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Job Description
JOIN THE CITY OF AUSTIN TEAM
At the City of Austin, we are more than just an employer-we are a vibrant community dedicated to shaping one of the nation's most dynamic and innovative cities. Our guiding principles-Empathy, Ethics, Excellence, Engagement, and Equity - anchor our approach in delivering services that significantly impact the lives of Austin residents. Joining the City of Austin means embarking on a purposeful career, contributing to the community, and being part of a forward-thinking organization that values every employee.
What Makes the City of Austin Special?- Make a Difference: Join a team driving meaningful change in one of the fastest-growing cities in the nation.
- Diverse and Inclusive Workplace: Work in an environment where every voice is valued, and Innovation thrives.
- Competitive Benefits: Enjoy a comprehensive compensation package that includes generous leave, work-life balance programs, and extensive benefits.
- Retirement Security: Plan for the future with the City of Austin Employees' Retirement System.
- Sustainable Transportation Options: Commute easily with access to public transit and bike-friendly infrastructure.
- Focus on Wellness: Stay healthy through wellness programs, on-site fitness centers, and mental health support.
- Career Growth: Advance your skills and expertise with professional development and leadership opportunities.
- Modern Workspaces: Work in innovative and sustainable environments designed to foster collaboration and inspiration.
By joining us, you become part of a community that values its people and is committed to making Austin the most thriving and resilient city in the country.
Job Description:
Purpose:
Under general direction of the Assistant City Manager, this position is responsible for the planning, directing, and leading of development, permitting, and code compliance for the City of Austin.
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, and evaluation of programs and services that support the department’s purpose.
- Manages and leads programs and activities among various City Departments, neighborhood associations, public agencies, and private sector representatives, judicial agencies, and law enforcement agencies.
- Develops a staffing structure that supports the efficient delivery of programs and services.
- Develops and implements short and long-range strategies, objectives, and priorities.
- Briefs and advises City management and Council regarding department programs and services in person and through written reports.
- Builds and manages an effective executive team.
- Responds to and resolves complex and sensitive issues and complaints both internal and external.
- Ensures all activities are carried out in compliance with City and departmental policies and procedures, local, state, and federal regulations and laws governing activities.
Responsibilities - Supervisor and/or Leadership Exercised:- Responsible for the full range of supervisory activities including selection, training, evaluation, counseling, and recommendation for dismissal
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
Must possess required knowledge, skills, abilities, and experience and be able to explain and demonstrate, with or without reasonable accommodations, that the essential functions of the job can be performed.- Knowledge of fiscal planning and budget preparation.
- Knowledge of the principles and practices of public administration.
- Knowledge of Federal, State, and Local laws and ordinances governing development and code compliance.
- Skill in directing the activities of a complex and diverse organization.
- Skill in oral and written communications.
- Skill in handling multiple tasks and priorities.
- Skill in data analysis and problem solving.
- Skill in using computers and related software applications.
- Ability to interpret, recommend and propose revisions to state statutes and city ordinances.
- Ability to consistently, effectively, and tactfully communicate with people at many levels.
- Ability to communicate complex, technical issues in non-technical terms to the general public.
- Ability to use an equity lens and framework to create inclusive, diverse, and safe workplaces and community programs.
- Ability to manage diversity, understand inclusion, and work with diverse communities/populations to build constructive and effective relationships.
- Ability to develop and maintain effective working relationships with City employees, the public, elected officials, and boards and commissions.
Minimum Qualifications:- Graduation with a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in Business Administration, Public Administration, Urban Planning, or in a field related to the job, plus seven (7) years of related experience, five (5) years of which were in a managerial capacity.
- Master’s degree may substitute for experience up to a maximum of two (2) years.
Licenses and Certifications Required:- Valid Texas Class C Driver’s License
Preferred Qualifications:- Executive-level leadership experience managing large, complex organizations with responsibility for development, permitting, or code compliance 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 change 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.
Notes to Candidate:
To view the City of Austin recruitment video, please click here.
Working with the City of Austin provides a number of health and welfare benefits such as low-cost medical, dental, vision, paid leave time, a highly competitive retirement plan, training opportunities and more. Please click HERE for more information.
Austin Development Services
Austin Development Services supports a vibrant community through responsible development. This department ensures the safety of Austin’s built environment through review, permitting, inspection, and code compliance processes so that all structures and land uses comply with local, state, and national codes and regulations. Our commitment is to steward the community through the development process with consistency, connection, and credibility. By focusing on customer-centric practices , our goal is for every resident and stakeholder to feel supported and satisfied when working with Austin Development Services.
Salary Range: Commensurate based on experience and the approved salary range.
Location: 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Dr, Austin, TX 78752
Days and Hours: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM; Monday - Friday.
*Hours may vary depending upon business needs. This position is on-site.
Regarding Your Application:- A detailed and complete Employment Application is required. A Resume and Cover Letter are required and will not be accepted in lieu of a complete online Employment Application.
- Verification of employment history dates on resume should match online Employment Application.
- This position requires a Criminal Background Investigation (CBI).
- A first review of candidates will occur on October 13, 2025. To apply, candidates must complete this online application. Interested candidates should apply early in the process for optimum consideration.
Note: Information submitted for consideration may be made available to the public in compliance with the Texas Open Records Act.
EEO Statement for City of Austin:
The City of Austin will not discriminate against any applicant or employee based on race, creed, color, national origin, sex, gender identity, age, religion, veteran status, disability, or sexual orientation. In addition, the City will not discriminate in employment decisions on the basis of an individual's AIDS, AIDS Related Complex, or HIV status; nor will the City discriminate against individuals who are perceived to be at risk of HIV infection, or who associate with individuals who are believed to be at risk.
City of Austin is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. If you require reasonable accommodation during the application process or have a question regarding an essential job function, please call (512) 974-3210 or Texas Relay by dialing 7-1-1. - Make a Difference: Join a team driving meaningful change in one of the fastest-growing cities in the nation.
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ABOUT THE COMPANY
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City of Austin
Show moreThe City of Austin
This vibrant and dynamic city tops many lists for business, entertainment, and quality of life. One of the country’s most popular, high-profile “green” and culturally rich cities, Austin was recently selected the number one Best Place to Live in the U.S. (U.S. News & World Report). In 2016, Forbes named Austin the city most likely to prosper over the next decade on their America’s Cities of the Future list, and the City of Austin ranked in the top ten on the Forbes list of America’s Best Employers for 2017.
Austin continues to lead with its vision of being the Most Livable City in the Country, emerging as a player on the international scene with such events as SXSW, Austin City Limits, Formula 1, and being home to companies such as Apple, Samsung, Dell, and Ascension Seton Healthcare. From the home of state government and the University of Texas to the Live Music Capital of the World and its growth as a film center, Austin has gained worldwide attention as a hub for education, business, health, and sustainability.
The City offers a wide range of events, from music concerts, food festivals, and sports competitions to museum displays, exhibits, and family fun. Austin is also home to a wonderful ballet, world-class museums, one-of-a-kind shopping, and beautiful outdoor spaces. You can just as easily spend your morning paddling the lake as you can strolling through a celebrated history museum.
Located at the edge of the Texas Hill Country—rolling terrain of limestone bluffs, springs, rivers, and lakes—Austin’s temperate climate is ideal for year-round jogging, cycling, hiking on the City’s many trails, or swimming at Barton Springs or one of the area’s many other swimming holes.
There are a number of excellent golf courses in the area as well as recreational opportunities for rowing, kayaking, canoeing, camping, rock climbing, disc golf, mountain biking, fishing, and more. Austin truly has something to offer for everyone.
City Government
The City of Austin is a progressive, full-service municipal organization operating under the Council-Manager form of government. Austin has a 10-1 council system with an at-large Mayor and Council Members that represent ten districts. The Mayor and Council Members may serve in their respective seats for four years with a maximum of two consecutive terms.
The City Council appoints the City Manager who is the chief administrative and executive officer of the City. The City Manager is responsible for guiding and directing day-to-day operations, as well as providing strategic research, recommendations, and management leadership to the City Council on the city budget, programs, policies, and services. The City Manager implements the organization’s administrative responsibilities with a strong team of Assistant City Managers and department executives. Supported by a staff of more than 14,000 and a budget of $4.1 billion, the City Manager and staff deliver a broad range of services to the citizens of Austin.
The City Council and City Manager of Austin are committed to the mission of delivering the highest quality, cost-effective services. Austin is a beacon of sustainability, social equity, and economic opportunity; where diversity and creativity are celebrated; where community needs and values are recognized; where leadership comes from its community members, and where the necessities of life are affordable and accessible to all.
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