Planning Director

The City of Bakersfield is seeking a Planning Director, this is an exceptional opportunity for an experienced, dynamic, and forward-thinking leader to shape the future of the City of Bakersfield, a thriving community committed to sustainable strategic growth. The Planning Director will play an instrumental role in the continued evolution of this vibrant metropolitan community, which enjoys big city services while maintaining a small-town feel.

A critical component in shaping the future will be the completion of the City’s comprehensive 2045 General Plan and the associated 6^thCycle Housing Element. The 2045 RISE campaign guides the preparation of these two pivotal planning tools, which will serve as integrated components in shaping the mission of the Planning Division and the City for the next 20 years.

Reporting to the Development Services Director, this position oversees all activities of the Planning Division. This Division is responsible for a wide range of planning initiatives, including land use, zoning, and environmental review. This position currently oversees 17 department employees and directly supervises the Assistant Planning Director. The Fiscal Year 2024/25 budget for the Development Services Department is approximately $18.4 million dollars.

The ideal candidate is an accomplished strategic leader and creative problem solver who can see the big picture and possesses an unwavering commitment to public service, their employees, colleagues, the organization, and the community. The successful candidate will be someone who is enthusiastic about the opportunity and challenges of overseeing the Planning Division within the Development Services Department. The Planning Director must be a strong decision maker who is committed to their decisions, exhibiting a firm yet adaptable approach to planning initiatives.

Salary : $137,459 - $167,086