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The Position

The Town of Los Altos Hills is seeking an experienced and highly motivated Principal Planner to serve as a key leader within the Community Development Department. Reporting to the Community Development Director, the Principal Planner will assist in the management and administration of planning operations, provide leadership and technical guidance to planning staff, coordinate consultant resources, and oversee the Town's most complex current and long-range planning initiatives.

This position is intended to strengthen the Town's planning capacity by providing senior-level expertise and project management support across a broad range of planning activities. The Principal Planner will play a critical role in advancing major policy initiatives, implementing state-mandated planning programs, managing complex development projects, and ensuring the Department remains responsive to the needs of residents, elected officials, and stakeholders.

The Principal Planner serves as a strategic partner to the Community Development Director and works closely with planning staff, consultants, the Planning Commission, City Council, advisory committees, outside agencies, and community stakeholders to advance the Town's priorities and maintain compliance with evolving State planning requirements.

Los Altos Hills is a unique community with a strong commitment to environmental stewardship, wildfire resilience, open space preservation, and thoughtful land use planning. The Principal Planner will help guide the Town through a variety of complex planning efforts, including Housing Element implementation, General Plan maintenance, Safety Element updates, climate adaptation and resilience planning, zoning updates, and review of significant development proposals.

Examples of Duties

Leadership and Administration

• Assists the Community Development Director in the administration and management of the Planning Division.
• Provides leadership, mentorship, technical guidance, and training to planning staff.
• Assists with work planning, project prioritization, performance management, and professional development of planning personnel.
• Coordinates and oversees the work of planning consultants and technical specialists.
• Assists with departmental budgeting, consultant procurement, contract administration, and strategic planning efforts.
• Serves as acting manager for planning operations in the absence of the Community Development Director, as assigned.

Long-Range Planning

• Leads and manages major long-range planning initiatives and policy projects.
• Oversees implementation of Housing Element programs and other state-mandated planning requirements.
• Assists with updates to the General Plan and its elements, including Housing, Safety, Land Use, Open Space and Conservation, and related implementation programs.
• Coordinates planning efforts related to wildfire resilience, climate adaptation, environmental sustainability, hazard mitigation, and emergency preparedness.
• Manages updates to zoning regulations, objective design standards, development regulations, and related planning policies.
• Conducts research and analysis regarding planning legislation, emerging policy trends, and regulatory changes affecting local government.

Current Planning

• Serves as project manager for complex development applications, including residential, institutional, public, and special projects.
• Reviews development proposals for consistency with the General Plan, Municipal Code, zoning regulations, state law, and applicable planning policies.
• Evaluates environmental, design, land use, infrastructure, and community impacts associated with development proposals.
• Coordinates multidisciplinary project reviews involving Planning, Building, Engineering, Fire, Public Works, and outside agencies.
• Provides technical guidance and recommendations regarding planning, zoning, and development issues.

Environmental Review and Project Management

• Oversees and coordinates environmental review activities pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA).
• Manages consultant preparation of Initial Studies, Negative Declarations, Mitigated Negative Declarations, Environmental Impact Reports, and related environmental documents.
• Develops project scopes, budgets, schedules, and consultant contracts.
• Monitors project progress and ensures timely completion of assigned planning initiatives.

Public Engagement and Intergovernmental Coordination

• Prepares and presents staff reports, ordinances, resolutions, policy analyses, and recommendations to the Planning Commission, City Council, and advisory committees.
• Represents the Town in meetings with residents, property owners, developers, consultants, regulatory agencies, and community organizations.
• Responds to public inquiries regarding planning policies, development proposals, and land use regulations.
• Facilitates community outreach and public engagement efforts related to planning projects and policy initiatives.
• Coordinates with regional agencies and partner organizations on planning and environmental initiatives.

Other Duties

• Performs related duties as assigned.

Knowledge Of

• Advanced principles and practices of urban and regional planning.
• California planning, zoning, subdivision, housing, and environmental laws and regulations.
• Housing Element implementation and General Plan administration.
• Safety Element planning, hazard mitigation, wildfire resilience, and climate adaptation strategies.
• California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and environmental review procedures.
• Municipal government organization and administration.
• Project management principles and practices.
• Consultant contract administration and budget management.
• Public engagement and community outreach techniques.
• Principles and practices of supervision, coaching, and staff development.
• Geographic Information Systems (GIS), permit tracking systems, and related planning technologies.

Ability To

• Assist in the management and administration of a municipal planning program.
• Provide leadership, mentorship, and technical guidance to professional planning staff.
• Coordinate and oversee consultant teams and multidisciplinary project teams.
• Manage multiple complex projects simultaneously and effectively.
• Analyze planning, environmental, and policy issues and develop practical solutions.
• Interpret and apply complex laws, regulations, ordinances, and planning policies.
• Prepare clear, concise, and effective reports, presentations, and policy recommendations.
• Build productive working relationships with elected officials, commissioners, staff, residents, developers, consultants, and public agencies.
• Exercise sound judgment in politically sensitive and technically complex situations.
• Communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
• Represent the Department and the Town in a professional and effective manner.

Qualifications

Equivalent to graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with major coursework in urban planning, city planning, environmental planning, public administration, architecture, geography, or a closely related field.

Eight (8) years of increasingly responsible professional planning experience, including substantial experience managing complex planning projects, coordinating multidisciplinary teams, and leading policy development and implementation efforts.

Experience in both current planning and long-range planning is highly desirable.

A master's degree in urban planning, public administration, environmental planning, or a related field is desirable.

Certification by the American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) is preferred. Candidates without AICP certification must demonstrate equivalent senior-level professional planning experience and expertise.

Demonstrated experience with Housing Element implementation, General Plan updates, Safety Element planning, wildfire resilience, climate adaptation, zoning administration, CEQA compliance, consultant management, and public engagement processes is highly desirable.

Experience supervising, mentoring, or providing technical leadership to professional planning staff is desirable.

Possession of a valid California Class C Driver's License and a satisfactory driving record.

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.

Principal Planner | Senior Planner | Associate Planner

One (1) vacancy. Application deadline: Apply by Sunday, June 28, 2026, at 5:00 p.m., for first consideration. 

• Principal Planner: $134,700 - $163,728 annually
• Senior Planner: $116,448 - $141,552 annually
• Associate Planner: $102,912 - $125,088 annually

THE CITY is focused on enhancing our community members’ quality of life through well-designed services and a positive workplace culture. San Rafael is the economic and cultural heart of Marin County, and its high quality of life is centered on its commercial districts, engaged neighborhoods, active lifestyle, and natural environment. San Rafael, with a population of approximately 60,000, is a full-service city with a City Council/City Manager form of government with 12 departments, more than 400 employees, and a fiscal year 2025-2026 annual budget of approximately $192 million. The City’s vision is to be a vibrant economic and cultural center reflective of its diversity. The City Council is engaged and seeks to strengthen the urban and commercial areas as well as sustain the beautiful natural environment. 

San Rafael’s Organizational culture framework is an initiative called “Together San Rafael.” City employees are our greatest asset, and we seek talented individuals with diverse backgrounds who are creative, curious, and excited about a challenge. We are a results-driven team focused on the needs of community members. The Together San Rafael initiative is focused on modernizing City services and increasing the engagement of employees. This initiative recognizes the interconnectedness of the customer and employee experience. 

THE DEPARTMENT

In recent years, the City of San Rafael has seen an unprecedented interest in development and growth, and our department has responded with collaborative focus on creating a thriving, sustainable community that meets the needs of our diverse population. 

The Community & Economic Development Department is comprised of five divisions with a total fiscal year 2025-2026 budget of over $7 million and 24 full-time employees. 

The Community & Economic Development Department is comprised of five divisions: 

• Planning, Building, Housing & Code Enforcement Divisions: Support the City’s land use entitlement, construction and inspection permitting, housing policy, and community code compliance programs.
• Economic Development Division: Creates and maintains a thriving economic environment for businesses and residents by providing resources, primarily through the one-stop-shop “San Rafael Go” Program.

IDEAL CANDIDATE

The Community & Economic Development Department (C&ED) has 1 vacancy to be filled at either the Principal Planner, Senior Planner, or Associate Planner classification. The Planning Division plays a critical role in shaping the future of San Rafael and establishing a positive initial impression for members of the public engaging with the Community and Economic Development Department.

The ideal candidate for the Principal Planner is an experienced planning professional with deep knowledge of California land use and environmental laws, including extensive experience with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and Tribal Consultation.  This individual provides strong technical leadership over the review of development applications and is confident exercising independent authority.  The successful candidate is an effective manager who values consistency, customer service, and can clearly communicate technical requirements to staff, professionals, and the public.

The ideal candidate for the Senior Planner is a seasoned planning professional with strong technical expertise and proven project management experience.  This individual brings comprehensive knowledge of California planning and environmental laws and is skilled in overseeing the review of complex development applications including managing California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) review and Tribal Consultation. The successful candidate is an effective project manager experienced with high conflict and litigious projects, writing and managing proposals, managing consultants, and working collaboratively with various departments. They are comfortable managing large project teams and serving as the primary point of contact for applicants, design professionals, and the public, resolving disputes and complaints with professionalism and sound judgment.  The ideal candidate communicates clearly, collaborates effectively with other City departments and outside agencies, and provides reliable advice and support to the Principal Planner and Planning Manager to ensure the efficient, compliant, and customer-focused operation of the Planning Division. 

The ideal candidate for the Associate Planner is capable of independently processing development applications, including experience with Sign Permits, Design Review, Use Permit, Lot Line Adjustment/Merger, and Variance application types. This individual can prepare and analyze professional planning studies respond to public inquiries regarding the City’s General Plan, Zoning Code, and Subdivision Ordinance, and has experience presenting development projects before public boards and commissions. This candidate has excellent customer service skills and can navigate high conflict situations.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Principal Planner - This list is meant to be representative, not exhaustive. CLICK HERE for the full job spec.

• Plans, organizes, and directs the overall work activities of the long-range planning, current
  planning, and/or permit service programs.
• Reviews and evaluates the job performance of subordinate personnel, identifies professional
  development needs, and provides training as needed.
• Oversees the review and analysis of development proposals or planning studies, including
  participation in more complex and major projects.
• Interprets, implements, and enforces the General Plan, zoning codes, and other codes related
  to the maintenance of community standards.
• Make presentations on planning background recommendations before the Design Review
  Board, Planning Commission, City Council, community groups and organizations.
• Works with other City departments and governmental jurisdictions in coordinating the division's
  programs and projects.
• Conducts research and analysis of land use and related issues. Prepares environmental review
  documents. Prepares written reports.
• Supervises a professional and clerical planning staff.
• Produces and/or Coordinates public events, committee meetings, and community workshops.
• Assists the Director with budget preparation and manages the section’s budget.

Senior Planner - This list is meant to be representative, not exhaustive. CLICK HERE for the full job spec.

• Supervises professional and/or technical staff engaged in City planning activities.
  Establishes priorities and defining processing requirements.
• Responds to questions and issues raised by the City staff, developers, contractors, architects,
  engineers, and the general public; interpret the General Plan, zoning code and related ordinances
  or City regulations.
• Conducts research and special studies.
• Coordinates projects and activities with other City departments and outside agencies.
• Manages consulting contracts for planning projects.
• Makes presentations before community groups, Boards, Commissions and/or the City Council.

Associate Planner - This list is meant to be representative, not exhaustive. CLICK HERE for the full job spec.

• Responds to inquiries from the public by providing information regarding the General Plan, the
  Zoning and Subdivisions Ordinances and statistical data.
• Receives and reviews land use permits, design review applications, zoning and General Plan
  amendments for conformance with the General Plan, Zoning, and Subdivision Ordinances and
  other requirements; and prepares staff reports recommending appropriate action.
• Conducts environmental review including preparation of initial studies and negative declarations,
  technical and administrative support on the preparation of Environmental Impact Reports and staff reports on all phases of environmental review.
• Performs detailed planning studies, research and analysis to support development of long-range
  policies and plans, as well as implementation ordinances for the City’s growth and development.
• Prepares and analyzes various professional planning studies including, but not limited to,
  demographics, traffic and historic resources.
• Prepares General Plan elements such as the Housing Element by drafting and finalizing plan
  documents; researching materials and making presentations to committees, the Planning
  Commission and the City Council.
• Prepares reports and studies and represents the department before the public, other agencies,
  and developer representatives.
• Attends and participates in meetings of the Design Review Board, Planning Commission, City Council, special committees and neighborhood groups.

CORE COMPETENCIES 

Principal Planner

• Highly familiar with California Planning Law, Environmental Quality Act and Subdivision Map Act.
• Capable of leading the long-range planning or current planning programs.
• Communicate effectively, orally and in writing.
• Supervise professional, technical and/or office support staff.
• Manage professional services budget.

Senior Planner

• Familiar with California Planning Law, Environmental Quality Act and Subdivision Map Act.
• Responds to questions and issues raised by the City staff, developers, contractors, architects.
• Manage consultant contracts.
• Coordinate the review of complex development applications.

Associate Planner

• Independently apply the City’s zoning code, subdivision ordinance and general plan.
• Respond to inquiries from the public regarding the City’s General Plan, Zoning Code, and Subdivision Ordinance.
• Capable of presenting to Planning Commission and City Council.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE

Principal Planner

Any combination of education and experience that demonstrates possession of the requisite

knowledges, skill and abilities.

A typical way to obtain these would be:

• AICP Certification or Masters in planning; and
• Five years municipal planning experience including two years in a lead or supervisory position.

Senior Planner

• Graduation from a recognized college or university with a Bachelor’s degree in Planning or related field and five years of increasingly responsible professional planning experience.
• A Master’s degree in Planning may be substituted for one year of experience.
• Public agency experience desirable.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills required.

Associate Planner

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in planning, urban studies, geography or related field and three (3) years of full-time work experience at the Assistant Planner level in municipal or regional planning.
• Any combination of education, experience, and training which demonstrates possession of and competency in requisite knowledge and abilities may substitute for the education (degree) on a year-for-year basis.
• A Master’s degree in planning or a related field may substitute for one (1) year of the required work experience.

All Levels

• Must possess a valid California driver’s license and have a satisfactory driving record.

Under the supervision of the Fire Marshal, is responsible for performing plan review, construction inspections, and other duties as required.   The position will also be involved to varying degrees with public education, public relations, exterior hazard abatement, engine company pre-fire planning, record keeping, and report writing.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Receives supervision from the Fire Marshal. There may be limited supervisory tasks assigned to this classification.  The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

EXAMPLE OF DUTIES

This position is responsible for the review of plans, to ensure compliance with applicable Federal, State, and local fire safety laws, ordinances, and codes. Although not all inclusive the following serve to represent the various types of plans to be reviewed: planning applications; applications for the subdivision of land; site plans for access and water supply; building and tenant improvement plans; fire protection systems including fire sprinkler, fire alarm, kitchen hood extinguishing systems; and other types of plan reviews that are part of various fire code permitted activities.

The position is responsible for performing inspections related to the project and plan review of both new and existing buildings; witnessing various tests required for sophisticated fire protection equipment and verifying proper operation and compliance with applicable codes and standards; prepares necessary correspondence, reports and records; with regards to projects confers with architects, engineers, developers, etc.; attends training courses and meetings of professional organizations as directed. 

Other duties include: attending meetings with other local government agencies such as planning and building departments, architects, contractors, developers, and the general public.  Utilizes the District’s citation process when appropriate and when other means of gaining voluntary compliance are unsuccessful. Provides supervision, work direction and technical assistance as directed. Utilizes tools and technology identified by the District related to performance of tasks. Performs surveys of fire hazards and processes complaints; conducts and participates in public education and public relations programs; performs other related duties as directed. 

We're hiring the person, not just the title.

 

• Deputy Community Development Director - $182,763-$233,258
• Planning Manager -$162,189 -$207,000

Belmont's Community Development Department is hiring, and uniquely, this is one opening that can be shaped by the right candidate. Depending on your experience and qualifications, the City will appoint at either the Deputy Community Development Director or Planning Manager level.

As Deputy Community Development Director, you would step into a senior leadership role working hand-in-hand with the Director to guide the department's overall direction. This is a position for someone with a broad portfolio of experience who is ready to share responsibility for the department's success, represent the City at a high level, and help set the strategic course for community development in Belmont.

As Planning Manager, the focus sharpens around leading the planning function directly, overseeing the Planning Commission, managing a robust pipeline of current development projects, and driving advance planning initiatives tied to City Council priorities. This is the right fit for a strong planner-leader who wants to go deep on planning practice while growing into greater management responsibility.

Both roles involve mentoring staff, improving processes, developing policy, and working in a collegial environment where good judgment and a sense of humor go a long way. Whichever title you come in at, you'll have a genuine opportunity to make your mark on Belmont's future - not from the sidelines, but from the room where decisions get made.

ABOUT THE POSITION

Looking to make a direct impact in a small, community-focused organization? Join a collaborative team working with the Community Development Department, where you’ll play a key role in helping residents and businesses move their projects forward and experience meaningful, service-driven work every day.

The Town of San Anselmo is seeking a motivated Administrative / Permit Services Technician to support the Community Development Department. This mid-level classification performs a wide range of technical and administrative duties with a high degree of independence, primarily in a fast-paced, customer-facing environment.

This hands-on position serves as a primary point of contact at the public counter and requires significant daily interaction with residents, contractors, and other stakeholders. Responsibilities include accepting, reviewing, and tracking building and land development applications; calculating and collecting fees; issuing minor permits; performing data entry and maintaining permit tracking systems; coordinating the distribution of legal notices; maintaining files and records; preparing reports; and supporting website updates.

Success in this role requires delivering a consistently high level of customer service, the ability to manage multiple priorities in a high-volume, fast-paced setting, and a commitment to helping customers navigate processes efficiently and effectively. The position also requires building and maintaining positive, professional working relationships both internally across departments and externally with the public and working effectively with a wide range of individuals while maintaining a respectful, service-oriented approach.

TO LEARN MORE, PLEASE CLICK JOB PDF OR JOB ANNOUNCEMENT URL BELOW.
 

THE CITY OF SEBASTOPOL IS SEEKING A PLANNING PROFESSIONAL!

IS IT YOU?

Now accepting applications for the position of

ASSOCIATE PLANNER

Salary: $7,836 - $9,525 Monthly

$45.21 - $54.95 Hourly

Plus a great benefits package

4/10 Work Schedule Monday- Thursday

This position is OPEN UNTIL FILLED

The City of Sebastopol is seeking a skilled, enthusiastic, and adaptable candidate to fill the Associate Planner position. The Associate Planner performs various complex, professional-level office and field planning work related to current and advanced municipal planning, including the review of development and land use applications, zoning, site plans, and environmental documents. The successful candidate will provide professional advice and assistance to the public on planning, zoning, permits, and environmental review. In addition, the Associate Planner provides complex professional staff assistance to the Planning Director, other departments, and the public. This position requires the ability to exercise sound judgment in the interpretation, application, and explanation of a wide variety of City policies, procedures, and regulations, as well as applicable local, State, and Federal laws.

The Associate Planner will reflect a demonstrative cultural competency working with all community members regardless of cultural differences or circumstances, including race, ethnicity, religion, language, gender identity, age, marital and familial status, sexual orientation, diverse physical and learning abilities, socioeconomic status, and other identities.

JOIN US IN SHAPING THE FUTURE OF THE SEBASTOPOL COMMUNITY!

THE CITY OF SEBASTOPOL IS NOW SEEKING AN EXPERIENCED

PLANNING DIRECTOR

Salary: $136,032 - $165,318 Annually

             $11,336 - $13,777 Monthly

Plus a great benefits package

OPEN UNTIL FILLED

The City of Sebastopol is seeking a dynamic, professional leader who is a collaborative problem-solver to serve as the next Planning Director. The Planning Director will direct, oversee, and materially participate in the work of the City’s Planning Department, including current and long-range planning, maintenance of the General Plan, Housing Element, and zoning codes, and review of proposals for construction and development within the City of Sebastopol. The selected candidate will coordinate activities, permits, and projects with other City departments. In addition to reviewing and preparing recommendations to the Planning Commission on development proposals, and serve as the official secretary and officer of the Planning Commission.

The Planning Director performs professional planning duties in the fields of long-range planning, current planning, and building permitting, including a variety of diverse professional planning assignments. The incumbent will oversee technical reviews and evaluations of land use and permit applications, handle the most complex customer service issues, environmental impact documents, and construction projects, and provide supervision or lead direction to professional and support staff. The director will ensure compliance with all aspects of the City’s General Plan and related ordinances and laws, and perform related work as assigned.

The Planning Director will demonstrate cultural competency working with all community members regardless of cultural differences or circumstances, including race, ethnicity, religion, language, gender identity, age, marital and familial status, sexual orientation, diverse physical and learning abilities, socioeconomic status, and other identities.

This position is exempt from the overtime regulations of the Fair Labor Standards Act and is an “at will” classification serving at the pleasure of and receiving administrative direction from the City Manager.

For more information about this great opportunity, please view the brochure or job description below. 

We’re looking for thoughtful urban planners to join the Planning Department and help us shape Lafayette’s future!

Are you excited about shaping communities and making a lasting impact? The City of Lafayette (pop. 24,000) is looking for an experienced Senior Planner to play a key role in maintaining our city’s charm while supporting thoughtful growth and development.

Located just 20 minutes from San Francisco via BART, Lafayette offers a vibrant downtown, scenic hillsides, and top-rated schools. Our residents value a small-town atmosphere with personalized service, and we need a dynamic planner to help guide the city's future.

Join a team of dedicated, energetic, and talented professionals in a city that truly values its employees. If you have a passion for urban planning, exceptional analytical skills, and a commitment to community development, we want to hear from you.

Please note: Cover Letter is required.

TO VIEW JOB ANNOUNCEMENT, CLICK JOB ANNOUNCEMENT URL BELOW.

The Department of Planning and Development is currently recruiting for one Senior Planner vacancy:

This Senior Planner will play a crucial role in reviewing complex professional-level tasks related to land use and planning laws, zoning, housing, discretionary entitlements with associated report writing for consideration by the County Zoning Administrator and/or Planning Commission, and the review of building permits and environmental analysis under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). The Senior Planner will also serve as the lead on assigned projects, which may include overseeing a number of programs (examples include: County General Plan & Housing Element, Surface Mining and Reclamation Act, Santa Clara Valley Ag Plan, and Habitat Plan) and works independently, assuming responsibility for more complex projects (such as Stanford master planning), and must be resourceful and responsive to specialized assignments from Executive Management or the Board of Supervisors. The Senior Planner may also be responsible for reviewing development and parcel maps/subdivision proposals, as well as building plans, and permits. The County will be embarking upon a comprehensive General Plan Update, and other various vision plans and may be expected to oversee and manage these efforts. The County also processes large and complex private development applications for large private institutional uses, new quarries, places of worship and agricultural processing campuses. A Senior Planner with areas of expertise related to long-range/comprehensive planning and/or major project development processing experience, coupled with strong CEQA experience is desired. 

In addition to meeting the employment standards for a Senior Planner, candidates must possess in-depth knowledge and working experience in two (2) or more of the following areas:

• Preparing advanced California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) documents (e.g., Initial Studies, Mitigated Negative Declarations, Environmental Impact Reports).
• Experience in complex medium- to large-scale development entitlement projects such as campus planning, industrial, commercial, housing, agricultural housing or processing developments, or similar projects requiring advanced CEQA processing, staff report writing, data management and analysis, public outreach and public hearings.
• Experience in the management of CEQA and technical consultants, including meeting coordination, reviewing work products, and contracting/billing. Experience in managing consultants to ensure the project is completed within the approved timeline and budget with the proper deliverable is required.
• General requirements of the Surface Mining and Reclamation Act (SMARA), preparation of annual surface mining inspection reports, and review and approval of Financial Assurance Cost Estimate (FACE), Reclamation Plans, and Mining Plans (desired, not required).
• Analytical understanding of State laws and regulations impacting land use and local government, with directly related work products that include major ordinance revisions and creation and processing of new programs. This would include preparation of professional staff reports of summarized data, conclusions and recommendations.
• Have conducted as a lead project manager or co-project manager long-range, comprehensive planning projects; e.g., general plan updates, major zoning ordinance amendments, specific plans, vision plans, etc., with working knowledge of the principals and practices of such working documents.

Filing Period and Application Procedure

Final Filing Date: Open until filled. The recruitment may be extended or closed as early as 10 days after the issue date.  You are encouraged to apply as soon as possible and to monitor this site for updated closing information.

The first review of applications is tentatively scheduled for the week of August 04, 2025.

TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THIS POSITION, PLEASE CLICK THE JOB ANNOUCEMENT URL OR JOB PDF BELOW.