Search Jobs

The City of San Mateo Community Development Department is seeking an

Assistant/Associate Planner

Why Join our Department?

The Community Development Department, also known as CDD, is organized into four core divisions — Planning, Building, Code Enforcement, and Housing.  CDD has broad responsibilities including, but not limited to, long-range planning, review of applications for new developments, construction permitting and inspection, and implementation of the City’s housing and code enforcement programs. You will be joining a talented team in a fast-paced, dynamic work environment dedicated to serving the San Mateo community.  The Community Development Department’s core function is to ensure a quality-built environment, healthy neighborhoods, and a strong economic base in the City.  The Planner positions are integral to CDD’s team of highly motivated professionals who work closely with internal and external customers to provide comprehensive planning services to the community. Collaboration, innovation, respect, accountability, creativity, transparency, thoughtfulness, and informed risk-taking are attributes and competencies that we are seeking in the candidate.

With the recent adoption of a new General Plan and an updated Housing Element, the Planning Division is poised to lead multiple exciting initiatives in the coming years. These include a comprehensive Zoning Code Update, the implementation of over 100 Housing Element policies and programs, a historic policy update, and a full update to the City’s Downtown Area Plan. Additionally, a variety of significant planning projects, including multi-family and mixed-use developments around the City’s Caltrain stations and Downtown, are currently in the pipeline. If you are a planner eager to contribute to impactful projects and policy initiatives, San Mateo offers the ideal environment to make a meaningful difference.

The City’ Planning Division is a team of 11 planners and is currently seeking a qualified Associate Planner to fill this role.

Look to some of the reasons why the City of San Mateo is a great place to work, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_GTIzeSpc_g

What You’ll Do

The Assistant Planner/Associate Planner performs professional level work in the field of current planning and/or advance planning to promote the City’s Mission and Values. The current vacancy may be filled at either level based on experience.

Assistant Planner - is the entry level class in the professional planning series and is distinguished from the Associate Planner by the performance of less complex tasks and duties in the fields of current or advance planning, which require the application of fundamental planning principles. Assignments are generally limited in scope and within the design and procedural framework established by higher level employees. However, as experience is acquired, the employee performs with increasing independence. Since this class is typically used as a continued training class, employees may have only limited work experience.

Associate Planner - is the journey level class in the professional planning series and employees within this class are distinguished from the Assistant Planner by the performance of the full range of duties as assigned, which require the application of professional knowledge and skills to various municipal planning, zoning, and environmental problems and the preparation of specific reports and plans. The position provides opportunity for independent judgment in planning work details and making technical determinations. Work in this class is distinguished from that of Assistant Planner by the greater complexity of assignments including preparing zoning code and general plan amendment studies, and by the greater independence with which the incumbent is expected to operate. Employees at this level receive only occasional instruction or assistance as new or unusual situations arise, and are fully aware of the operating procedures and policies of the work unit. Positions in this class are flexibly staffed and are normally filled by advancement from the lower class of Assistant Planner or, when filled from the outside, require prior professional planning work experience.

The Assistant Planner receives general supervision from a Senior Planner or higher level department personnel. The Associate Planner receives direction from a Senior Planner or higher level department personnel and may exercise technical and functional supervision over lower level staff as assigned.

For a complete list of duties for these Planner positions, reference our job specifications at https://www.cityofsanmateo.org/DocumentCenter/Index/86

Part-Time Opportunity - City of Live Oak Planning Department 

Build your skills, work with professionals, and contribute to meaningful projects that make a positive impact in our community. 

Hourly rate: DOQ

DEFINITION

The City of Live Oak Internship Program is designed to attract, develop and mentor innovative individuals interested in pursuing a career in the public sector. The program seeks dedicated students who, through their academic achievement and/or employment history, have demonstrated high potential for a career in local government. Interns are encouraged to apply for full-time positions with the City after their internship is completed.

CLASS CHARACTERISTICS

Interns generally work under close supervision and perform simple or routine tasks while learning to perform the more difficult and responsible ones. Interns are hired as limited term employees and employment service is dependent on the length of the project or the particular City service needs.

Intern positions are by their nature temporary employment and Interns are not eligible for City benefit programs unless specifically approved in writing by the City Manager.

The work schedule is typically part-time 15-20 hours per week with flexibility to work 30 to 40 hours per week depending on the needs of the Intern and the City program assigned. Interns with significant experience in their assigned area may be eligible to move along the assigned Salary Band with the specific approval of the City Manager.

Intern positions are not permanently funded and may be terminated at any time.

EXAMPLES OF DUTIES

• May review and route routine planning documents, petitions, permits, packets and records; analyze environmental checklists and environmental information forms and make specific recommendations following department procedures;
• May assist professional and technical staff with special projects including surveying, data gathering and reporting, analyses and computerized report presentations;
• May respond to basic inquiries from the general public and resolve issues related to the City's planning and zoning procedures and specific permits; research and provide information to City staff and the general public regarding land use issues and standard environmental documentation;
• May perform a variety of activities relating to the development of financial and statistical reporting, including accumulating, analyzing and tracking of revenues and expenditures; analyzes financial trends and develops projections of costs and funding opportunities.
• May conduct surveys, research, and analysis of various departmental issues; may update procedure and policy manuals;
• May answer phones and/or assist the public or others including such tasks as taking messages, responding to questions or requests for assistance, screening and referring to sources of information, providing forms and explaining procedures for completion;
• May prepare bills, orders, notes and receipts, permits, licenses; perform basic arithmetic operations; receive fees when the amount is readily obtainable by simple computations, or from fixed schedules; post data, keep records, and prepare statistical or other types of reports in accordance with predetermined forms and procedures.

Orinda is a delightful place in which to live, work and play!  Join the Orinda Planning Department on a part-time basis in order to build your knowledge and skills working with a professional staff and make a positive impact in our community!

DEFINITION

The City of Orinda Planning Department seeks a responsible and enthusiastic college student or recent college graduate to assist the Department with a variety of tasks.  The ideal candidate will have interest in local government, be able to work both independently and collaboratively, and represent the City in a manner that is professional, effective, and tactful.  Working a flexible schedule of up to 20 hours per week, the Planning Intern will perform responsible work in the areas of both current and long-range planning.

The Planning Intern will be paid on an hourly basis for actual hours worked - up to a maximum of 20 hours per week.   

TYPICAL FUNCTIONS

• Responds to public inquiries regarding zoning and related matters on the phone, via email, and at the Planning Counter.
• Conducts field work, including Planning Final Inspections, site visits, and code-enforcement.
• Assists staff in collecting and preparing data for various planning projects and provides support at community meetings as necessary.
• Conducts basic office functions such as data entry and file management.
• Researches and prepares routine graphic displays/exhibits for use by the Department, Planning Commission, and City Council.
• Drafts reports of limited or variable complexity.

Required Qualifications:

• Strong communication (written and oral), research, and analytical skills.
• Competency in basic computer programs/applications such as Microsoft Office, Google Drive, Box, etc.
• Basic understanding of planning principles.
• Ability to work in a standard office environment including ability to sit, stand, walk, kneel, crouch, stoop, squat, twist, and lift 30 lbs.
• Ability to pass a comprehensive background check and an occupational medical pre-employment physical exam which includes a pre-employment drug screen.
• Ability to obtain a valid California Driver's License.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Coursework and/or experience with aspects of urban planning, long-range planning, urban redevelopment, public policy, civic engagement, stakeholder participation, and governance.
• Ability to remain flexible and work both independently and collaboratively in a diverse and dynamic environment.
• Ability to learn fast and adapt quickly without comprising the quality of work.
• Competency in ESRI ArcGIS.

How to Apply

To be considered for this internship, applicants must submit a completed application, resume, and a supplemental questionnaire online at CalOpps.org before the deadline.  Deadline to apply is June 30, 2025 at 5:00 p.m.

A limited number of applicants with the most desirable qualifications, as determined by initial screening of applications and resume, will be invited to participate in an interview. Applicants will be notified by email if they are invited to participate further in the selection process. For more information, please contact Human Resources at (925) 253-4214 or at humanresources@cityoforinda.org.

The information contained within this announcement may be modified or revoked without notice and does not constitute either an expressed or implied contract.

The City of Orinda is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate against race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex origin or disability.  In accordance with Federal law, the City of Orinda will only hire individuals who are legally authorized to work in the United States.  Candidates with a disability which may require special assistance in any phase of the application or testing process should submit a request for accommodation with the application.  Documentation of the need for accommodation must accompany the request.
 

The City of Lincoln is now accepting applications for Permit Technician I within our Community Development Department. This vital role supports the City's development services by performing a variety of technical permitting tasks, delivering exceptional customer service to the public, and processing permit applications with accuracy and efficiency. If you thrive in a fast-paced environment and enjoy helping your community grow, we invite you to apply and become a key part of our team.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS

Permit Technician I is an entry-level class in the Permit Technician series. Positions in this class typically have little or no directly related work experience and work under immediate supervision while learning job tasks.  The Permit Technician I call is distinguished from the II level by the performance of less than the full range of duties assigned to the II level.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED

Permit Technician I receives immediate supervision from the Community Development Department Director or designee; and technical and functional supervision from an assigned supervisor. 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

The following duties are not intended to serve as a comprehensive list of all duties performed by all employees in this classification, only a representative summary of the primary duties and responsibilities. Incumbent(s) may not be required to perform all duties listed and may be required to perform additional, position-specific duties.

• Responds to routine permitting inquiries and provides customer service to the public at the permit counter and via telephone, email and/or facsimile.
• Provides general information to the public regarding permitting processes.
• Receives and processes various types of permit applications; reviews application for accuracy and completeness.
• Researches and communicates the status of permits to applicants.
• Ensures that all permit records are kept and maintained as required in hard copy and electronic formats.
• Schedules inspections and pulls related permits for the Building Official.
• Calculates permit fees and provides fee estimates as requested.
• Routes plans to various City departments and/or divisions for review and sign-off; tracks plans and ensures their return in a timely manner.
• Perform a full range of technical duties in support of the Community Development Department’s services and activities in both planning and building services divisions including but not limited to, minor plan checks, and review and approve plans and accompanying documents on over-the-counter permits.
• Research, compile and analyze data for special projects and various reports.

KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES

Knowledge of:  Permitting process, policies and procedures; pertinent local, state and federal building, zoning, engineering, planning codes and regulations as it relates to the permit process; City permit and plan check procedures, rules, regulations and guidelines; plan review and inspection procedures; principles and practices used in building and planning processes; land use planning and related construction permitting; organization and operation of the City and outside agencies involved with development approval and coordination; customer service standards and protocol.

Skills: Performing a variety of technical and administrative permitting functions; responding to routine permitting inquiries and providing customer service to the public; processing permit applications and monitoring for compliance; communicate effectively verbally and in writing.

Abilities: Perform detailed, technical and specialized permit support work; make sound, independent decisions with established policy and procedural guidelines; respond to and effectively prioritize multiple phone calls, walk-up traffic and other requests/interruptions; represent the department and the City effectively in meetings with other departments, public and private organizations and individuals; organize and maintain a variety of files and records including those pertaining to permit approvals; coordinate and monitor the progress of permit approvals through City departments and outside agencies; assist customers with obtaining permits; establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees and those contacted in the course of the work.

PHYSICAL, MENTAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL WORKING CONDITIONS

Position requires sitting, standing, walking, reaching, twisting, turning, kneeling, bending, stooping, and squatting in the performance of daily activities. The position also requires grasping, repetitive hand movement and fine coordination preparing permits using a computer keyboard. Additionally, the position requires near and far vision in reading work related documents. Acute hearing is required when providing phone and personal service. The need to lift, drag and push files, paper and documents weighing up to 25 pounds is also required.

THE SELECTION PROCESS

The process may include an in-basket exercise, individual interviews, panel interviews and/or other related components.  Only those candidates who have the best combination of qualifications in relation to the requirements and duties of the position will continue in the selection process. The candidate selected for the position will be required to complete a background check including reference checks, fingerprint check, medical exam, drug-screening and/or other related components.

Human Resources will make reasonable efforts in the examination process to accommodate persons with disabilities. Please advise Human Resources of any special needs a minimum of five days in advance of the selection process exam by calling (916) 434-3229 or emailing hr@lincolnca.gov. The City of Lincoln is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

The information contained herein is subject to change and does not constitute either an expressed or implied contract.

The City of Auburn is looking for an Associate Planner to join team. We're looking for an individual to help convey land development policies, process various land use applications, and present impactful reports. Join our team and play a key role in shaping our community's future!

SUMMARY DESCRIPTION

Performs technical and paraprofessional work supporting both the department and City planning operations including current and long-range planning,  environmental compliance review, processing development proposals, interacting with applicants, developers, consultants, the public, and external agencies, organizations and community groups, and other technical-level functions.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS

A paraprofessional classification requiring administrative, analytical, and specialized technical skills to perform semi-complex municipal planning duties. The role is distinguished from lower classifications by its scope of work and requirements for specialized training and technical proficiency in planning. This classification performs recurring tasks and solves problems independently under general supervision from the department director or assigned supervisor, and does not exercise supervision over staff.

REPRESENTATIVE DUTIES

The following duties are typical for this classification. Actual work may vary based on department needs or change due to evolving business practices.

• Perform a wide range of administrative, operational, and technical tasks supporting planning programs and functions.
• Process, review, and evaluate plans, required planning documents and construction plans for completeness, consistency, and regulatory compliance.
• Administer zoning, land use, subdivision, and environmental regulations; provide recommendations on project issues, and assist applicants to ensure all requirements are met within established time frames.
• Interact with the public, and internal and external stakeholders;  serve as liaison to City staff, applicants, developers, consultants, and external organizations and agencies regarding City codes, policies, processes, and requirements.
• Conduct site visits; investigate zoning issues and complaints; advise property owners, developers, and the public on relevant City ordinances and regulations.
• Prepare reports and make public presentations to the Planning Commission, City Council, and other public groups.
• Conduct specialized planning studies, research, and analysis for current and long-range planning issues, including environmental evaluations and General Plan updates.
• Develop ordinances, resolutions, and regulations related to planning matters.
• Oversee and coordinate the current planning process including project scheduling for Historic Design Review Committee and Planning Commission, and project review with other staff.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date planning records and data.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORKING ENVIRONMENT

The conditions herein are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential job functions.

Work is performed primarily in a standard office setting with some travel to various on-site locations. Primary functions require sufficient physical ability and mobility to work in the field on-site and in an office setting including stand or sit for prolonged periods of time; occasionally stoop, bend, kneel, crouch, reach and twist; lift, carry, push and/or pull light to moderate amounts of weight; operate office equipment requiring repetitive hand movement and fine coordination including use of a computer keyboard and calculator; occasionally work in outside weather conditions; incumbents may be required to work extended hours including evenings and weekends; ability to operate a vehicle to travel to various locations; verbally communicate to exchange information; vision to see in the normal visual range with or without correction, and read computer screens and printed documents; and hearing and speech in the normal audio range to communicate in person, before groups and over the telephone with or without correction.

The City of Burlingame is accepting applications for the position of Assistant/Associate Planner

Our diverse team of employees welcomes you to apply. We are a small city that gets a lot done, and each member of our team is vital to our success as an organization. We recently asked our employees what they enjoyed most about working for the City of Burlingame, and their responses fell into five general categories:

• Colleagues
• Community
• Location
• The Work
• The Benefits

Browse the Burlingame Welcome Brochure for more information about why employees love  working here or view our City of Burlingame is a Great Place to Work Video: 

Welcome Brochure 

City of Burlingame is a Great Place to Work Video

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS 

The duties and responsibilities listed below are illustrative only and are not meant to be a full and exhaustive listing of all of the duties and responsibilities of the classification. Duties may include, but are not limited to:

• Participating in implementation of goals, objectives, policies, and priorities of the Planning Division;
• Review and manage current planning applications such as design review, conditional use permits, administrative permits, environment documents of various scales and complexities;
• Able to manage multiple planning projects independently while working effectively with other City departments, developers, and community members;
• Providing technical assistance to the public regarding planning matters, including assisting at the public counter;
• Reviewing architectural and construction plans, development applications, and preparing comprehensive written and oral reports;
• Attending meetings and making presentations before the Planning Commission and/or City Council, as required;
• Perform advance planning assignments such as Zoning code amendments, General Plan amendments, Specific Plans, Housing Element implementation, and various other assignments;
• Establishing good working relationships and working cooperatively with all City departments; and
• Participating in zoning code enforcement as necessary; and other duties as assigned.

Applications are being accepted for the position of Associate Planner with the City of South San Francisco in the Economic & Community Development Department. 

APPLICATION DEADLINE:  THURSDAY, JULY 3, 2025, OR UPON RECEIPT OF THE FIRST 100 ONLINE APPLICATIONS, WHICHEVER OCCURS FIRST.

THE CITY OFFERS AN ATTRACTIVE BENEFIT PACKAGE, AS WELL AS CALPERS RETIREMENT PLAN AND SOCIAL SECURITY PARTICIPATION.

The Department

The Department of Economic and Community Development includes four dynamic divisions that together are responsible for the preservation and improvement of the physical and economic conditions of the South San Francisco community.

The Planning Division is responsible for drafting long-range plans and policy documents, processing applications for new development, reviewing the design of new construction to promote high-quality urban design and to ensure compliance with the City's Zoning Ordinance and development standards, administering the General Plan, Zoning Ordinance, and planning permits, and fostering careful consideration of historic structures and resources.

The City of Sausalito Invites Applications for the Position of 

PRINCIPAL PLANNER

(Salary: $9,286 - $12,382 Monthly) 

($4,286 - $5,715 Biweekly) 

Plus an excellent benefits package

Open until filled; First Review cutoff 5/5/25 at 7:59AM  

Under general direction, the Principal Planner performs the most complex and sensitive planning duties; and serves as staff resource in technical areas to plan, organize and coordinate programs and projects for professional, technical and clerical staff in a fast-paced work environment and highly engaged community. The Principal Planner provides supervision of the current and long-range planning projects and programs. Exciting long-range projects include the Housing Element Update and a variety of housing-related initiatives.

TO VIEW JOB ANNOUNCEMENT, CLICK JOB PDF OR JOB ANNOUNCEMENT URL BELOW.