Job Description
The City of Downey is seeking a Deputy Director of Community Development - Planning to lead the Planning Division within the Community Development Department. This role is perfect for experienced planning professionals who wish to shape the upcoming of a dynamic, growing metro in Los Angeles County.
The Deputy Director will perform with the Director of Community Development and other division managers to put in place the city's vision through collaborative, business-friendly approaches.
Downey is centrally situated, about 15 miles from downtown Los Angeles and 5 miles from Orange County, with a diverse land employ base and over 112,000 residents. New high-profile developments and key planning projects are on the horizon, making this a pivotal time to join the group.
This role needs a creative problem-solving mindset and a center on achieving community targets through efficient planning and management.
Salary & Compensation
Salary: $142,730 - $174,061 per year.
Qualification
You must have a strong background in urban planning and community development, with expertise in a supervisory or management role.
- Bachelor's degree in Urban Planning, Public Administration, or a closely related field; a Master's degree is preferred.
- At least five years of progressively responsible background in urban planning, such as two years in a supervisory or management capacity.
- Possession of a legitimate California driver's license and a satisfactory driving record.
- American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) certification is very desirable.
- Demonstrated understanding of land use planning, zoning, environmental examine (CEQA), and development regulations.
- Robust communication, negotiation, and public presentation competencies.
- Capacity to operate collaboratively with elected officials, community groups, and developers.
- Know-how with long-range planning, general blueprint updates, and precise blueprints.
- Familiarity with California planning law and municipal codes.
- Proven aptitude to handle multiple projects and gather deadlines.
Duties & Responsibilities
- Oversee the day-to-day operations of the Planning Division, covering current and cutting planning.
- Oversee, train, and evaluate planning team.
- Run the assess and processing of development submissions, such as site schemes, subdivisions, and conditional use permits.
- Lead the preparation and update of the General Plan, specific blueprints, and zoning ordinances.
- Arrange environmental evaluate documents in compliance with CEQA.
- Offer technical assistance and recommendations to the Planning Commission and Town Council.
- Build and carry out policies and procedures to refine planning solutions.
- Collaborate with other city departments, such as Public Functions and Economic Development, on cross-departmental projects.
- Engage with the community through public meetings, workshops, and outreach efforts.
- Get ready and administer the division's budget.
Conditions & Requirements
- Must be capable to function full-time in a normal office environment with occasional evening or weekend meetings.
- Must pass a background verify and pre-employment physical (if applicable).
- Must maintain a valid California driver's license.
- May want to attend Planning Commission and Metro Council meetings outside steady firm hours.
- Must comply with all town policies and ethical standards.
- Probationary period as per metro policy.
Benefits
- Competitive pay variety of $142,730 - $174,061 per year.
- Finalize health, dental, and vision insurance schemes.
- California Public Employees' Retirement System (CalPERS) pension advantages.
- Paid vacation, sick exit, and holidays.
- Deferred compensation scheme alternatives.
- Life insurance and long-term disability coverage.
- Skilled development and training openings.
- Tuition reimbursement for job-related courses.
How You Will Be Evaluated
- Submission examine: All submissions are screened for minimum qualifications and relevant expertise.
- Supplemental questionnaire: You may demand to finish a supplemental questionnaire to assess job-related expertise and expertise.
- Oral interview: Top candidates will be invited for a panel meeting.
- Performance exercise: Some you may be asked to wrap up a written or presentation exercise.
- Reference inspect: Finalists will undergo a thorough reference review.
- Background investigation: A background verify will be conducted for the selected applicant.
- Concluding picking: The City Council or hiring authority will create the closing appointment.
Required Documents
- Wrapped up online submission through the authorized submission portal.
- Supplemental questionnaire (if called for).
- Resume detailing applicable background and education.
- Span letter expressing interest and qualifications.
- Proof of education (transcripts or diploma) may be requested.
- Sound California driver's license (if selected).
How to Apply
- To apply, call on the City of Downey's official professions portal on the official submission portal. Build an account or, then finalize the online submission and any supplemental questions. Attach your resume and include letter. Submit your application before the first review due date of 11:59 p.m. On Wednesday, August 5, 2026. Submissions received after this date aren’t guaranteed consideration. The recruitment may c…
Additional Information
- The first assess of applications will occur on August 5, 2026. Register ahead of time for packed consideration.
- This recruitment is continuous and may close without observe after the first evaluate cutoff.
- The City of Downey is an Matching Chance Employer.
- Veterans and people with disabilities are encouraged to put in.
- For questions about the role, contact the Human Resources Department at (562) 904-7138.
- Accommodations for candidates with disabilities can be requested during the submission routine.
- The role is full-time and exempt from overtime.
- The selected candidate must reside within a reasonable commuting distance to Downey.
About Company
The City of Downey is a vibrant, full-service town based in southeast Los Angeles County. With a population of over 112,000 and a diverse economic base, Downey is known for its sturdy community identity and proactive method to development.
The Community Development Department manages planning, building, and code enforcement to ensure orderly expansion and grade of life. This role is central to shaping Downey's future through innovative planning and community engagement. You should be prepared to perform in a active work setting that values collaboration and effects.
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers to common applicant questions about this position, eligibility and the application process.