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Job Description
Description
Exciting Leadership Opportunity with the City of Laguna Beach!
Deputy Director of Community Development
The City of Laguna Beach is thrilled to announce a new leadership opportunity within our Community Development Department! We are seeking a highly qualified and motivated individual to serve as Deputy Director of Community Development to lead the Building & Code Enforcement Division.
This newly created position offers a rare opportunity to help shape the future of Laguna Beach. The Deputy Director will play a vital role in guiding the strategic direction of their division, mentoring staff, and ensuring the delivery of high-quality public services. Join us during an exciting time of growth and innovation!
In Laguna Beach, the Building and Code Division isn’t just about permits and enforcement—it’s about honoring legacy, preserving craftsmanship, and respecting the unique context of our coastal community. Our city is known for its natural beauty, architectural integrity, and deep sense of place. From coastal hillside homes to complex infill projects in historic neighborhoods, every project is unique, layered and held to the highest standards. In this technically rich environment, you’ll have a rare chance to grow as a generalist with deep expertise in:- Beach and bluff-top development
- Environmental and topographical complexity
- Historic preservation
- California coastal planning
- Native habitat protection
- Commercial infill projects
We’re a Great Match If You:- Are tired of cookie-cutter projects and crave creative, complex work
- Excel in a highly engaged community where confidence, diplomacy, and collaboration are key
- Thrive in team environments where mentorship, shared wins, and stepping up come naturally
Desirable Experience Includes:- Leading process improvements in a Building or Code Enforcement Division
- Implementing new technology to streamline operations
- Building high-performing teams that deliver permitting, plan check, inspection, and or code enforcement services
- Demonstrated commitment to continuous improvement and exceptional customer service
Apply now to be part of the first review! Applications will be accepted on a continuous basis, with the first review on July 29, 2025.
Examples of Duties
The normal duties for this position can be found in the job description for Deputy Director of Community Development . They are not to be construed as exclusive or all-inclusive. Other duties may be required and assigned.
Qualifications
Any combination of education and training demonstrating the ability to effectively and successfully perform the duties of the position is considered qualifying. A typical combination is as follows:
Education: Graduation from a four-year college or university with a degree in Urban Planning, Architecture, Public Administration, Construction Management, or a closely related field is required. A Master's degree is highly desirable.
Experience: Five (5) years of progressively responsible experience performing varied and complex planning, building, or code enforcement work, including at least one (1) year of supervisory experience. Public sector experience is highly desirable.
Certifications (depending on assignment):- ICC Certified Building Official (CBO) - strongly preferred or required.
- ICC certifications in:
- Building Plans Examiner
- Building Inspector
- Combination Inspector (or other specialty certifications)
- CASp certification (Certified Access Specialist) is desirable.
- CALBO (California Building Officials) involvement or credentials are a plus.
Supplemental Information
This recruitment will establish an eligibility list that may be used to fill future vacancies in the same or lower classifications.
Application/Selection Process: Applications will be screened carefully, and selected applicants will be invited to participate in the Structured Panel Interview. The appointing hiring authority will further review the job-related qualifications of those deemed eligible for hire before making selection decisions. The selection process may be modified based on the needs of the City.
Pre-employment Process: The selected candidate must successfully pass a fingerprint check with the State Department of Justice, educational and employment verification, and reference check(s).
Why work for Laguna Beach: Laguna Beach is a beautiful coastal city located in Orange County, California, with a vibrant art scene and cultural events. We offer competitive compensation and benefits packages, including City paid health insurance for employees, retirement plans, and paid time off. The City has a strong commitment to its employees, providing opportunities for professional growth and development through training and education programs.
Click here for the link to the MOUs. -
ABOUT THE COMPANY
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City of Laguna Beach
Show moreThe City of Laguna Beach was founded on June 29, 1927, and is a small town of picturesque beaches, hiking trails, a walkable downtown, and summer art festivals. Located in southwest Orange County, Laguna Beach occupies 8.84 square miles, has a population of approximately 23,000 and welcomes six million visitors each year.
The City provides a full range of services, including recreational activities, cultural arts events, public works services, transit operations, community development, administrative services, and police, fire, and marine safety protection. Laguna Beach operates under a council-manager form of government. Policymaking and legislative authority are vested in a five-person City Council. The City Manager carries out the policies and ordinances of the City Council, oversees the day-to-day operations of the City, and appoints department heads.
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