Deputy Planning & Development Director


Salary
$126,276.80 - $171,579.20 annually
Job Region
West
Department/Division
Planning & Development Director - Inspections Division
Organization
City of Phoenix
City
Phoenix
State
Arizona
Job Requirements

  • Five years of professional planning or engineering experience.
  • One year in code administration.
  • Bachelor's degree in urban planning, architecture, engineering or a related field.
  • Other combinations of experience and education that meet the minimum requirements may be substituted.
  • All finalists for positions are subject to a criminal background check applicable to the department or position.
  • Some positions require the use of personal or City vehicles on City business. Individuals must be physically capable of operating the vehicles safely, possess a valid driver's license and have an acceptable driving record. Use of a personal vehicle for City business will be prohibited if the employee is not authorized to drive a City vehicle or if the employee does not have personal insurance coverage.
Preferred Qualifications:

The minimum qualifications listed above, plus:

  • Experience managing and overseeing inspection services.
  • Professional Engineering or Architecture Licensure: Licensed as a Registered Architect or Engineer (Electrical, Mechanical, Civil, Structural, or Fire Protection).
  • Experience participating in the International Code Council Code Adoption process.
  • Certified Construction Manager: Demonstrated proficiency in construction management.
  • Code Inspector Certification: Successfully obtained certification in one or more of the following areas:
  • Building Inspector (Residential, Commercial, and/or Combination),
  • Electrical Inspector (Residential, Commercial, and/or Combination),
  • Mechanical Inspector (Residential, Commercial, and/or Combination),
  • Plumbing Inspector (Residential, Commercial, and/or Combination).
  • Plans Examiner Certification: Certified in plan examination.
  • Specialized Code Certifications: Recognized expertise in one or more of the following: Code Specialist (in disciplines such as Building, Electrical, Fire, Mechanical, Plumbing, Housing & Zoning, or Energy)
  • Master Code Professional,
  • Master of Special Inspection,
  • Certified Building Official,
  • Certified Fire Marshal,
  • Certified Sustainability Professional.

Job Description

The Planning & Development Department is seeking an experienced leader to oversee the Inspections Division. As Deputy Director, you will be responsible for directing and coordinating all inspection activities to ensure compliance with city building, safety, and construction regulations. This role involves overseeing teams of inspectors and supervisors who conduct building and civil inspections, review construction plans, and issue necessary permits. You will ensure that all inspections are conducted according to city codes and ordinances, working closely with internal and external stakeholders to support safe and compliant development projects across the city.

This position operates with significant independence and reports directly to the Assistant Development Services Director. Strong leadership, a thorough understanding of inspection procedures, and technical expertise are essential to success in this role.

Responsibilities:

  • Lead and manage inspection teams ensuring that all building and safety inspections comply with applicable City codes and regulations.
  • Supervise and train inspection staff, developing standards and procedures to ensure consistency and quality across all inspections.
  • Coordinate inspections for a variety of construction projects, including residential, commercial, and public buildings.
  • Guide inspectors in resolving complex construction compliance issues and interpreting city regulations.
  • Review inspection reports and construction documents to verify adherence to city codes.
  • Collaborate with engineers, contractors, developers, and city staff to resolve inspection-related challenges and ensure projects meet safety standards.
  • Participate in the development of inspection policies, procedures, and codes to improve overall service delivery.
  • Conduct hearings and make decisions on requests for variances, interpretations, and use permits.
  • Represent the Inspections Division in public meetings, negotiations, and communications with the City Manager, Mayor, City Council, and the general public.
  • Participate in the formulation of department-wide policies and contribute to achieving department goals and objectives.

Ideal Candidate:

The ideal candidate for this position will hold, or be able to obtain during probation, the International Code Council certification of a Certified Building Official (CBO) and extensive knowledge of building inspection processes, construction regulations, and safety codes. They will possess a strong background in public administration and personnel management, with proven ability to lead and supervise a diverse team of inspectors and supervisors. Familiarity with City Construction Codes, Zoning Ordinances, and safety standards across a variety of building projects is essential.

This individual will demonstrate exceptional leadership skills and the ability to resolve complex construction compliance issues. Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities are crucial, allowing the candidate to effectively engage with stakeholders such as engineers, contractors, city officials, and the public.

Job type
Full-Time
Degree Desired
Bachelor's
Apply By Date
October 22, 2026
Apply By Time
11:59 p.m. Arizona