Director, Permitting & Code Enforcement (Administrator II)

Job no: 557284
Work type: Management (MPP)
Location: San Diego
Categories: MPP, Administrative, At-Will, Compliance/Legal, Full Time, On-site (work in-person at business location)

Position Summary

San Diego State University is seeking a collaborative and strategic leader to serve as the Director of Permitting & Code Enforcement within the Office of Real Estate, Planning & Development. Reporting to the Associate Vice President of Real Estate, & Planning Development and Campus Deputy Building Official, this role leads the University's permitting, inspection, and code enforcement functions in support of SDSU's growing portfolio of capital improvement, infrastructure, and public works projects.

This position plays a critical role in ensuring campus projects are designed, reviewed, permitted, and constructed in compliance with the California Building Standards Code, CSU requirements, and applicable regulatory agency standards. This position partners closely with campus leadership, Facilities Services, Project Management, Planning, Design & Construction, Housing, Academic Affairs, Student Affairs + Campus Diversity, and external agencies to help deliver safe, efficient, and innovative campus environments that support SDSU's academic mission and long-term growth.

This is an exciting opportunity for a forward-thinking professional who enjoys building collaborative processes, leading multidisciplinary teams, improving operational effectiveness, and contributing to transformative projects at one of California's leading public universities.

Key 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.
• Serve as a technical resource on code compliance, constructability, permitting requirements, and regulatory coordination.
• 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.

Position Information

• This is a full-time, at-will role, offering comprehensive benefits.
• Position is designated exempt under FLSA and is not eligible for overtime compensation.
• 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.

Department Summary

The Division of Business and Financial Affairs is responsible for ensuring a safe, productive work environment while providing the highest quality of service in support of academic excellence through thoughtful stewardship of financial, technological, infrastructure, and human resources at San Diego State University.

Permitting & Code Enforcement is an office within the Division of Business and Financial Affairs. The office is under the direct supervision of the Associate Vice President of Real Estate, Planning & Development, who reports to the Vice President of Business and Financial Affairs. Permitting & Code Enforcement is responsible for Building Permit issuance & Inspection Services, including oversight of special inspection services, the CSU Office of Fire Safety, and Office of State Fire Marshal inspections for all University construction projects, infrastructure improvement projects, capital renewal projects, deferred maintenance projects, and tenant improvement projects for the University at large, including the Office of Housing Administration, Foundation, Auxiliaries and outside enterprises such as Cell Service Providers and Public-Private Partnerships (P3s).

Permitting & Code Enforcement is also responsible for ensuring compliance with code requirements outside of construction, including compliance with State and/or California State University (CSU) mandated inspections (e.g., balcony inspections). Typical oversight functions include review of furniture purchases to ensure ADA and Fire Life Safety egress is maintained, as well as review of special projects' requests such as art installations (temporary or permanent). Permitting & Code Enforcement works closely with the University's Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) to ensure compliance with campus Fire & Life Safety requirements, including chemical and equipment purchases by departments for use in research.

For more information regarding the Planning, Design, and Construction department, click here.

For more information regarding the Division of Business and Financial Affairs, click here.

Education and Experience

• 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.

Key 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.
• Incumbent shall have 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.
• Must have 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.

Licenses/Certifications Required

• California Architect's license or the ability to obtain one within 12 months of hire.
• Valid California Driver's License or the ability to obtain one within 30 days of hire.

Compensation and Benefits

At San Diego State University, we value our team members and offer a competitive salary that reflects your qualifications and experience. But that's just the beginning! Our exceptional benefits package is designed to support your well-being and work-life balance:

• Generous Leave Benefits: Enjoy 15 paid holidays, 24 vacation days, and 12 sick days per year.
• Retirement Security: Benefit from a CalPERS defined benefit pension plan, with reciprocity with the UC Retirement Plan, plus retiree healthcare benefits.
• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Access a variety of health, dental, and vision plans at no or low cost to you.
• Educational Opportunities: Take advantage of the California State University system fee reduction program for yourself or a qualified dependent.
• Voluntary Benefits: Opt into additional benefits like Auto & Home Insurance, Life and Disability Insurances, a Legal Plan, Pet Insurance, and the ScholarShare 529 Plan for college savings.

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