Director of Community Development & Planning

Gulfshoresal; Grand Junction, Northern (CO, KY); Hybrid; USD 190,000 - 220,000; Full time

Job summary

The City of Grand Junction seeks a Community Development Director to lead the Community Development Department, guide long-range planning, housing initiatives, and historic preservation, and report to the Deputy City Manager.

The ideal candidate will communicate clearly with City Council, developers, and residents, manage budgets and grants, build relationships, and drive redevelopment aligned with the City's growth goals.

Qualifications

• Seven (7) years of increasingly responsible community development experience, including three (3) years in management/administration.
• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in urban planning, public administration or related field. Master’s degree preferred.
• American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) certification.
• Possession of, or ability to obtain, a valid Colorado Driver’s license.
• Possession of, or ability to obtain, the City of Grand Junction Leadership Track certification within two (2) years of appointment.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic and operational leadership for the City’s Community Development Department, including planning and development services, historic preservation, housing, and related community development initiatives.
• Lead department priorities, budget development, grant administration, complex development and funding agreements, and continuous improvement of development review and permitting services.
• Build and maintain effective relationships with City Council, Planning Commission, community members, developers, economic development partners, and other internal and external stakeholders.
• Identify and respond to complex, sensitive, and highly visible community development issues while balancing regulatory requirements, customer service, organizational priorities, and community interests.
• Partner with the City Manager, economic development organizations, and other community partners to advance major redevelopment and economic development initiatives throughout the community.
• Lead, develop, and support a high-performing team through clear expectations, accountability, collaboration, and professional development.

Education

Bachelor's degree in urban planning/public administration or related field

Master’s degree (preferred)

Job description

The City of Grand Junction seeks a Community Development Director to lead the Community Development Department, guide long-range planning, housing initiatives, and historic preservation, and report to the Deputy City Manager.

The ideal candidate will communicate clearly with City Council, developers, and residents, manage budgets and grants, build relationships, and drive redevelopment aligned with the City's growth goals.