Director of Planning, Development Services & Housing

As the capital city of Kansas, Topeka is a thriving community with a commitment to sustainable growth, community engagement and affordable housing. The City of Topeka is seeking an innovative and strategic professional to join its executive leadership team as its Director of Planning, Development Services and Housing. This position provides leadership and oversees the day-to-day operations of the department, playing a key role in planning, building services, and community development programs.

What you'll do:

• Provide leadership and oversight for planning, development, zoning, building and housing functions.
• Develop and implement strategies, policies and principles that align with community needs and Governing Body priorities.
• Attend all meetings of the Governing Body, Directors, Planning Commission, Committees and Boards as appropriate.
• Develop and administer the department’s annual budget and goals.

The ideal candidate is:

• Knowledgeable in planning legislation, development processes and housing policy.
• A demonstrated leader with the ability to motivate teams, manage budgets, and balance multiple projects and priorities.
• A critical thinker with the ability to analyze information, solve complex problems, and make sound decisions.
• An excellent communicator with the ability to effectively provide guidance and expert advice across all levels of the organization.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in city or urban planning, public administration, finance or closely related field is required with five years of experience in current and long-range city planning, economic development, housing services, or development services including supervisory and administrative experience.
  • Master’s degree in planning, public administration or a related field or possession of an AICP or CEcD certificate is desirable.
• Without a bachelor’s degree, a high school diploma or its equivalent is required with nine years of experience in current and long-range city planning, economic development, housing services, or development services including supervisory and administrative experience.

Annual Entry Salary: $130,000 - $160,000 depending on qualifications

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The City of Topeka offers a competitive compensation and benefits package, including:

• Medical, Dental, Prescription and Vision Insurance
• Paid Life/Long Term Disability Insurance
• Generous Paid Vacation & Holidays
• KPERS 401(a) Retirement Plan
• (457) Deferred Comp Savings Plan
• Short-Term Disability Insurance
• Free Onsite Health & Wellness Clinic
• Full-service fitness facility
• Employee Assistance Program

The City of Topeka is an Equal Opportunity Employer