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Job Description
Director of Community Development
Arroyo Grande, California
The City of Arroyo Grande, founded in 1911, is a vibrant Central Coast community of 18,000 residents located midway between Los Angeles and San Francisco in scenic San Luis Obispo County. Spanning just over five square miles, it offers exceptional quality of life with small-town charm, natural beauty, and a strong sense of community. Surrounded by the Pacific Ocean, foothills, and wine country, Arroyo Grande features attractive neighborhoods, excellent schools, and a thriving local economy. Its historic downtown—“the Village”—anchors the city with preserved architecture, boutiques, and dining. Learn more at www.arroyogrande.org.
The City of Arroyo Grande is seeking a dynamic, forward-thinking Director of Community Development to lead a department at a pivotal moment. The ideal candidate brings fresh perspective, urgency, and the leadership skills to develop and inspire a high-performing team. The next Director will help complete the General Plan update, lead the comprehensive development code update, and prepare for the next Housing Element cycle. They will also guide redevelopment of the East Grand Avenue corridor and support ground-up planning for two additional focus areas that have the potential to positively reshape the community.
Beyond technical expertise, the City is looking for a coach and culture-builder who encourages creative thinking, professional standards, and ownership. The Director will empower staff to evaluate projects thoughtfully, apply codes confidently, and guide applicants toward solutions aligned with the City’s vision. A strong planning background is preferred, but the City Manager is open to broad experience for candidates with sound judgment, clear communication skills, and the ability to navigate complex, high-visibility issues.
This is an exceptional opportunity for a collaborative, solutions-driven leader—seasoned or rising—to influence a high-expectation department and make a lasting impact on a well-regarded Central Coast community.
The salary range for this outstanding opportunity is $170,739.29 - $207,534.60 plus a 3.5% COLA in July 2026. Placement within the range is based on qualifications.
Please submit your cover letter and resume (including month/year of employment) via our website:
Peckham & McKenney
Feel free to contact Maria Hurtado at (831) 247-7885 if you have any questions regarding this position or recruitment process.
Filing Deadline: May 12, 2026
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Job Requirements
see above
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Special Instructions
Please visit our website at www.peckhamandmckenney.com to apply for this opportunity.
Please mention you found this employment opportunity on the CareersInGovernment.com job board.
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ABOUT THE COMPANY
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Peckham & McKenney
Show moreWith over 50 years of combined experience in executive search, management and local government, Peckham & McKenney brings a high level of understanding and service to their clients and candidates.
Peckham & McKenney provides Executive Search and Consulting services to local government agencies throughout the Western United States and is headquartered in Sacramento, CA, with an office in Lake Tahoe and a presence in Denver, CO.
Peckham & McKenney was established on the premise that an executive search and consulting firm must be dedicated to providing its clients and candidates with professional service, as well as a personal, hands-on approach. Our business philosophy centers upon the understanding that this is a "people" oriented industry and that attention to others' needs is the key to providing excellent customer service. Not only are we committed to providing our clients with well-qualified candidates, but we also take pride in treating both clients and candidates with the utmost respect that they deserve.
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