Posting number: 177
Department: Development Services Department
Job classification: Development Services Director/Building Director/Building Official
Posting type: Open
Categories: Building Maintenance, Facility Management, Executive Management, Construction Maintenance, 911 Telecommunications, Construction Trades
Under the broad policy guidance of the City Manager, this position serves as a key member of the City's leadership team with direct responsibility for the effective implementation of City-wide strategic and operating initiatives. The Director provides leadership through managing, directing, and coordinating the activities of the department's three divisions: Building, Planning & Zoning, and Code Enforcement. The Development Services Director organizes land development services with other divisions and departments and provides highly complex staff assistance to the Building, Code Enforcement, and Planning & Zoning Directors. Implements strategies and systems to enhance operations, management of employees, customer satisfaction, and budget management. Must be able to think strategically and exercise considerable initiative and independent judgment. Reports to the City Manager.
The following duties are normal for this position. The omission of specific statements of the duties does not exclude them from the classification if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment for this classification.
Directs and manages a comprehensive City-wide Development Services Department consistent with the City's goals and initiatives ensuring high-quality customer service and professional standards. Develops and manages the annual operating budget of the Development Services Department. Develops and implements long range and annual action plans to meet the needs of a growing City.
Provides overall direction and strategy regarding Building, Planning & Zoning, and Code Enforcement policies, procedures, and regulations to the City, including the formation, adoption, and enforcement of zoning regulations and comprehensive plans; the review and assessment of development plans and proposals for land use; and the administration of building and other related codes.
Demonstrates leadership by advocating for innovation and strategic change within the Development Services department; reviews, evaluates and when necessary, implements business practices to ensure the efficient provision of development services to the public.
Manages and develops a qualified staff, ensuring professional and courteous service from all employees in support of the City’s mission, values, customers, and stakeholders. Promotes the development of a diverse and engaged workforce.
Oversees the department's divisions in providing assistance to contractors and developers and may at times perform field inspections to review work at construction sites.
Confers with the Building, Planning & Zoning, and Code Enforcement division heads, architects, engineers, and property owners regarding compliance with City ordinances and City zoning codes. Interprets ordinances and codes, makes recommendations, and settles difficult enforcement problems.
Remains informed of cutting-edge technologies and advancements in municipal building, code enforcement, and planning and zoning programs.
Works collaboratively with and regularly interacts with other agencies, boards, authorities, commissions, developers, contractors, regulatory agencies, and civic groups.
Pursues ongoing professional development through course attendance, professional organizations, and meetings/conventions to stay informed of technological advancements and trends in the industry.
Conforms with and abides by all regulations, policies, work procedures, and instructions.
Conforms with and abides by all applicable safety rules which include wearing and using all appropriate safety equipment.
Performs other related duties as assigned.
Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering, Architecture, Planning, Construction Management, Business Administration, Public Administration, or related field. Advanced degree and professional certificate(s) strongly preferred.
Eight (8) years of responsible and relevant experience in local government with considerable senior management level experience.
Valid Florida Driver's License.
A comparable amount of training or experience may be substituted for the minimum qualifications.
Known as The City Beautiful, Coral Gables stands out as a planned community that blends color, details, and the Mediterranean Revival architectural style.
Coral Gables is a major employment center, with almost as many people working in the City as living there. The Coral Gables economy is comprised of local and international businesses, but unlike other parts of Florida, it is not influenced as strongly by seasonal shifts. The City is especially desirable to businesses because of its proximity to Miami International Airport, the Port of Miami, and downtown Miami, while also being convenient for executive housing. In addition, a vintage style trolley connects many of the commercial districts, Grand Avenue and the Metrorail. The City has a strong offering of banking, investment institutions, health care, and professional services, as well as being the international headquarters for Bacardi and Del Monte Fresh Produce. The University of Miami (UM) is also located in Coral Gables, and is the City's largest employer.
UM, a research university, is ranked 50th among the nations top-tier institutions in the U.S. News & World Report ratings of "America's Best Colleges." Also located within the City is Northwestern University's prestigious Kellogg School of Management Executive MBA Program. Coral Gables' lower schools offer strong academic and international programs including an international baccalaureate program at Coral Gables Senior High and at Gulliver Preparatory School.
The City provides excellent municipal services, including an accredited Police Department, as well as a Class 1 Fire Department and a Class 1 Building Division. In addition, Coral Gables has been named a Tree City USA for the last 31 consecutive years, and selected as a Playful City USA for eight years in a row.
Excellent municipal services, high quality of life, convenient access, responsible growth and a diversified economy make Coral Gables a highly desirable place to live, work and play.
