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Assistant Community Development Director

City of Malibu / Malibu, CA Posted on: August 1, 2025 Application Deadline: 8/24/2025

Job Description

The ideal candidate is a seasoned and strategic leader with deep expertise in municipal planning, urban development, and community engagement. Must possess a strong understanding of zoning, general plans, housing, site planning, and coastal development, with the ability to lead complex planning initiatives and manage cross-functional teams. This individual demonstrates a solid command of organization and management principles, excels at policy development, and is experienced in budget administration, contract oversight, and regulatory compliance. They are an effective communicator—both written and verbal—capable of making persuasive public presentations and fostering productive relationships with City officials, staff, developers, and the community.

Technically proficient and detail-oriented, the candidate brings a collaborative, customer-focused approach and a commitment to high standards, innovation, and continuous improvement in public service.

Leadership & Supervision:

A proven leader who can effectively select, train, supervise, and evaluate staff, fostering a culture of accountability, continuous learning, and professional growth. Skilled in building cohesive teams and ensuring high-quality service delivery through clear performance standards and constructive feedback.

Program & Project Management:

Experienced in administering intricate planning, redevelopment, and housing programs with minimal oversight. Able to develop and implement goals, policies, and procedures that align with organizational priorities and regulatory requirements.

Analytical & Technical Expertise:

Possesses strong research and analytical skills, with the ability to evaluate data, interpret regulations, and develop sound recommendations. Capable of preparing clear, detailed staff reports and communicating complex information effectively to a wide range of audiences.

Public Engagement & Communication:

An articulate communicator who engages effectively with the public, elected officials, developers, and partner agencies. Comfortable making public presentations, interpreting zoning and planning codes, and resolving community concerns with professionalism and tact.

Strategic & Forward-Thinking:

Adept at evaluating service delivery methods and recommending innovative improvements. Demonstrates strategic thinking and sound judgment in balancing community development goals with regulatory compliance and practical implementation.

Organized & Self-Directed:

Highly organized with the ability to prioritize tasks, manage time efficiently, and meet critical deadlines independently. Brings initiative and discretion to all aspects of work, including site visits, policy interpretation, and stakeholder engagement.

Collaborative & Ethical:

Builds strong working relationships and represents the department with integrity in all interactions. Displays a high level of professionalism, respect, and a commitment to public service values. Required Experience / Skills / Education Education and Experience: Any combination of training and experience which would provide the required knowledge, skills and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required qualifications would be:

Education:

Equivalent to a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in urban planning, community development, business or public administration or a related field.

Experience:

Five (5) years of increasingly responsible experience in planning, zoning, and related community development activities, including two (2) years in a supervisory or management capacity.

Licenses and Certifications:

Possession of a valid California Driver’s License and a satisfactory driving record to be maintained throughout employment. Application Instructions

To apply: