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The City of San Mateo Public Works Department is seeking a Senior Transportation Planner 

The Department

The Public Works Department is organized into several divisions, including Administration, Business Services, Wastewater Treatment, Clean Water Program, Fleet and Facilities, Data Management, Field Maintenance, Regulatory Compliance, Capital Improvements, Development Services, and Transportation. The Department operates under a Director and two Deputy Directors to support strong coordination and performance. The Department is responsible for the City’s major capital projects and infrastructure including streets, streetlights, traffic signals, parking lots and garages, sewer and storm conveyance systems, a wastewater treatment plant, pump stations, a lagoon, dams, and levees. 

The Department plays a central role in advancing a safe, connected, and efficient transportation network for all users. San Mateo is a regional leader in transportation, with a strong track record of securing grant funding for major corridor improvements, including along 19th Avenue/Fashion Island Boulevard and Peninsula Avenue. To learn more about the City’s transportation safety efforts, visit our website at https://www.cityofsanmateo.org/4727/Transportation-Safety.  

The Department is committed to high performance and continuous improvement, using data-driven decision-making, best practices, and collaborative, team-oriented approaches. Managers and supervisors are accountable for developing strong teams, supporting employee growth, and delivering on the Department’s goals and work plans. 

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

The Position 

The Senior Transportation Planner under general direction, organizes, reviews, and participates in transportation planning work; supervises the work of professional and technical transportation planning personnel, projects, and other activities; and performs other related work as required 

Duties may include, but are not limited to, the following: 

• Supervises professional and technical staff, including prioritizing and assigning work, conducting performance evaluations, training staff, and supporting hiring decisions in consultation with the Engineering Manager, Deputy Director, and Department Head. 

• Represents the City and department in communications and interactions, including coordination, briefings, and presentations, with other City departments, City Commissions and City Council, government agencies, local industries, businesses, community groups, and other stakeholders interested in regional and local transportation, transit, traffic, and parking issues. 

• Plans, coordinates, formulates, and implements, in coordination with other City departments, goals, objectives, policies and priorities; and makes recommendations for changes to codes, plans and policies, as it relates to transportation planning and parking management. 

• Directs, coordinates, reviews, and participates in the work of professional, technical, and clerical staff, as well as consultants, in data collection, analysis, plan and policy formulation, and implementation of a wide variety of projects. 

• Participates in and provides technical expertise in transportation demand management and traffic forecasting including the formulation of a City-wide traffic model and the maintenance and update thereof. 

• Manages administration of the City’s parking permit programs, oversees the collection, control, and reconciliation of parking revenues, assists in the preparation and administration of the parking program operating budget, monitors expenses, and prudently allocates resources to support parking program operations and objectives. 

• Assists, contributes and manages the planning, design, and construction of capital projects including preparation of purchase requisitions, requests for proposals, development of the scope of work, professional service agreements and coordination with other City departments as appropriate. 

• Reviews planning applications and building permits in relation to transportation and parking related issues, including review of traffic impact analyses, vehicle miles traveled (VMT) analyses, and other related transportation studies. 

• Attend in-person meetings, site visits, and stakeholder engagements, often with minimal notice; respond promptly to urgent requests requiring physical presence at various locations throughout the region or state; transport necessary materials, documents, and equipment for meetings, presentations, or fieldwork. 

• Supports the review, update, maintenance of transportation-related impact fees. 

• Supports the drafting of submittals for grant funding from various local, state, and federal funding sources. 

• And other duties as assigned. 

This position receives oversight and general direction from the Engineering Manager or other higher departmental management personnel and may exercise direct supervision over professional, technical, and administrative personnel. 

For a complete list of duties, reference our job specifications at https://www.cityofsanmateo.org/DocumentCenter/Home/Index/86c 

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.

CITY OF SARATOGA, COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT • INTERNSHIP OPPORTUNITY

1 Position  •  $25.00/hour  •  Up to 12 Weeks  •  Flexible Start Date  •  Summer 2026

This internship is offered as part of a Regional Internship Partnership designed to introduce current students and recent college graduates to local municipal government. The City of Saratoga participates in this program with the goal of connecting a diverse student population to public sector work, providing meaningful hands-on experience that supports both personal and professional growth.

Position Description

The Community Development Department has one part-time, paid summer internship opportunity in its Development Services Division (up to 20 hours per week). The selected intern will gain hands-on experience in municipal arboriculture, working alongside City staff on a range of tasks that support the protection and management of Saratoga’s urban tree canopy. The internship runs for up to 12 weeks, and the start and end dates can be arranged around the selected candidate’s college summer break schedule.

The workload will balance supporting day-to-day operations with exposure to longer-term planning and research projects. The intern will receive assignments and work direction from staff within the department.

Tree Permit Applications and Development Review. The intern will assist staff in the processing of tree permit applications and the review of development projects. This includes evaluating applications for consistency with the City’s tree regulations and tracking project status through the review process.

Field Inspections and Plan Review. The intern will participate in field inspections to assess potential construction impacts on trees. Work will include reviewing grading and site plans, identifying tree protection measures, and documenting field conditions.

Research and Ordinance Work. The intern will support research related to the City’s tree ordinance and fire preparedness initiatives. This may include reviewing comparable ordinances from neighboring jurisdictions, summarizing research findings, and supporting the City’s ordinance update process.

Tree Identification and Health Assessment. The intern will learn to identify tree species commonly found in Saratoga and develop familiarity with common pests, diseases, and abiotic factors that affect tree health. This knowledge will be applied during field work and permit review.

Tree Appraisal. The intern will be introduced to the basics of tree appraisal methodology, including an overview of how trees are valued in the context of permit applications and development projects.

Database Maintenance. The intern will assist with the maintenance of department databases and records related to tree permits, inspections, and urban forestry data.

Community Interaction. The intern will have the opportunity to interact directly with Saratoga residents and contractors, developing professional communication skills in a public service context.

Read more about the City of Saratoga's tree program here.

City of San Mateo, Community Development Department, Planning Division

Planning Intern

The City of San Mateo Community Development Department is looking for a Planning Intern

The Department

The City of San Mateo is a progressive City that encourages staff and community engagement to develop positive solutions that meet the current and future needs of our community. You’ll be joining a talented team in a fast-paced, dynamic work environment dedicated to serving the San Mateo community. The Community Development Department’s core function is to ensure a quality commercial and residential environment, healthy neighborhoods, and a strong economic base that aligns with community objectives.

The Community Development Department’s Planning Division provides a broad range of services, including review of applications for current ­­­development and long-range planning.

The intern must have an interest in pursuing planning as a career and will gain practical experience to be competitive in the job market. Enthusiasm, respect, accountability, collaboration, critical thinking, willingness to learn are attributes we are seeking in the candidates.

This paid internship will involve supporting research regarding a variety of activities, and assignments performing duties and responsibilities related to the daily functions of Planning Division as required.

*Please visit our What’s Happening in Development page to review some of the exciting projects happening in San Mateo.
 

The Position

The Planning Intern will support the Community Development Department - Planning Division with research-based projects and assist staff with minor permit review. This internship is designed to provide hands-on experience in municipal planning, exposure to development review processes, and an understanding of how planning policies are implemented at the local level. The intern will work closely with planning staff and gain practical insight into zoning, land use regulations, and public-sector planning operations.

Duties: The primary projects will most likely include the following:

•    Conduct research related to land use planning, zoning regulations, and special planning initiatives
•    Assist planning staff with minor permit review
•    Help organize and analyze planning data, maps, and project materials
•    Prepare summaries and other written materials to support planning projects
•    Assist with updating planning documents, handouts, and internal resources
•    Participate in staff meetings and observe planning processes, as appropriate
•    Provide general administrative support to planning staff as needed

Minimum Qualifications

•    BA/BS Candidate in City Planning, Architecture, Public Policy or a similar discipline
•    Strong analytical, writing and verbal skills; effective written and oral communication
•    Interest in municipal planning and public-sector work
•    Familiarity with land use planning concepts or zoning regulations
•    Strong attention to detail and willingness to learn
 

Time Commitment

Flexible Schedule, up to 40 hours a week. Each intern is able to work a maximum of 1,000 hours per fiscal year.

Interview Process

All applications will be reviewed for minimum qualifications. Qualified candidates will be contacted for a virtual interview.

Compensation

$25.08 – 30.02 per hour

Are you a planning professional looking for an amazing opportunity on the Coast? The City of Pacifica is a beautiful coastal community, just south of San Francisco with an exciting opportunity.

THE CITY OF PACIFICA IS SEEKING QUALIFIED CANDIDATES FOR THE POSITION OF AN

ASSOCIATE PLANNER

Salary FY 25-26: $8,646.00-$10,194.00 Monthly

Salary FY 26-27: $8,905.00-$10,500.00 Monthly

Salary FY 27-28: $9,172.00-$10,815.00 Monthly

Plus an Excellent Benefits Package

DEFINITION

Under general supervision, the Assistant/Associate Planner performs professional-level work in current and/or advanced planning and special projects. Completes technical assessments and studies and prepares written analyses and reports. Provides community outreach and education.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS

This is the entry-level class in the Planner series. Initially under close supervision, Assistant Planners learn to apply concepts and work procedures and perform professional planning work. Work is usually supervised while in progress and fits an established structure or pattern. Exceptions or changes in procedures are explained in detail as they arise. As experience is gained, assignments become more varied and are performed with greater independence. Positions at this level usually perform duties required of the positions at the Associate level, but usually exercise less independent judgment and discretion in matters related to work procedures and methods.

Associate Planner

This is the fully qualified journey-level classification in the Planner Series. Positions at this level are distinguished from the Assistant Planner by the elevated performance of a full range of duties as assigned, working independently, and exercising judgment and initiative. Positions at this level receive only occasional instruction or assistance as new or unusual situations arise and are fully aware of the operating procedures and policies of the work unit. Provide general assistance and advice to the developers and the public on current planning and zoning matters, both orally and in writing.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED

Received direct and general supervision from the Community Development Director or designee. Exercises no supervision of staff. Exercises technical and functional direction over and provides training to interns. 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS - INCLUDE BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO THE

FOLLOWING:

Assistant and Associate Planner

• Serves as project manager on planning and development projects, including processing applications and reviewing plans for routine to complex commercial, industrial, residential, mixed use, and/or tree removal projects.

• Provide general assistance and advice to the developers and the public on current planning and zoning matters, both orally and in writing.
• Process development permit and subdivision applications for hearing in accordance with State law.
• Performs plan check functions for various projects. Receives and reviews applications for building permits for completeness.
• Reviews business license applications and ensures consistency with land use standards and prior development and entitlement approvals.
• Prepare and present reports for Planning Commission and City Council action on current advanced planning projects.
• Prepare periodic major and minor revisions to the Zoning Ordinance, General Plan and Coastal Land Use Plan.
• Formulate, prepare and present ordinances, projects and studies addressing special planning problems and issues related, for example, to Community Development funding, redevelopment, commercial development, provision for low and moderate income housing, or coastal access.
• Periodically work with community groups and committees on special projects with Zoning Ordinance and General Plan revisions. May be asked to represent City at regional meetings related to Community Development.
• Provide general assistance and advice to the developers and the public on current planning and zoning matters, both orally and in writing.
• Assists the public at the front counter, on the phone, via email, and answering questions and providing information regarding zoning, land use, code interpretation, development standards, project status, and the City’s processes.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

In addition to the Assistant Planner duties, Associate Planner duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Writes staff reports and collects supporting documentation for submission to the Planning Commission, City Council, Open Space and Parkland Advisory Committee, and other commissions and committees.
• Interprets and ensures compliance with City codes, General Plan, Specific Plan, and California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA).
• Attends meetings, conferences, workshops and training sessions. Attends and participates in professional group meetings. Seeks and maintains knowledge of new trends and innovations in the field of urban planning and other types of public services as they relate to the area of assignment.
• May serve as liaison to the Planning commission and other commissions and committees.
• Represents the Community Development Department and City of Pacifica in regional planning working groups, including but not limited to countywide storm water and housing working groups.
• Performs other 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.

The Town of Moraga offers a supportive, team-oriented environment where you will have the opportunity to work on a variety of meaningful land use projects and make a visible impact in the community. As an Associate Planner, you will perform journey-level current and advanced planning work and help advance a diverse portfolio of Town priorities. In a small but dedicated organization, you will have the opportunity to take ownership of projects, work closely with staff and consultants, and help provide technical guidance and support to junior staff on assigned work.
 
The Town values initiative, collaboration, practical problem-solving, and a commitment to quality public service. Moraga is an excellent place for a motivated planner to broaden technical skills, build project management experience, and grow professionally while helping deliver projects that support and enhance the community.

CAREER OPPORTUNITY IN OUR COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT AS A SENIOR PLANNER

Starting Rate of Pay at $39.96 per hour, paid bi-weekly. 26 pay periods per year

$6,926 - $8,420 per month,  $ 83,116 - $101,046 per year

EXCELLENT BENEFIT PACKAGE

https://www.ceres.gov/DocumentCenter/View/8155/City-of-Ceres-2026-Benefit-Guide-

https://content.stancera.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/T6-SUMMARY.pdf

SENIOR PLANNER

Class specifications are intended to present a descriptive list of the range of duties performed by employees in the class. Specifications are not intended to reflect all duties performed within the job.

SUMMARY DESCRIPTION

Under general supervision, performs a variety of professional planning responsibilities and tasks associated with the coordination and implementation of complex planning projects; performs a variety of duties relating to the collection, analysis, interpretation, and presentation of technical land use, environmental, zoning, and other City planning data.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS

This is the advanced journey level in the professional planning class series. The position is characterized by the level of technical expertise and skill and independent oversight of out of the ordinary, high profile, complex and atypical projects, while functioning as the project coordinator, working with and leading interdisciplinary teams. The Senior Planner is distinguished from the Associate Planner by the complexity and technical expertise required to work on assigned projects.

REPRESENTATIVE DUTIES

The following duties are typical for this classification. Incumbents may not perform all of the listed duties and/or may be required to perform additional or different duties from those set forth below to address business needs and changing business practices.

1. Coordinate, lead, and perform professional level work in the fields of current and advanced planning, zoning administration, design review, and economic development activities.
2. Prepare, edit, and review complex reports on a wide range of planning issues; make presentations to the City Council, Planning Commission, standing and ad hoc committees, developers, community groups, and outside agencies.
3. Review and approve or deny plan checks for building projects.
4. Supervise and participate in the review of complex development proposals for conformance to City standards; resolve disputes between the City and developers or property owners.
5. Review and edit letters sent by the Planning Division regarding various City actions.
6. Review and respond to referrals from other agencies regarding outside projects that may affect the City.
7. Conduct field visits and site assessments.
8. Take phone calls and inquiries from the public and other agencies; provide assistance to walk in customers at the counter.
9. Participate in the development and implementation of the City’s planning policies.
10. Assist in the training of assigned staff.
11. Undertake special projects as assigned.
12. Attend and participate in professional group meetings; maintain awareness of new trends and developments in the field of municipal planning; incorporate new developments as appropriate into programs.
13. Attend a variety of meetings, including Planning Commission meetings and predevelopment meetings; provide support to advisory bodies.
14. Perform related duties as required.

The City of Westlake Village is seeking an experienced and enthusiastic Associate Planner who has the ability to develop and maintain positive and ongoing relationships and interactions with the public, City staff, and consultants; the ability to complete tasks in a timely manner; and the appropriate skills in managing multiple projects and activities at the same time. The position will assist the Planning Director in administering the City’s Zoning Ordinances, General Plan, and various other programs in support of the City’s residents and businesses. A motivated and organized individual who enjoys being nimble and adaptive to the needs of the organization will thrive in this unique position.

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

POSITION HIGHLIGHTS

• A stable organization with experienced leadership.
• Professional development support, including conference attendance and continuing education opportunities.
• Opportunities to expand your skills and grow within our organization. Modernized office space and hybrid flexibility (one day per week telework after six months)

SALARY

The anticipated hiring range for the Senior Planner position is $108,390 - $135,488 with a full salary range up to $162,586. The City typically makes offers within the hiring range based on the candidate’s experience and qualifications.
 

Description

The City of Thousand Oaks is seeking a high-performing Senior Planner to lead complex development and long-range planning initiatives in one of Southern California’s most desirable communities. This position plays a key role in sharing residential, mixed-use, commercial, and downtown revitalization projects while advancing the City’s General Plan and environmental review efforts.   

We are seeking an innovative, collaborative individual to conduct a variety of planning duties with competence and professionalism. The Senior Planner must be an excellent team player with a track record of excellent judgement who has demonstrated initiative and been successful in improving processes.

The Senior Planner will assume a lead role in complex planning and development projects, including residential, mixed-use, commercial, industrial, and institutional proposals, and may assist in the preparation of environmental documents (both internally and through planning consultants).  The Senior Planner may also process legislative applications, such as zone changes and General Plan amendments, and occasionally assist with open space planning/natural resource management projects.

Primary responsibilities:

• Serve as project manager for complex development applications, exercising independent judgment in interpreting policies, coordinating multi-departmental review, and guiding projects through entitlement and public hearing processes. Lead and contribute to long-range planning initiatives, including implementation of the General Plan and participation in comprehensive updates. initiatives
• Manage consultant preparation of environmental documents in compliance with CEQA requirements, including Mitigated Negative Declarations and Environmental Impact Reports; review technical studies, coordinate interdepartmental input, and prepare environmental documentation as needed. Interpret and apply federal, state, and local land use regulations, including evolving California housing law, to ensure legally defensible and consistent project review.  Prepare and present clear, well-supported staff reports and policy analysis for City Council, Planning Commission, and community stakeholders.
• Process legislative applications, including Municipal Code Amendments, zone changes, and General Plan amendments
• Support implementation of downtown revitalization initiatives and Specific Plan updates/initiatives