Deputy Director of Development Services- Current Planning

About the role

The Deputy Director of Development Services – Zoning & Design Review is a senior leader who helps set direction, align teams, and ensure decisions are consistent, timely, and strategically grounded. The role has historically been a key part of the Department’s leadership team during a period of tremendous growth, strengthening the operational foundation, improving processes, supporting staff, and keeping pace with increasing development volume while maintaining high service standards.

Responsibilities

• Oversee Zoning change case management, ordinance updates, and administration of the Zoning Commission.
• Manage Historic preservation, form-based codes, and downtown design, including Certificates of Appropriateness, code enforcement in designated districts, federal review components, and the boards and commissions that support design and preservation.
• Review and approve Platting and annexation / ETJ coordination, including subdivision ordinance enforcement, coordination of Plan Commission and development review committees, and collaboration across the entitlement and predevelopment landscape.
• Ensure compliance with the urban forestry ordinance, manage Boards of Adjustment administration, and handle related determinations.
• Support Urban Forestry initiatives and ensure compliance with the urban forestry ordinance.
• Administer Code Enforcement in designated districts and handle related determinations.
• Manage Federal review components and ensure compliance with federal regulations.
• Oversee Certificates of Appropriateness and related determinations.
• Manage and administer the Zoning Commission.

Requirements

Required qualifications include:

• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in urban planning, zoning, or related field.
• A bachelor's degree in urban planning, architecture, engineering, or a related field.
• Experience leading and managing teams in a complex, high-stakes environment.
• Proven ability to develop and implement strategic plans and policies.
• Strong understanding of zoning laws, regulations, and best practices.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously.
• Experience with GIS and land use planning software.

Qualifications

Preferred qualifications include:

• Master's degree in urban planning, architecture, engineering, or a related field.
• Experience working with federal agencies and regulatory bodies.
• Experience with form-based codes and urban design principles.
• Experience with historic preservation and adaptive reuse.
• Experience with sustainable development and green building practices.

Skills

Essential skills required for this position include:

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent organizational and prioritization skills.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Knowledge of zoning laws, regulations, and best practices.
• Experience with GIS and land use planning software.

Benefits

The City of Fort Worth offers a comprehensive benefits package including:

• Health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Paid time off and holidays.

Pay

$145,000 - $204,000 annually.

Schedule

This is a full-time position with a competitive salary and benefits package.