Chief of Community Development & Economic Growth

City Of Joliet; Joliet (IL); On-site; USD 110,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

City of Joliet seeks an experienced Director of the Community Development Department to lead planning, zoning, permitting, and neighborhood services. The role oversees six divisions and shapes policy, budget, and service delivery for residents and developers.

The director will coordinate with multiple city departments, advance development projects, and ensure timely, customer-focused permitting and inspections while guiding staff and strategic planning efforts.

Qualifications

• Minimum of ten years of progressively responsible administrative experience in municipal planning, building codes, permitting, economic development, and/or community development.
• At least five years in a supervisory or management role.
• Bachelor’s degree in planning, public administration, architecture, engineering, construction management, or related field.
• Master’s degree and professional certifications are preferred and beneficial to the role.

Responsibilities

• Lead the City’s Community Development Department and supervise six divisions.
• Direct permitting, development review, and occupancy processes from intake to final certificate.
• Develop department policies, procedures, and strategic plans to improve operations.
• Coordinate with Public Works, Engineering, Fire, and other departments for efficient project delivery.
• Prepare and monitor the department budget and allocate resources accordingly.

Skills

Leadership

Budgeting

Public speaking

Interpersonal skills

Policy analysis

Education

Bachelor’s degree in planning or public administration

Master’s degree (preferred)

AICP or related certification (preferred)

Tools

GIS software

e‑plan review

Microsoft Office

Job description

City of Joliet seeks an experienced Director of the Community Development Department to lead planning, zoning, permitting, and neighborhood services. The role oversees six divisions and shapes policy, budget, and service delivery for residents and developers.

The director will coordinate with multiple city departments, advance development projects, and ensure timely, customer-focused permitting and inspections while guiding staff and strategic planning efforts.