The City of Riverside is seeking an experienced and visionary professional to serve as its next Community Development Director. This executive-level position provides leadership and oversight for the City’s planning, zoning, code enforcement, permitting, and economic development activities. Reporting directly to the City Manager, the Community Development Director plays a key role in guiding strategic growth initiatives and fostering high-quality development throughout the community.

The successful candidate will work collaboratively with City staff, elected officials, developers, businesses, regional partners, and residents to advance the City’s long-term development goals. Responsibilities include overseeing the implementation of the City’s Comprehensive Land Use Plan and Unified Development Ordinances, managing development review processes, supervising departmental staff, preparing and administering departmental budgets, and serving as a staff liaison to the Planning Commission and the Board of Zoning Appeals. The position also requires regular interaction with City Council and participation in regional economic development and professional organizations.

The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership, communication, and relationship-building skills, as well as the ability to organize and present technical and policy-related information effectively to a variety of audiences. Experience with zoning administration, land use planning, economic development, project management, and municipal operations is highly desirable.

Candidates should possess a bachelor’s degree in Business, Public Administration, Urban Planning, or a related field, and/or a minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in community development, planning, zoning, economic development, or public administration. Supervisory experience and familiarity with GIS systems, Microsoft 365, and development-related software platforms are preferred.

The City of Riverside offers a competitive compensation and benefits package. Salary is dependent upon qualifications and experience.