Load More

Community Development Department: Career Opportunities for 2026

The Community Development Department is the operational heart of our city's growth, directly managing the programs and policies that shape neighborhoods, foster economic vitality, and ensure safe, sustainable housing for all residents. Our work is tangible, from revitalizing historic commercial corridors and approving new mixed-use developments to administering critical housing assistance programs and enforcing building safety codes. As we look toward 2026, our strategic plan calls for a significant expansion of our team to meet ambitious goals in affordable housing production, climate resilience planning, and neighborhood services enhancement. This expansion will create a diverse array of new job opportunities for dedicated professionals seeking meaningful public service careers where their work directly improves community well-being.

Our 2026 hiring initiative is designed to build capacity in several key areas. We anticipate bolstering our planning division to manage an influx of new development applications and to lead our updated General Plan implementation. Simultaneously, our housing and code enforcement teams require additional specialists to manage increased funding for affordable housing projects and to ensure community safety standards are met as the city grows. These are not just jobs; they are long-term careers with a clear path for professional development within municipal government. We seek individuals who are not only technically proficient but also passionate about collaborative problem-solving and equitable community engagement.

Anticipated Job Openings and Role Descriptions

We project multiple vacancies and new positions across various disciplines within the Community Development Department throughout the 2026 fiscal year. In urban planning, we will be recruiting for Associate Planners and a Senior Planner specializing in environmental compliance. These roles are critical for reviewing development proposals, conducting public hearings, and crafting specific plans for targeted growth areas. Candidates for these planning jobs should possess a strong understanding of zoning law, California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) guidelines, and have demonstrable experience in facilitating community workshops and stakeholder meetings.

Within our Housing Bureau, anticipated job openings include Housing Program Managers and Housing Rehabilitation Specialists. These positions are central to administering state and federal grants, developing partnerships with non-profit developers, and providing direct assistance to homeowners and tenants. Success in these roles requires a meticulous understanding of complex housing regulations, superb financial management skills, and a deep commitment to housing justice. Furthermore, our Building and Safety Division expects openings for Combination Building Inspectors and Plans Examiners. These technical careers are essential for ensuring all construction meets current safety codes, requiring certifications and hands-on field experience.

Beyond these specialized roles, we will also be hiring for essential support positions, including Permit Technicians and Community Development Analysts. These careers serve as the public-facing backbone of our department, guiding residents and developers through the permit process, managing our digital permit tracking system, and analyzing program data for performance reports. These positions offer an excellent entry point into municipal careers in community development, providing a comprehensive overview of departmental operations and opportunities for advancement into more specialized fields.

How to Apply and Hiring Timeline

The application process for Community Development Department jobs is managed through the city's centralized Human Resources portal. We encourage all interested candidates to create a profile and submit their application materials well before posted deadlines. A complete application typically includes a tailored resume, a compelling cover letter addressing the specific position requirements, and any requested supplemental questions. For professional and technical roles, proof of relevant certifications or a degree must be uploaded. It is crucial that applicants carefully review the minimum qualifications for each vacancy, as these are strictly enforced during the initial screening phase conducted by HR staff.

Our hiring timeline for 2026 positions follows a structured process. Job vacancies will be posted for a minimum of two weeks on the city's official employment website. Following the closing date, the review process may take three to four weeks before selected candidates are invited to participate in a panel interview, which often includes a practical skills assessment or presentation.