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Development Services Director Jobs in California

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Development Services Director information

What does a Development Services Director do?

A Development Services Director oversees and manages the planning, permitting, and development review functions within a city, county, or organization. They coordinate activities related to land use, zoning, construction permits, and community development, ensuring compliance with local regulations and policies. The director often leads a team of planners, inspectors, and administrative staff, working closely with developers, public officials, and the community to facilitate responsible growth and development. Their responsibilities may also include updating development codes, streamlining processes, and representing the organization at public meetings.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Development Services Director?

To thrive as a Development Services Director, you need a comprehensive understanding of urban planning, project management, and regulatory compliance, typically supported by a degree in urban planning, public administration, or a related field. Familiarity with permitting software, GIS systems, and building codes, as well as certifications like AICP, is often required. Leadership, strategic communication, and problem-solving skills are crucial for managing teams, engaging stakeholders, and resolving complex development issues. These capabilities are vital to ensure efficient service delivery, regulatory adherence, and the successful execution of community development projects.

What are some common challenges faced by a Development Services Director, and how can they be addressed?

Development Services Directors often navigate the complexities of coordinating multiple departments, managing project timelines, and balancing community needs with regulatory requirements. Common challenges include handling conflicting stakeholder interests, maintaining up-to-date knowledge of zoning laws, and ensuring projects stay on schedule and within budget. Effective communication, strong leadership, and proactive problem-solving are key to overcoming these obstacles. Building collaborative relationships with city planners, engineers, and external agencies also helps streamline processes and foster a positive work environment.

What are the most commonly searched types of Development Services jobs in California?

The most popular types of Development Services jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Development Services Director jobs in California?

For Development Services Director jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in California are hiring for Development Services Director jobs?

Cities in California with the most Development Services Director job openings:

Infographic showing various Development Services Director job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Remote job distribution.

Director, Project & Development Services

Cushman & Wakefield

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$205K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 3 days ago


Cushman & Wakefield rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 159 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

111th of 204 rated real estate companies


Job description

Job Title

Director, Project & Development Services

Job Description Summary

The Director is responsible for the successful management of the design, planning and construction of projects by leading individual, multidisciplined real estate solutions for clients. This role is directly accountable for managing and accomplishing all project requirements/objectives determined for the project by client. Director level is expected to develop business opportunities, manage accounts with teams, and be a steward of the CW PDS reputation in the LA market.

Job Description

Essential Job Duties:

  • Regular interface with internal and external clients to ensure successful delivery of project management services, client goals andobjectivesareestablishedand achieved, project action plans are implemented,anticipate/respond to all client needs, andgenerally actas a trusted advisor for comprehensive real estate work.

  • Act with fiduciary responsibility to client projects, including completefinancial managementof project:establishand manage project budgets,maintainmonthly forecasts and cash flow analysis, prepareanticipatedcost reports and any other reports as required by the client.

  • Management of due diligence, programming, design, entitlements, bidding, permitting, procurement, design team selection, schedule creation/management, contractor selection, vendor selection,sustainabilityand post construction services.

  • Demonstrate competence inbroadrange of variedproject typesandoperatein complex /non routineenvironments.Entertainment Industry, Studio Campus, E-Gaming, Office, Manufacturing,and LawFirm experience are allpluses.

  • Be able to adapt tovariousclient platforms andrequirements in an efficient and effective manner.

  • Contribute to business development through identification of project or client opportunities, as well as fostering relationships with industry partners.

  • Oversee capital improvement programs with design and construction processes at multiple sites through local/account-based resources.

  • Knowledge of market consultants and vendors.Negotiate contracts with selectedvendor(s)and manageperformanceof all contracted vendors, consultants, etc.

  • Identifyand address areas of concernregardingpotential liabilities and risk (fee, our reputation,errorsand omissions, etc.) with Market Leader.

  • Providean appropriate levelof on-site supervision to ensure proper performance criteria arebeing met.

  • Demonstrateproficiencyin the use and application of all PDS technology asrequiredfor assigned projects.

  • Active management of PDS staff, including adherence to company policy/procedures, staff development, performance management, and team motivation.Convey and ensure adoption of policies and practices to the team.Be a leader andassistwithmentorship responsibilities as the opportunities arise.

Education/Experience/Training:

  • Bachelor's degree in Architecture, Engineering, Construction Management, BusinessAdministrationor related field. Master's degree preferred. Certificationpreferred.

  • Twelve or more years of related experience with 2 or more years of management experiencerequired.

  • Ability to contribute to the strategic direction of the assigned department or assigned practice area.

  • Advanced project management skills withexpertisein the project management business.

  • Expert in client relations, clientmanagementand consulting.

  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

  • Highly organized with strong analytical skills.

  • A proficient working knowledge of accounting and financial reporting, budgeting,schedulingand processes as they relate to corporate real estate,designand construction.

  • Software skills: MicrosoftOffice applications, MS Project,Smartsheets,ProCore, and AI Skills (a plus).


Cushman & Wakefield also provides eligible employees with an opportunity to enroll in a variety of benefit programs, generally including health, vision, and dental insurance, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life, and disability insurance programs, and paid and unpaid time away from work. In addition to a comprehensive benefits package, Cushman and Wakefield provide eligible employees with competitive pay, which may vary depending on eligibility factors such as geographic location, date of hire, total hours worked, job type, business line, and applicability of collective bargaining agreements.
The compensation that will be offered to the successful candidate will depend on factors such as whether the position is covered by a collective bargaining agreement, the geographic area in which the work will be performed, market pay rates in that area, and the candidate's experience and qualifications.
The company will not pay less than minimum wage for this role.
The compensation for the position is: $ 174,250.00 - $205,000.00Cushman & Wakefield is an Equal Opportunity employer to all protected groups, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. Discrimination of any type will not be tolerated.

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act (ADAAA), if you have a disability and would like to request an accommodation in order to apply for a position at Cushman & Wakefield, please call the ADA line at 1-888-365-5406 or emailAccommodations@cushwake.com. Please refer to the job title and job location when you contact us.

INCO: "Cushman & Wakefield"

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