Under general direction, plans, organizes and directs the activities of the Development Services Department to include Planning and Zoning, and Building; provides highly responsible technical and administrative oversight on compliance with city land use and building codes and applicable federal and state laws.  The incumbent of this position is responsible for interpreting and establishing policies and procedures for the efficient operation of the department; manages technical and administrative staff in the enforcement of various City ordinances related to building and zoning codes and business tax certificate regulations; supervises activities and work product of assigned staff and evaluates their performance; assigns tasks to employees and monitors their progress, and guides and develops employees in the accomplishment of their duties.  The Development Services Director is responsible for preparing the department budget, overseeing, and monitoring expenditures.  The incumbent recommends changes and prepares revisions to zoning and land use codes; acts as an advisor to City Administration by providing updates and reports on building, land use and other allied codes, statutes, policy and ordinances; provides oversight and guidance to the City Building Official; coordinates with the City Attorney’s Office on court cases involving enforcement of City building, land use/zoning codes and business tax certificates; interprets policies and advises developers, contractors, builders and the general public on City and departmental policies and procedures necessary for compliance; develops and establishes regulations for the enforcement of business tax certificates; works with other city departments on developing policies and strategies related to land use, transportation and infrastructure; and provides presentations to the City Commission, construction/development industry and the general public on city land use policies, growth trends and other related issues.

The position requires a Bachelor’s degree with a major in Architecture, Engineering, Planning or related field and ten (10) years of progressively responsible building code, and/or planning experience is required, or any equivalent combination of training and experience. Five (5) years of managerial experience is required. 

State of Florida licensure as a Building Code Administrator, Certified Building Official, or American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) certification is preferred. 

A current and valid Florida driver’s license is required.  For application purposes, a valid driver’s license from any state (equivalent to a State of Florida Class E) may be utilized; with the ability to obtain the State of Florida driver’s license within thirty (30) days from date of employment.

About City of West Palm Beach

The City of West Palm Beach (pop. 117,415) - with its sunny palm-lined streets, scenic waterfront views, quaint shopping districts, historic neighborhoods, and year-round outdoor festivals is a slice of paradise. As the county seat of Palm Beach County and one of the fastest growing areas in the country, the City of West Palm Beach offers a dynamic setting in which to live, work, play and enjoy all the attributes of South Florida Living. Our ethnically and culturally diverse community and workplace are the bedrock of our strength and resilience. The City of West Palm Beach was incorporated in 1894 and encompasses over 55 square miles. Among the City’s many attributes is an active and vibrant downtown and waterfront that serves to host a variety of nationally recognized cultural and leisure activities for residents and visitors. West Palm Beach operates under a strong mayor form of government which combines the strong leadership of an elected Mayor, who is responsible for managing the affairs of the City, with a City Commission. Explore the many opportunities available for joining our diverse and winning team!

Connections working at City of West Palm Beach