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.
Duties, Functions and Responsibilities: Essential duties and functions, pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include the following. Other related duties may be assigned.
- 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.
Job Requirements
- 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.
- Licenses and Certifications Required: Valid Texas Class C Driver License.
Preferred Qualifications: The following are the preferred qualifications for the Assistant Director of Austin Development Services:
- 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.
The ideal candidate for the Assistant Director of Austin Development Services will be a leader who can balance efficiency with quality, navigate complex regulatory environments, and drive meaningful organizational changes while fostering strong interdepartmental relationships. The ideal candidate possesses strong technical acumen and the capacity to drive transformative results.
