Director, Permitting & Code Enforcement

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.

Why Join Us

• Be part of a nationally recognized public research university with a strong commitment to innovation, student success, and community impact.
• Contribute to high-profile campus development and infrastructure projects that shape the future of SDSU.
• Collaborate with talented professionals across planning, construction, facilities, and campus leadership teams.
• Work in a dynamic and mission-driven environment that values inclusion, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
• Experience the energy of a vibrant campus community located in sunny San Diego.

As part of the California State University (CSU) system, San Diego State University helps power one of the largest and most impactful public university systems in the nation. See what it’s like to work at the CSU—watch our video and imagine your future here: Working at the CSU.

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.