Search Jobs

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.

Principal Planner

The City of Sunnyvale is seeking a Principal Planner to join the Community Development Department.  Under the direction of the Assistant Director of Community Development or Planning Officer, the Planning Division is organized into teams which are overseen by Principal Planners who plan, direct, perform and supervise a variety of complex technical planning activities, and related work as required, relative to the assigned area of responsibility.

• The Current Planning Team reviews and acts or makes recommendations on planning applications and performs reviews of building permit applications and business licenses for zoning compliance. 
• The Administrative Support Team supports the Planning Officer and all Planners for the City. This position may act as the Zoning Administrator, overseeing regulatory processes and issues related to California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and other regulatory compliance and requirements, process improvements, training needs, coordination with area governments and other administrative and supervisory functions. 
• The Policy Planning Team works on study issues, new area plans, and General Plan updates, conducting intergovernmental reviews of other agencies' proposals and pending legislation.

The City of Sunnyvale provides an excellent benefits package.  A complete application packet will consist of a City of Sunnyvale employment application and responses to the required supplemental questions. The final filing date is Monday, May 11, at 5:00 pm. For complete information regarding this opportunity, please visit: Sunnyvale.ca.gov.

Salary: $153,784 - $192,230 Annually

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 City of Auburn is looking for an Associate Planner to join their team. We're looking for an individual to help convey land development policies, process various land use applications, and present impactful reports. Join our team and play a key role in shaping our community's future!

SUMMARY DESCRIPTION

Performs technical and paraprofessional work supporting both the department and City planning operations including current and long-range planning,  environmental compliance review, processing development proposals, interacting with applicants, developers, consultants, the public, and external agencies, organizations and community groups, and other technical-level functions.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS

A paraprofessional classification requiring administrative, analytical, and specialized technical skills to perform semi-complex municipal planning duties. The role is distinguished from lower classifications by its scope of work and requirements for specialized training and technical proficiency in planning. This classification performs recurring tasks and solves problems independently under general supervision from the department director or assigned supervisor, and does not exercise supervision over staff.

REPRESENTATIVE DUTIES

The following duties are typical for this classification. Actual work may vary based on department needs or change due to evolving business practices.

• Perform a wide range of administrative, operational, and technical tasks supporting planning programs and functions.
• Process, review, and evaluate plans, required planning documents and construction plans for completeness, consistency, and regulatory compliance.
• Administer zoning, land use, subdivision, and environmental regulations; provide recommendations on project issues, and assist applicants to ensure all requirements are met within established time frames.
• Interact with the public, and internal and external stakeholders;  serve as liaison to City staff, applicants, developers, consultants, and external organizations and agencies regarding City codes, policies, processes, and requirements.
• Conduct site visits; investigate zoning issues and complaints; advise property owners, developers, and the public on relevant City ordinances and regulations.
• Prepare reports and make public presentations to the Planning Commission, City Council, and other public groups.
• Conduct specialized planning studies, research, and analysis for current and long-range planning issues, including environmental evaluations and General Plan updates.
• Develop ordinances, resolutions, and regulations related to planning matters.
• Oversee and coordinate the current planning process including project scheduling for Historic Design Review Committee and Planning Commission, and project review with other staff.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date planning records and data.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORKING ENVIRONMENT

The conditions herein are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential job functions.

Work is performed primarily in a standard office setting with some travel to various on-site locations. Primary functions require sufficient physical ability and mobility to work in the field on-site and in an office setting including stand or sit for prolonged periods of time; occasionally stoop, bend, kneel, crouch, reach and twist; lift, carry, push and/or pull light to moderate amounts of weight; operate office equipment requiring repetitive hand movement and fine coordination including use of a computer keyboard and calculator; occasionally work in outside weather conditions; incumbents may be required to work extended hours including evenings and weekends; ability to operate a vehicle to travel to various locations; verbally communicate to exchange information; vision to see in the normal visual range with or without correction, and read computer screens and printed documents; and hearing and speech in the normal audio range to communicate in person, before groups and over the telephone with or without correction.

DESCRIPTION:

The Department:

The Community Development Department strives to enhance the community’s safety, welfare, quality of life, and economic opportunities by providing advanced planning, development review, permitting and inspection services, as well as administration of programs related to affordable housing. To learn more about the City of Santa Clara's Department of Community Development/Housing click here.

The Position:

The Senior Planner is the advanced journey level classification in the professional Planner series. An incumbent in this classification is responsible for performing complex planning duties in the administration of land use regulations, the City's General Plan, Housing Element, environmental review, and design review.  The Senior Planner is distinguished from the Associate Planner classification as they perform lead, supervisory responsibilities.

This Senior Planner position will be primarily assigned to advanced or long-range planning implementing the City’s Housing Element, including preparing Annual Progress Reports, monitoring Regional Housing Needs Allocations, developing, implementing, and monitoring policies, data analysis & reporting, and community engagement activities.

The ideal candidate is expected to be familiar with state planning and housing laws, including state density bonus requirements, and Housing Element requirements. They should be able to demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the laws and the local implementing ordinances to ensure the City is in compliance. This position will also play a key role in advancing housing-related initiatives, many of which are part of the Housing Element programs.

The ideal candidate will be a motivated self-starter able to work independently, and with a team. They will be able to communicate effectively with supervisors, colleagues, consultants, decision-makers, and the public. Creativity, critical thinking, ability to perform research and analyses are essential traits.

Additional Information:

Applications must be filled out completely (e.g. do not write “see resume, NA, or personnel file.”). To receive consideration for the screening process, candidates must submit a 1) Cover Letter and, 2) Resume. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

Application packets may be submitted online through the “Apply Now” feature on the job announcement at www.santaclaraca.gov. Applications must be submitted by the filing deadline of May 19, 2026 at 4:00 PM.

THIS RECRUITMENT MAY BE USED TO FILL MULTIPLE POSITIONS IN THIS, OR OTHER DIVISIONS OR DEPARTMENTS BESIDES THE POSITIONS LISTED ABOVE.  IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN EMPLOYMENT IN THIS CLASSIFICATION, YOU SHOULD APPLY TO ENSURE YOU ARE CONSIDERED FOR ADDITIONAL OPPORTUNITIES THAT MAY UTILIZE THE APPLICANTS FROM THIS RECRUITMENT. MEETING THE MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS DOES NOT GUARANTEE ADMITTANCE INTO THE EXAMINATION PROCESS.  ONLY THE MOST QUALIFIED CANDIDATES WHO DEMONSTRATE THE BEST COMBINATION OF QUALIFICATIONS IN RELATION TO THE REQUIREMENTS AND DUTIES OF THE POSITION WILL BE INVITED TO TEST OR INTERVIEW. APPLICANTS WILL BE CONSIDERED FOR POSITIONS ADHERING TO ALL APPLICABLE CITY POLICIES, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO CMD 033- EMPLOYMENT OF RELATIVES.

The annual salary range for this position is $142 073.76 - $181 441.8.  This position may be filled at or near the minimum of the salary range.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Minimum Education Requirements:

A Bachelor's Degree from an accredited college or university in Urban and Regional Planning, Environmental Studies, Architecture, or closely related field.

Minimum Experience Requirements:

Four (4) years of professional municipal or regional planning experience.

Acceptable Substitution:

• Two (2) years professional planning experience as an Associate Planner with the City of Santa Clara may be substituted for the required experience.

• A Master's Degree from an accredited college or university in City Planning or closely related field may be substituted for one year of the required experience.

Desirable Qualifications:

• Computer proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), permit tracking software, such as Accela.

• Depending on position assignment, experience in a particular specialty such as current planning, advanced or long-range planning, California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), and/or Geographic Information Systems (GIS) mapping, or database development.

• Experience developing and delivering public presentations.

• Planning experience in a lead or supervisory capacity.

• Possession of a certification from the American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP).

Other Requirements: 

• Will be expected to work evenings and weekends as required.

• Must be able to perform all of the essential functions of the job assignment.

Follow this link to view the entire Class Specification, which includes more information on Typical Duties and Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities.

Candidates must attain a passing score on each phase of the examination process to qualify for the Eligible List. A department interview may be required prior to appointment.

Federal law requires all employees to provide verification of their eligibility to work in this country. Please be informed that the City of Santa Clara will not sponsor, represent, or sign documents related to visa applications/transfers for H1B or any other type of visa which requires an employer application.  

PERMANENT CITY EMPLOYEES PREFERENCE POINTS: Current permanent employee candidates who receive a passing score on the examination will have an additional five (5) points added to their final score.

The City of Santa Clara is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants for all job openings will be considered without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, disability, veteran status or any other consideration made unlawful under any federal, state or local laws. The City of Santa Clara is committed to offering reasonable accommodations to job applicants with disabilities. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, please contact us at (408) 615-2080 or HumanResources@santaclaraca.gov.

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.