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The Associate Planner supports the Town’s planning and development functions by reviewing and analyzing a variety of land use and development applications to ensure compliance with local, state, and federal regulations. This position provides technical assistance and guidance to property owners, developers, and the public on zoning, design review, environmental assessment, and related planning matters. The Associate Planner also prepares staff reports, presents recommendations to the Planning Commission and Town Council, and contributes to long-term planning initiatives that promote thoughtful, sustainable development consistent with San Anselmo’s General Plan.

*The Town welcomes applicants with diverse experience levels. Candidates with less planning experience are encouraged to apply and may be alternatively considered for the Assistant Planner position ($88,716–$107,844), depending on experience and qualifications.

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

POSITION OVERVIEW 

We have an exciting opportunity for a full-time Assistant Planner to join our team in Millbrae, San Mateo County.  

The Community Development Department is comprised of five divisions and functional areas: Planning, Building, Code Enforcement, Housing, and Economic Development. This position will be the primary planner assigned to staff the public service counter, and would be assigned to process planning applications, zoning clearances, business license applications, and building, sign, and wireless permits. There would be a focus on processing design review planning applications and conditional use permits for single family dwelling units and other smaller scale residential and commercial projects.  This position may also work on other duties as needed by the Planning Division. 

This unique opportunity offers an entry-level professional the ability to engage in a wide variety of planning projects with regional significance while serving a charming, diverse community with a small-town feel. The City of Millbrae offers interested applicants a competitive compensation and benefits package, a positive and collaborative working environment, opportunities for professional growth and advancement, and is conveniently located for commuters within walking distance from both BART and Caltrain.  

DEFINITION
Under general supervision, performs a variety of professional planning work related to municipal planning, zoning, housing, economic development, and environmental analysis; researches and analyzes a variety of planning-related data and information; prepares various studies and recommendations; prepares and reviews environmental documents; reviews development and subdivision proposals, building plans, permits, and parcel maps; works with developers, architects, attorneys, and the public regarding City standards and policies; may serve as staff to various Commissions and/or committees; and does related work as assigned.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS
Assistant Planner is the entry and first working level in the Planner class series. Incumbents learn and perform a wide range of the planning functions. This classification is distinguished from the Associate Planner because the Associate Planner performs more complex work more independently.
 

SUPERVISION EXERCISED AND RECEIVED
Receives general supervision from supervisory or management staff in Community Development Department.
 

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
The duties 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 position.
• Conducts assigned planning projects involving land use, populations, structures, economic activities, housing, transportation, environmental and related subjects; conducts research and confers with applicants, interested parties, and agency representatives to identify problems and opportunities; processes use permits, business licenses, and re-zoning and subdivision variances;
• Analyzes data with respect to relevant laws, ordinances, regulations, and policies; determines methods to reconcile project conflicts with local and State law;
• Prepares professional staff reports of summarized data, conclusions, and recommendations; prepares staff analysis and reports regarding land use applications;
• Attends and makes presentations to the Planning Commission, City Council, other commissions, and the public;
• Receives and reviews planning applications; coordinates review with various City and outside agencies; assists with the creation and revision of plans and related documents; may lead a team on complex applications and long-range planning projects; responds to inquiries both orally and in writing; interprets planning policies, State laws, and local ordinances, within established parameters; explains City procedures in person, over the phone, and in writing;
• Drafts resolutions, findings, ordinances, and amendments to plans and related documents; prepares and oversees the preparation of graphs, charts, and other displays;
• Ensures that all public and private development proposals have been properly reviewed and noticed under California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and State Law;
• Provides information on City, regional, and State environmental, zoning, land use, development standards, and subdivision requirements to consultants, developers, property owners, and the
general public;
• Works extensively on the computer to manage current planning caseloads, produce written documents, prepare maps, analyze data, create graphics, research on the internet, and communicate with others through e-mail;
• May administer contracts and oversee the work of consultants; may serve as a liaison with other City departments on large development projects;
• May provide a variety of support to the department, other city agencies, commissions, or ad-hoc advisory groups; and
• Performs related duties as assigned.

JOB-RELATED QUALIFICATIONS
 

Knowledge of: Mapping and drafting techniques involved in planning; design and plan review techniques; principles, practices, and purpose of municipal planning; laws and regulations related to City planning, including CEQA, State planning law, and subdivision map act; site and project design review techniques and requirements; nomenclature, symbols, methods, practices, techniques, and instruments used in planning, drafting, and mapping; statistics and statistical analysis as applied to land use, transportation, zoning, and master plan studies; principles and techniques of developing and maintaining a master plan; site planning and architectural design; laws and other regulations relating to municipal planning; basic knowledge of Geographic Information System (GIS) software, database software, word processing software, spreadsheets, and graphics software.

Ability to: Learn to research, interpret, and apply local, State, and Federal laws and codes; collect, analyze, and interpret data pertaining to planning and zoning situations; learn and apply urban, environmental, housing, zoning, and transportation planning principles and methods to local problems; establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with others; communicate effectively, orally and in writing; learn to read, understand, and interpret maps, plans, building elevations, specifications, and legal descriptions; operate personal computers and utilize planning applications and software used in office environments; analyze and compile statistical, economic, and technical data; read, understand, and apply State laws, local ordinances and guidelines to permit applications; prepare well-written reports and oral presentations; make effective presentations in public meetings in a clear and concise manner; establish and maintain effective working relationships with other employees, policy makers, developers, and the public; read and interpret architectural and construction plans; participate in project development.

EDUCATION AND TRAINING GUIDELINES
Any combination of experience and training that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities. A typical way would be:

Education: Graduation from a four-year college or university with major course work in city or regional planning, urban planning, public policy, or a closely related field. Master’s degree in a related field is highly desirable.

Experience: One (1) years of experience as a current planner.

Licenses: Possession of a valid California Driver’s License and a satisfactory driving record, as determined by the City.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS
Speak clearly and understandably; operate standard computer programs. Ability to travel to various locations within and outside the City of Millbrae to meet program needs and fulfill the job responsibilities. When driving on City business, maintenance of a California driver’s license and satisfactory driver’s record is required. Must be able to actively participate in evening meetings.

Other Requirements: Must have the willingness and ability to work the hours necessary to accomplish the assigned duties, including evening and weekend hours; attend evening meeting

Foster City is looking for a fast learner with some planning or building experience to fill the position of Building Permit Technician. This is an entry-level position that can serve as the first step in establishing a career in Planning or Building services. Foster City offers a unique experience to utilize customer service and people skills while deepening your technical knowledge in the building permit process. 

Education and Experience
Any combination equivalent to experience and education that could likely provide the required knowledge, skills and abilities. A typical way would be:

Education: High school diploma or equivalent is required. An associate degree or completion of technical courses in building codes or inspection principles or techniques is desirable. ICBO Permit Technician Certification is highly desirable.

Experience: Two (2) years experience working in a building or planning department, with six (6) months to one (1) year of experience in computerized building permit applications processing. 

Licenses and Certifications

• ICBO Permit Technician Certification is required within the first full year of employment with the City in this position

To review the full job announcement click on the "Foster City Building Permit Technician Flyer" below. 

Selection Process
Applications will be reviewed for relevant education, experience, training and other job related qualifications. Based upon a review of employment applications received, a limited number of qualified applicants will be invited to participate in the examination process. 

The process will consist of an Oral Panel Interview. An eligibility list will be established from those who pass the examination process with a score of 70% or higher. Current and future vacancies may be filled from this list. The list will remain in effect for at least one year unless exhausted sooner. 

The department will invite the most qualified candidates from the eligibility list to a final department interview. The Community Development Department will make the hiring decision. 

Expected Dates for Examinations (subject to change): 
Oral Panel Interview: Week of December 8 (exact date TBD) 
Department Interview: Week of December 15 (exact date TBD) 

Note: Meeting the minimum qualifications does not guarantee that a candidate will be invited to participate in the selection process. The City of Foster City reserves the right, at its discretion, to limit the number of qualified candidates invited to the selection process. 

Application Filing Period: Closes at 5:00pm on the date stated in the job announcement; however, it may close prior to the filing end date if sufficient applications have been received. If sufficient applications have not been received, then the filing period end date may be extended. 

The Town of Portola Valley is seeking a Senior Planner to help guide thoughtful development, protect our natural character, and enhance the quality of life that makes our community so special. If you’re a creative, collaborative planning professional who enjoys both strategic visioning and hands-on project work, this is your chance to make a direct and lasting impact in a close-knit town setting!

Under the general direction of the Planning and Building Director, our Senior Planner will perform professional level work related to municipal planning, zoning, housing, and environmental analysis; reviews and will manage complex development projects; perform professional duties in support of long range planning studies, interpret and enforce various zoning regulations of the Town; completes complex and technical assessments and prepares written analyses; provides professional assistance to the public; presents information and reports to the Architecture Site Control Commission (ASCC), the Planning Commission, and the Town Council; and performs related work as required. 

The City of Redwood City Invites Applications for: Plan Checker 

WHY JOIN THE REDWOOD CITY TEAM?

We offer a wide range of meaningful career opportunities with potential for growth, training and development, competitive salaries, flexible work schedules, paid time off, and robust benefits. The Redwood City team is guided by the core values of excellence, integrity, service, collaboration, inclusion, and innovation. Inherent in these values is a great organizational culture based on trust, strong and supportive leadership, respect, risk-taking, empowerment, and effective communication. The community is known for its inclusivity, strong engaged neighborhoods, and civic pride. The City works diligently to maintain positive and productive relationships with community partners, together providing outstanding services, programs and opportunities for residents and businesses. This mix of tradition and progress, community and diversity, makes Redwood City an extraordinary place to work and call home. If you’re looking to grow your career as a part of a hard-working and fun Community Development team that fosters innovation, creativity and collaboration, we hope you’ll apply.

ABOUT THE POSITION

The City of Redwood City invites you to apply for the position of Plan Checker.  This position is to assist in the review of building plans and specifications for compliance with city, state and model code requirements; provide advice and interpretations to clients; and process building permit applications. It is under general supervision of Chief Building Official.

Ready to take your development review expertise to the next level?
The Town is hiring for a Senior Development Review Technician to perform advanced technical planning and building support. You’ll tackle complex projects, work independently, and ensure that development across our community aligns with established standards and contribute to projects that directly influence community vitality and quality of life.

The Senior Development Review Technician is the advanced journey level in the Development Review Technician series. Incumbents provide work coordination and training for other Development Review Technicians or consultants (as applicable), as well as perform the full range of technical building and planning support duties. They are required to possess thorough knowledge of the requirements, processes and procedures of the Planning and Building Department, and some working knowledge of Public Works is desirable. This position is distinguished from other classes within the series by the level of responsibility assumed, complexity of duties assigned, and independence of action taken. Incumbents are expected to provide more comprehensive support to the Planning and Building Department and may be assigned work coordination and lead responsibilities. 

Join Our Team!

• Are you an experienced planning professional who enjoys turning community vision into practical results?

• Do you thrive in small, collaborative teams where your work directly shapes the character of a community?

If so, the Town of Los Altos Hills invites you to apply for the Associate Planner position.

Compensation and Recruitment Timeline
Salary: $110,222.00 – $148,797.00 annually

Final salary will be determined based on the candidate’s relevant work experience, specific skills, and educational background. The Town’s salary ranges are divided into five steps, which represent incremental increases within the pay range. Employees typically start at a step that reflects their level of experience and performance. Each step corresponds to a specific salary amount and provides an opportunity for periodic increases based on satisfactory performance and time in position.
This recruitment is targeting individuals whose qualifications align with approximately Step 5 of the salary range.

Recruitment and Interview Process

Recruitment Opens: November 7, 2025 - 11:59 PM November 28, 2025

First Interviews: December 5, 2025 (Remote)

Second Interviews: December 15, 2025 (In-Person at Los Altos Hills Town Hall)

Target Offer Date: Early 2026

About the Role

The Town of Los Altos Hills is seeking an experienced, motivated, and community-oriented Associate Planner to join our small but dynamic Planning team. Under the supervision of the Director, the Associate Planner will work on a wide variety of current and long-range planning efforts. This is a mid-level professional planning role ideal for someone who thrives in a collaborative environment and enjoys managing projects with autonomy while serving a unique, rural-residential community.

The Associate Planner conducts research and analysis related to the Town’s General Plan, Zoning Ordinance, and other land use regulations. This position also plays a key role in community engagement and customer service, preparing reports and presenting to citizen committees, the Planning Commission, and the Town Council on projects of moderate to considerable complexity.

Key Responsibilities

• Reviews and makes recommendations on development proposals, including site development permits, variances, conditional development permits, conditional use permits, and lot line adjustments.
• Prepares staff reports and recommendations for the Planning Commission, City Council, and Site Development hearings; attends meetings and delivers presentations as needed.
• Conducts field investigations to assist with project evaluation.
• Coordinates plan reviews with internal departments (e.g., Building, Public Works), Town consultants, and other public agencies.
• Inspects development projects for compliance with approved plans and conditions of approval.
• Conducts research and analysis on planning topics such as land use trends, General Plan updates, Census data, and Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) participation.
• Evaluates and approves administrative-level development permits and checks building plans for consistency with Town codes and conditions.
• Interprets and explains planning and zoning regulations and land use principles to the public, architects, builders, and developers.
• Conducts site analysis meetings with design professionals and residents.
• Investigates zoning and code compliance complaints and conducts follow-up as necessary.
• Prepares informational handouts and public materials related to Town policies and development procedures.
• Evaluates projects for compliance with CEQA, the Subdivision Map Act, and applicable State planning and zoning laws.
• Prepares findings for CEQA exemptions, Initial Studies, Negative Declarations, Mitigated Negative Declarations, and coordinates Environmental Impact Reports (EIRs) as needed.
• Provides occasional training, technical support, and direction to interns, Assistant Planners, and consultants.
• Participates in interdepartmental coordination with the Public Works Manager, City Engineer, Finance Director, and Building Official.

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 City of Half Moon Bay Community Development Department invites qualified candidates to apply for the position of Senior Planner.  The Department is seeking an attentive and well-qualified Senior Planner Supervisor to join the Planning Division. The Senior Planner reviews and manages complex development projects through the entitlement process, oversees professional planning assignments, manages long-range planning studies, and incorporates meaningful community engagement into planning initiatives. At any given time, the Senior Planner may be interpreting zoning regulations, managing consultant work, preparing detailed project analyses, or advising the public on planning matters.

The Senior Planner reports to the Community Development Director and supervises more junior planners. Senior Planners may also serve as project manager for major private development proposals and City planning projects, serve as Deputy Zoning Administrator, and act as staff liaison to the Planning Commission.

• Manage a variety of complex planning projects, including residential, commercial, and mixed-use development.
• Apply policies and procedures of the City’s Local Coastal Program (LCP), General Plan, and zoning regulations.
• Direct consultant services for CEQA and technical reviews.
• Conduct and present analyses of planning proposals; prepare staff reports and recommendations.
• Facilitate public engagement and represent the City at meetings, workshops, and hearings.
• Provide guidance to architects, contractors, developers, and the general public regarding development standards.
• Supervise and mentor planning staff in best practices and project review.
• Coordinate interdepartmental project review and collaborate with external agencies.
• Attend evening and weekend meetings as required.