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The City of Berkeley invites you to apply for the position of Associate Planner! In this role, you will have the opportunity to perform professional planning work in the Land Use Planning Division of the Planning Department or the Transportation Division of the Department of Public Works.

In the Land Use Division, the Associate Planner performs a variety of professional activities in support of the City's planning services. This Division administers zoning regulations, reviews development projects and assists the community in its efforts to plan for the City's physical, cultural, environmental, and socio-economic future. If current planning activities are assigned, work will include data collection, provision of information to the public at the zoning counter, processing development applications, and environmental review. If policy planning activities are assigned, work will include ordinance and plan revisions, data collection and analysis, and other land use studies.

In the Transportation Division, the Associate Planner works on a variety of projects, programs, and initiatives, such as developing, implementing, and updating the City's transportation plans; analyzing transportation and traffic safety data to identify and prioritize projects and policies that will improve public safety; developing Complete Streets projects and supporting the implementation of transportation capital improvement projects; and coordinating with transit providers, primarily AC Transit, on transit projects affecting Berkeley, including service planning and bus stop improvements. Additional duties may include leading grant applications and assisting with grant compliance, procurement of consultants, and consultant and contract management.

See the full job description here: https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/berkeley/classspecs/105343

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

A typical way of gaining the knowledge, skills, and abilities for this classification is:
Equivalent to graduation from a four year college with major coursework in city, regional, or urban planning or a closely related field and two (2) years of professional planning experience. Progressively responsible related experience may be substituted for the college coursework on a year-for-year basis.

A valid California driver's license is desirable. Must be able to attend evening meetings as required.

APPLICATION PROCESS

Applications must be received by 5:00 PM Pacific on March 23, 2026 and must include a completed application and answers to the supplemental questions. Please note that resumes are not a substitute for a completed application. 

Applications are available in alternative formats (audio-format, braille, large print, electronic text, etc.) upon request to ada@berkeleyca.gov. Please allow 10 days for production of the material in an alternative format.

EXAM PROCESS

The exam process will include, but may not be limited to:

• Application review for minimum qualifications and required documents
• Written exercise (tentatively scheduled for the week of April 20, 2026)

Tests may consist of any combination of written, oral or other exercises or assessment procedures that test content and may include, but are not necessarily limited to, typing, math, reading, writing and analytical skills; problem solving ability; computer and software proficiency, or any other job-related knowledge, skill, ability or qualification. The examination process and dates are subject to change. The City may, without notice, change or eliminate any assessment component as needs dictate. Applicants passing all examination phases will have their names placed on an employment eligible list that hiring departments will use to conduct final selection interviews.

Reasonable Accommodations: The City is committed to making reasonable accommodations in the examination process and in the work environment. Individuals requesting reasonable accommodations in the examination process must submit a request in writing to hr@berkeleyca.gov at the time of application.

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 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.

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