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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

Under general supervision, performs a variety of complex technical duties in support of the development review process, including planning, zoning, plan review, building inspection, plan intake and screening, permit issuance, and code enforcement; provides information to the public at a counter or over the telephone; supports regulation and control of design, construction, and quality of materials, use and occupancy, location, and maintenance of all buildings and structures within the Town’s jurisdiction; and performs related duties as assigned.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED

Receives general supervision from assigned supervisory or management personnel.  Exercises no direct supervision over staff.   

This is the advanced-level classification in the Building and Planning Technician series responsible for performing the most complex work assigned to the series.  Incumbents regularly work on tasks which are varied and complex, requiring considerable discretion and independent judgment.  Positions in the classification rely on experience and judgment to perform assigned duties in accordance with federal, state, and local laws, rules, and regulations.  Assignments are given with general guidelines and incumbents are responsible for establishing objectives, timelines and methods to complete assignments.  Work is typically reviewed upon completion for soundness, appropriateness, and conformity to policy and requirements. 

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.

• Conducts building, land use, and engineering permit processing; reviews permit applications, plans, specifications, and supporting documents for completeness and compliance with legal standards and Town requirements; calculates permit fees; prepares bills, collects fees, and issues receipts; issues building, plumbing, mechanical, and electrical permits following established guidelines.
• Receives documents and completes planning and building review approval process on plot and site plans to ensure code compliance; resolves complex issues of compliance; reviews and approves plans and accompanying documents on over-the-counter permits for assigned projects; processes construction plans for commercial and residential projects; files or routes information to appropriate Town departments. 
• Applies departmental policies and procedures in determining completeness of applications, records, and reports; provides information and forms to the public; processes appropriate information. 

• Trains employees in work principles, practices, methods, policies, procedures, and applicable federal, state, and local laws, rules, and regulations.

• Assists staff with the resolution of situations that arise in contact with homeowners, builders, architects, and contractors regarding the interpretation or coordination of the department's work.

• Provides appropriate information regarding zoning, subdivision plans, and building ordinances, procedures, and requirements to the public including homeowners, developers, contractors, engineers, and architects, in person and over the counter and telephone; assists the public in the permit application process, coordinating and scheduling inspections, and other developmental processes; notifies applicants when plans or permits are ready for delivery or issuance; provides status updates. 
• Processes bond refunds and tracks deposit accounts and bonds issued for Building and Planning Department permitted projects. 
• Checks status of State contractors’ licenses, business licenses, and verification of worker’s compensation insurance.
• Tracks time limitations and constraints on construction projects; prepares standard periodic and special reports as required; researches files regarding prior actions, decisions, development activities, and other information related to the property under review.
• Provides staff support for internal and external meetings including preparing, posting, and distributing public hearing notices, agendas, and informational packets, preparing staff reports, coordinating meeting logistics and room set-up, attending meetings, taking and transcribing minutes, and processing action items; prepares and posts public and legal noticing related to board, committee, and commission actions.
• Stays current on changing code, laws, manufacturers, and material requirements. 
• Communicates orally, in writing with colleagues, managers, employees, the public, and representatives of various organizations. 
• Performs related duties as assigned.

The City of Sausalito Is Seeking a Forward-Thinking, Enthusiastic Planner!

Is it YOU?

ASSISTANT PLANNER or ASSOCIATE PLANNER

Pay Rate: $39.89 - $53.46 for Assistant Planner

$45.59 - $61.09 for Associate Planner

Onsite at City office

4/ 9 hour days Monday - Thursday/ 36 hour work week

Plus an excellent benefits package

First Review: Friday, February, 20, 2026, 11:59 PM

The Assistant or Associate Planner administers mid-level to complex current and advanced planning activities, including serving as project manager for complex development applications and special projects. The incumbent administers specified activities in such areas as zoning, advance planning, and environmental impact studies, protection, and compliance, as well as the Capital Improvement Program (CIP). The Associate Planner provides information and assistance to property owners, developers, contractors, and the public, in addition to providing complex professional assistance to the Community Development Director, City Council, Planning Commission, and others in areas of expertise.

The successful candidate will have a great attitude, be a self-starter, detail-oriented, collaborative, capable of managing multiple projects and bringing them to completion, and serve as a contributing member of the planning team.

One position is available -- either Assistant Planner OR Associate Planner depending on qualifications and department needs.

• An Exciting and Challenging Opportunity to help shape, plan and design a rapidly growing community
• Enjoy an annual salary of $145,571 - $196,520, along with a host of benefits 
• Join a supportive team environment 

About the City of Millbrae

Located in the heart of San Mateo County, California, the City of Millbrae is a vibrant community with a rich history and an exciting future. With its breathtaking natural beauty, thriving economy, and world-class amenities, Millbrae is a gem of the Bay Area. Boasting top-rated schools, a bustling downtown area, and a host of recreational opportunities, there is something for everyone here. Whether you're looking to explore the great outdoors, indulge in some retail therapy, or savor delicious cuisine from around the world, Millbrae has it all. And with its close proximity to San Francisco and Silicon Valley, this city is truly a hub of innovation and opportunity. 

Embark on high-profile and cutting-edge development projects in Millbrae, focusing on sustainable planning, economic vitality, and enhanced community living. Contribute to innovative planning policies, vibrant economic strategies, and the beautification of open spaces, paving the way for a dynamic and flourishing future.

To learn more about us, please visit our website by ci.millbrae.ca.us

About the Opportunity

The City of Millbrae is looking for a full-time Planning Manager based in Millbrae, California.

Reporting to the Community Development Director, you will play a pivotal role in managing planning functions, leading staff, and shaping the city’s land use, housing, and environmental policies.

In this position, you will be primarily responsible for overseeing the Planning Division, managing current and long-range planning activities, supporting the city’s development goals, and representing the department across internal and external stakeholders.

More specifically, your responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Managing daily operations of the Planning Division and supervising assigned staff
• Developing and implementing division goals, policies, and work plans
• Preparing reports and making presentations to City Council, Planning Commission, and other bodies
• Overseeing planning-related studies, CEQA review, zoning ordinance updates, and design guidelines
• Administering the General Plan, housing programs, subdivision, and sign ordinances
• Coordinating activities with other City departments, agencies, and community partners
• Monitoring budget and overseeing consultant contracts
• Staying current on planning trends and laws to guide Millbrae’s continued smart growth

To read the full position description, please click here

More About You

Education: Graduation from a four-year college or university with major coursework in urban planning, architecture, public administration, housing, or a closely related field. A Master’s degree in a related field may be substituted for one year of required experience.

Experience: At least 5 years of professional experience in urban planning or housing, including 1 year in a supervisory or project lead role.

Licenses: Possession of a valid California Class C Driver’s License and a satisfactory driving record is required. Certification through the American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) is highly desirable.

Special Requirements: Ability to sit, talk, and hear clearly in person and by telephone; use hands to operate standard office equipment; and reach with hands and arms. Must be able to stand, walk, and perform site inspections on rough terrain and around construction areas. Specific vision requirements include close vision, color vision, and the ability to adjust focus.

Additionally, the following skills and background will be highly valued:

• Knowledge of general and specific plan development, zoning, and design guidelines
• Experience with current and long-range planning, housing policy, and CEQA compliance
• Ability to lead, supervise, train, and evaluate a multidisciplinary team
• Skilled in preparing technical reports, RFQs, and managing consultant contracts
• Familiarity with transit-oriented development and infill mixed-use planning
• Strong understanding of urban design, subdivision, and stormwater regulations (C.3)
• Ability to present clearly to City Council, Planning Commission, and community groups
• Proficiency in planning-related software and permit tracking tools
• Capacity to manage division budgets and coordinate across departments and agencies
• Commitment to applying sustainability and equity principles in the planning process

As our ideal candidate, you will possess strong leadership skills, political awareness, and the ability to guide staff through complex and evolving planning challenges. Your ability to communicate effectively, think strategically, and foster collaborative relationships will be key to your success.

This is a unique opportunity to step into a leadership role in one of the most rapidly growing communities in the region. Millbrae ranks sixth in population growth across California and first in San Mateo County. We are looking for someone ready to help shape the future of Millbrae through thoughtful, community-centered planning and innovative land use strategies.

The City of Sausalito is Seeking an Energetic, Enthusiastic, Skilled Team Member to Join our Planning and Building Team!

* Don’t miss this exciting opportunity *

PERMIT TECHNICIAN

$34.97 - $46.87 hourly

Plus an excellent benefits package!

FIRST REVIEW of applications:  Friday, February 20, 2026, at 11:59 PM

Open until filled

The City of Sausalito is seeking candidates who have a passion for planning and building, love people, and are avid learners to fill one full-time Permit Technician position to serve the Planning and Building Divisions in the Community Development Department.

Sausalito employees in this unit work four nine-hour days, Monday - Thursday for 36 hours a week.

The successful candidate will work seamlessly supporting the Planning team, Code Enforcement, the Building Inspector, and Chief Building Official in processing permit applications and in providing public counter services for both the planning and building divisions of the Community Development Department. 

The Building and Planning Permit Technician processes permits, issues over the counter permits, collects fees, advises the public, routes and collects plans to and from appropriate departments or consultants, reviews basic drawings and plans and permit packages for completeness, and performs related administrative/general office support and other duties as assigned to support both the building and planning divisions of the community development department. The class title for this position is Permit Technician.