and performance
Administer emergency preparedness, response, and risk management plans