Director, Permitting & Code Enforcement (Administrator II)

About the role

The Director of Permitting & Code Enforcement oversees the University's permitting, inspection, and code enforcement operations related to capital, infrastructure, maintenance, and public works projects. They ensure compliance with CSU policies, California Building Standards Code, California Fire Code, and applicable state and local regulatory requirements. This role partners closely with campus departments, consultants, contractors, architects, engineers, and regulatory agencies to support efficient and compliant project delivery.

Responsibilities

• Provide oversight for the University’s permitting, inspection, and code enforcement operations related to capital, infrastructure, maintenance, and public works projects.
• Ensure compliance with CSU policies, California Building Standards Code, California Fire Code, and applicable state and local regulatory requirements.
• Guide project permitting, design review, inspections, occupancy approvals, and project closeout activities.
• Partner with campus departments, consultants, contractors, architects, engineers, and regulatory agencies to support efficient and compliant project delivery.
• Advance the continuous improvement of permitting and code enforcement processes, procedures, and operational practices.
• Oversee inspection activities, including coordination with the CSU Office of Fire Safety, the Office of the State Fire Marshal, Division of the State Architect, and other governing agencies.
• Provide direction, mentorship, and support to management, represented, and confidential staff responsible for project administration and compliance activities.
• Contribute to campus planning and development initiatives through strategic analysis, collaborative problem-solving, and effective communication.
• Foster a service-centered environment that values accountability, responsiveness, professionalism, and partnership across the University community.

Requirements

• Bachelor of Science degree in Architecture, Business Management, Construction Management, Public Administration, or related degree.
• Five or more years of managerial experience in the delivery of project planning and implementation services, including coordination and work assignments to implement project programming, budgeting, design, bid preparation, construction, and inspection by others.
• Construction administration experience and skills to monitor assigned projects for conformance to contract documents and applicable codes; review and negotiate contractor claims; and actively assist in the resolution of technical and procedural problems.
• Experience working in a service-oriented environment, subject to frequently changing priorities requiring initiative and independent problem-solving.
• California Architectural License – Candidates with NCARB Certification are acceptable with California Licensure required within 12 months of start date.

Qualifications

• Thorough technical knowledge of construction methods and skilled trades, contract language, drafting and specification development, facility maintenance and renewal forecasting; project and construction costs and experience with industry standard cost estimating systems; standard design and construction sequences and durations necessary to prepare, monitor, and manage detailed project schedules; working knowledge of architectural, engineering, and construction practices; familiarity with California and applicable building codes and regulations; and professional design experience to effectively direct and review the preparation of design and construction documents, review and approve contractor submittals, and to effectively resolve field problems during construction.
• Demonstrated experience with creating effective work policies, practices, and procedures. Knowledge of management principles and techniques; knowledge and experience in labor relations, conflict resolution and grievance administration.
• Must possess demonstrated leadership and managerial skills to simultaneously direct professional and trade teams working on unique and technically difficult projects in a complex administrative environment.
• Financial skills to prepare, monitor, and manage detailed project budgets; gather data and information; evaluate independent cost estimates; and review and approve payment requests.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills and ability to prepare concise and professional reports and correspondence.
• Must have demonstrated ability to manage and provide leadership to staff involved in facility development and renewal activities in a major university setting and bargaining unit environment. Must have ability to provide unit supervision and individual work direction, train others in proper work methods and safety practices and provide feedback on work performance.
• The ability to analyze assignments, projects, and issues; act independently to successfully resolve problems, meet deadlines and ensure continuity of operations; must have ability to recognize need and take action.

Benefits

At San Diego State University, we offer a competitive salary that reflects your qualifications and experience, along with a comprehensive benefits package including generous leave benefits, retirement security, comprehensive health coverage, educational opportunities, and voluntary benefits.

Pay

The expected hiring salary for this position ranges from $172,000 - $192,000 annually.

Schedule

This is a full-time, at-will role, offering comprehensive benefits. Standard SDSU work hours are Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., but may vary based on operational needs. The individual hired into this role will work on campus at SDSU in San Diego.