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SENIOR PLANNER

Community Development Department, Planning Division

$10,495.08 - $14,415.83 Monthly Plus Excellent Benefits

The salary range listed above reflects the full compensation potential for this position. Initial placement in the salary range is typically within the first half of the range; however, in certain circumstances (i.e. an experienced lateral candidate) placement at or above the midpoint may be considered. The last 3% of the salary range requires five years of City of Gilroy service and strong work performance – see MOU for specific requirements.

Opportunity to work a 9/80 work schedule with every other Friday off.

The City of Gilroy is an equal opportunity employer and supports workforce diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. Join our team! 


ABOUT THE POSITION
The City of Gilroy is recruiting a Senior Planner position in the Community Development Department. In this exciting opportunity, the Senior Planner is poised to make a significant impact towards building a vibrant, sustainable, and inclusive city for all. The Senior Planner will be assigned full responsibility for a variety of complex planning projects and entitlement permits, performing high-level professional planning duties using independent judgement in analyzing work and making recommendations and important decisions. Additional tasks include aiding applicants and the general public. Related duties and functions include project initiation, preparation, analysis, stakeholder coordination, environmental review, presentations, and enforcement. The role offers the opportunity to influence policy, champion sustainability, create spaces that promote equity and accessibility, and ensure that all initiatives align with our community’s long-term vision. 

The Senior Planner is a mid-management position and may mentor junior level staff and supervise technical, professional, and administrative staff.

ABOUT THE DEPARTMENT

The City of Gilroy’s Community Development Department Planning Division is committed to developing and implementing programs to support the City’s General Plan. We promote sustainable development and encourage quality design and livability of resident neighborhoods, commercial areas, and industrial zones within the City’s urban sphere. We pride ourselves on providing superior customer service. Our team is dedicated, energetic, collaborative, solution oriented, and we support innovative strategies that enhance quality of life and foster economic growth. 

Continuous goals of this department are to provide current and long-range community planning services in conformance with the Gilroy 2040 General Plan and consistent with City Council direction. The Planning team is responsible for implementation of Gilroy’s General Plan / Housing Element, Zoning Ordinance, adopted specific plans and other associated policies and ordinances. 

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Responding to public inquiries related to land-use and property development regulations. 
• Providing solution-oriented customer service to support economic development opportunities whenever possible. 
• Reviewing land-use entitlement applications (e.g. tentative map, conditional use permit, annexation, general plan amendment, architectural & site review permits) for conformance with adopted policies and regulations. 
• Administering the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) for environmental review related to planning and development proposals. 
• Implementing and updating the General Plan and Zoning Ordinance. 
• Providing staff support for the Planning Commission, as needed
• Resolving land-use related violations through Code Enforcement. 

FIRST YEAR PROJECTS/ASSIGNMENTS:

• Complete Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance Update 
• Complete Historic Resource Inventory Update and create Mills Act monitoring procedures 
• Manage a range of the more complex applications, including subdivisions, architectural and site review applications, and General Plan/Zoning amendments
• Build subject matter expertise in ADU development, housing policy, CEQA compliance and equity-based community development

Work for the City of Sunnyvale: The Heart of the Silicon Valley!

Visitors and residents enjoy Sunnyvale’s beautiful and clean setting with a mix of suburban and urban land uses, efficient, high-quality city services, low crime rate, quality schools and 18 prize-winning parks.

The City of Sunnyvale has an exciting opportunity for an Assistant Planner to join its Planning Division in the Community Development Department. Under direction of a Principal Planner or Planning Officer, the Assistant Planner performs professional work including review of staff-level and minor projects, assistance to the public at the One Stop counter; and performs related work as required. Teamwork and collaboration are at the heart of the Planning Division. A candidate with great interpersonal skills, a strong work ethic, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced and challenging work environment is desired.

Working for the City of Sunnyvale as an Assistant Planner is an opportunity to develop and grow in a collaborative, supportive and forward-thinking team environment.

The City of Sunnyvale provides an excellent benefits package. A complete application consists of a City application and responses to the supplemental questionnaire.  The position opens Thursday, December 18, 2025and final filing date is Thursday, January 22, 2026 5:00 PM or after receiving 75 qualified applicants, whichever is first. For complete information regarding this current opportunity, please visit: Sunnyvale.ca.gov and click on JOBS.

Salary:

$45.70 - $58.32 Hourly

Work for the City of Sunnyvale: The Heart of the Silicon Valley!

Visitors and residents enjoy Sunnyvale’s beautiful and clean setting with a mix of suburban and urban land uses, efficient, high-quality city services, low crime rate, quality schools and 18 prize-winning parks.

We are looking for an Associate Planner with strong current and/or policy planning experience to join the Planning team in Sunnyvale. Under direction of a Principal Planner or Planning Officer, the Associate Planner performs professional work including project review, public assistance at the One Stop counter, environmental review, general plan updates, plan preparation and review, long-range and land use policy studies, and plan adoption; and performs related work as required. Teamwork and collaboration are at the heart of the Planning Division. A candidate with great interpersonal skills, a strong work ethic, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced and challenging work environment is desired.

Working for the City of Sunnyvale as an Associate Planner is an opportunity to develop and grow in a collaborative, supportive and forward-thinking team environment.

The City of Sunnyvale provides an excellent benefits package. A complete application consists of a City application and responses to the supplemental questionnaire.  The position opens Thursday, December 18, 2025and final filing date is Thursday, January 22, 2026 5:00 PM or after receiving 75 qualified applicants, whichever is first. For complete information regarding this current opportunity, please visit: Sunnyvale.ca.gov and click on JOBS.

Salary:

$54.98 - $70.17 Hourly

It’s a great time to join the City of Belmont’s Community Development Department as an Assistant or Associate Planner!

The Community Development Department includes the Planning and Building divisions and works closely with the Housing and Economic Development team in the City Manager’s office. We are a dynamic staff of twelve, including several team members that have many years of service and bring deep institutional knowledge and experience working alongside newer team members who bring fresh perspective and ideas. Together, we are working on a wide range of projects and programs to provide great customer service, encourage housing development, diversify the City’s employment base, and plan for a resilient future for Belmont. We approach our work with a commitment to public service and belief that what we do helps shape the community and peoples’ lives.

This position is ideal for a planner that wants to apply their skills and experience to provide customer service, manage projects, help develop policy, and improve process in a collegial environment where humor is appreciated. The Assistant or Associate Planner will focus on current planning and will also have opportunities to work on advance planning and policy development. The Community Development leadership team is committed to providing training and growth opportunities for staff. This position will be filled at the Assistant Planner or Associate Planner level dependent on candidate qualifications.

Recruitment Timeline

First Review of Applications - January 12, 2026

First Round Interviews - Week of January 26, 2026

Department Interviews - Week of February 2, 2026

*Dates may be subject to change

DEFINITION

Under general supervision, performs a full range of technical and public contact duties in support of the Town’s code compliance program. This position emphasizes education and prevention by serving as a resource, partner, and guide to residents, contractors, and businesses to promote voluntary compliance and community pride. Responsibilities include proactive community education and outreach, monitoring construction activity, investigating and resolving complaints, and ensuring compliance with the Town’s municipal, fire, building, housing, zoning, and related codes and regulations. When enforcement is necessary, the Coordinator supports individuals through the resolution process by clearly explaining requirements and facilitating corrective action. Work involves extensive collaboration with Town departments and the public, detailed documentation and use of case management systems, and the consistent, fair application of codes and policies. Performs related duties as assigned.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED

Receives general supervision from the Building Official. Exercises no direct supervision over staff.

CLASS CHARACTERISTICS

The Code Compliance Coordinator class series is flexibly staffed; positions are normally filled at the I level, with advancement to the II level based on demonstrated proficiency, possession of required qualifications, and management approval.

Code Compliance Coordinator I (Journey-Level):

This is the fully qualified, journey-level class in the Code Compliance series. Incumbents are responsible for performing the full range of duties related to municipal code compliance, including complaint investigation, construction site monitoring, inspections, case management, and public education. Employees in this class are expected to work independently, apply codes and regulations with discretion, and serve as educators and resources to the community. Positions at this level may receive direction or instruction as new or unusual situations arise but generally operate with a high degree of independence and responsibility.

Code Compliance Coordinator II (Advanced-Level)

This is the advanced-level class in the Code Compliance series. Positions at this level are distinguished from Code Compliance Coordinator I by the performance of more complex or sensitive compliance cases, the expectation to serve as a subject-matter resource, and potential responsibility for mentoring less experienced staff. Incumbents are expected to exercise greater judgment and may be assigned leadership in high-profile cases, advanced compliance activities, or coordination of multi-departmental enforcement efforts. Progression to this level is typically based on several years of successful performance as a Code Compliance Coordinator I, advanced training and/or certification, and demonstration of proficiency in handling the most complex cases.

Advancement to the Code Compliance Coordinator II level is typically achieved through progression from the I level and is contingent upon (i) management’s determination that the incumbent is regularly performing the full range of duties of the higher classification; (ii) demonstrated satisfactory job performance; (iii) incumbent meeting the minimum qualifications for the higher classification; and (iv) management approval for advancement to Code Compliance Coordinator II.

EXAMPLES OF TYPICAL JOB FUNCTIONS (Illustrative Only)

Management reserves the right to add, modify, change, or rescind the work assignments of different positions and to make reasonable accommodations so that qualified employees can perform the essential functions of the job.

Collaboration & Communication

• Serve as an educator, resource, and ally to residents, contractors, and business owners by explaining the purpose and intent of Town codes and community standards.
• Provide responsive customer service by answering questions, explaining processes, and guiding residents and contractors through permit and compliance requirements.
• Prepare and maintain educational and process materials like notices, letters, handouts, and web based information.
• Demonstrate professionalism, emotional intelligence, and conflict-resolution skills in working with a variety of individuals and situations.

Investigations & Inspections

• Receive, record, and investigate complaints related to municipal, fire, building, housing, and zoning codes.
• Monitor residential and commercial construction sites to ensure compliance with permits and conditions of approval, safety standards, and Town regulations.
• Proactively identify and address issues related to construction completion timelines, site maintenance, safety hazards, or other potential violations.
• Conduct field inspections, research ownership records, review prior complaints, and determine whether violations have occurred.

Compliance & Resolution

• Promote voluntary compliance through education, prevention, and proactive communication.
• Partner with planning, building, engineering, police, public works, and legal staff to resolve compliance matters and ensure consistent application of codes.
• Guide individuals who are out of compliance through the resolution process, ensuring they understand what is required and how to achieve compliance.
• Prepare and issue notices of violation, citations, and related correspondence in accordance with applicable laws and ordinances, while maintaining a solution-oriented approach.
• Coordinate and monitor compliance and abatement activities, including site visits, correspondence, and follow-up inspections.

Documentation & Technology

• Maintain accurate case files, inspection notes, and compliance records using the Town’s land use permit tracking software.
• Input inspection results, notices, and case updates into databases to ensure timely tracking and resolution.
• Prepare clear, professional reports, memoranda, correspondence, and hearing documentation.
• Prepare and present compliance cases at hearings; send required notifications; testify and provide supporting evidence.
• Attend and document hearings, meetings, and related proceedings

Professional Effectiveness

• Apply codes and policies fairly, consistently, and with discretion to achieve safe, equitable, and lasting compliance.
• Manage time effectively to balance proactive patrols, investigations, compliance assistance, and administrative responsibilities.
• Contribute to the effectiveness of the division by being conscientious, detail-oriented, and professional.
• Perform related duties as assigned.

Under the supervision of the Fire Marshal, is responsible for performing plan review, 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.  

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. This position is responsible for conducting in-house training and updating of field inspection staff members on changes occurring in codes enforced by the District.  This position is also responsible for the formulation of standardized field inspection guidelines and record keeping systems for construction projects. Provides supervision, work direction, and technical assistance as directed. Participates in the code change process at the state and international levels. Utilizes tools and technology identified by the District related to performance of tasks. Supports emergency operations as requested and appropriate.

The position is responsible for performing inspections 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; 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 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 Assistant Planning Director to play a key role in maintaining our city’s charm while supporting thoughtful growth and development. The ideal candidate is an experienced professional in urban planning who has a proven track record for providing high level analysis, excellent customer service skills, and exceptional leadership. They will be able to demonstrate an interest in community development and a passion for working with residents and staff to make the City vital, safe and attractive. 

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.

This is a challenging job in a great city! 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 preferred, but not required.

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.

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

The City of Lafayette (pop. 24,000) is looking for an entry-level professional in urban planning -- our next Planning Technician. This role will be expected to provide clear analysis and excellent customer service. The Planning Technician will have the opportunity to work in the field of current planning, including review of development and land use applications, zoning, site plan and environmental review.

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.

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.