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Position Summary

Under general direction from the Director of Planning, manages projects, leads and supervises staff and performs difficult and complex transit planning studies, investigations and analyses. Supports the three elements of the department work program: Short-Range and Service Planning, Long-Range Strategic Planning, and Facilities Planning. Develops various transit and traffic analyses, plans, and projects which include complying with requirements of CEQA, NEPA, Title VI and ADA. Develops, executes, analyzes and summarizes complex planning projects or manages consultant efforts to accomplish such projects. Coordinates the District’s data using sources from, Golden Gate Bridge Traffic and Toll Revenue Collection System and data from outside the District, and will plan for new data resources to be integrated into the District’s systems as they become available on-line. Provides District data regarding bridge, road and transit facilities, traffic data and performance, transit ridership and performance, and toll and parking policies to outside and partner agencies. 

Makes regular personal contact with District staff to interpret planning policy and interacts with outside public works and transit partner agency representatives to exchange planning and conceptual design information.  Regularly works with the public and other agencies to develop and implement District programs. Receives general assignments or objectives from the Director of Planning, and performs related duties as required or assigned.

Essential Responsibilities

• Researches, compiles, analyzes and interprets complex technical, demographic, economic, financial and other statistical data for the development of various roadway and transit facility plans and projects such as the District's transit service plan, transit capital improvement program, proposed bridge tolls  or parking facilities.
• Monitors and evaluates transit service performance, bridge traffic patterns, parking occupancy and trends, and transit service patronage, including the use of computer techniques or models where appropriate
• Prepares, or supervises preparation of, routine evaluations of the efficiency and effectiveness of bus on-street operations, major transit facilities and bus stops.  Recommends specific improvements based on these evaluations
• Assists in the preparation of the District's Short-Range Transit Plan and other federal and state required reports, including the organization of meetings between various staff providing input to these reports on an as-needed basis
• Leads teams of planning and other staff working on planning projects.  Develops project staffing requirements and timelines
• Prepares official recommendations and informational reports for consideration by the general public, the District's Board of Directors, technical staff of the District or other agencies and other groups on technical and planning subjects. Prepares or assists with verbal presentations to staff groups, public groups, and the boards of local municipalities and advises District personnel on matters related to interactions with these groups
• Supports and coordinates staff responsibilities with regard to monthly meetings of the District’s Service Review Committee and other internal and external coordination meetings as directed
• Acts, when directed, as liaison between the District and other agencies on planning matters by reviewing outside reports, attending meetings, drafting correspondence and providing technical information to public agencies and other transit groups.  Communicates with the general public on technical matters related to facility planning and District data
• Supervises or provides staff support and coordination to certain advisory groups to the District, including the District’s three Passenger Advisory Committees (Bus Passengers Advisory Committee, Ferry Passengers Advisory Committee, and Advisory Committee on Accessibility), as appropriate when specific questions related to bus, ferry, or bridge traffic operations or facilities need a response.
• Prepares scopes of work for planning projects to be undertaken by consultants; coordinates the process of consultant selection; provides technical liaison with consultants and coordinates contract administration
• May assist District Engineering Department with development of capital projects related to transportation and traffic support facilities
• Represents Director of Planning in their absence at various District meetings, meetings with other public agencies, and with the Planning Department  
• May assign and supervise work of Senior Planner and Associate Planners
• Performs related duties as assigned
• Ensures that employees under his or her supervision follow established safe work practices and obey all safety rules
• Regular and reliable attendance and performance is required

Full Job Description and Apply URL:  Principal Planner | Job Details tab | Career Pages

The Department of Planning and Development is currently recruiting for one Senior Planner vacancy:

This Senior Planner will play a crucial role in reviewing complex professional-level tasks related to land use and planning laws, zoning, housing, discretionary entitlements with associated report writing for consideration by the County Zoning Administrator and/or Planning Commission, and the review of building permits and environmental analysis under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). The Senior Planner will also serve as the lead on assigned projects, which may include overseeing a number of programs (examples include: County General Plan & Housing Element, Surface Mining and Reclamation Act, Santa Clara Valley Ag Plan, and Habitat Plan) and works independently, assuming responsibility for more complex projects (such as Stanford master planning), and must be resourceful and responsive to specialized assignments from Executive Management or the Board of Supervisors. The Senior Planner may also be responsible for reviewing development and parcel maps/subdivision proposals, as well as building plans, and permits. The County will be embarking upon a comprehensive General Plan Update, and other various vision plans and may be expected to oversee and manage these efforts. The County also processes large and complex private development applications for large private institutional uses, new quarries, places of worship and agricultural processing campuses. A Senior Planner with areas of expertise related to long-range/comprehensive planning and/or major project development processing experience, coupled with strong CEQA experience is desired. 

In addition to meeting the employment standards for a Senior Planner, candidates must possess in-depth knowledge and working experience in two (2) or more of the following areas:

• Preparing advanced California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) documents (e.g., Initial Studies, Mitigated Negative Declarations, Environmental Impact Reports).
• Experience in complex medium- to large-scale development entitlement projects such as campus planning, industrial, commercial, housing, agricultural housing or processing developments, or similar projects requiring advanced CEQA processing, staff report writing, data management and analysis, public outreach and public hearings.
• Experience in the management of CEQA and technical consultants, including meeting coordination, reviewing work products, and contracting/billing. Experience in managing consultants to ensure the project is completed within the approved timeline and budget with the proper deliverable is required.
• General requirements of the Surface Mining and Reclamation Act (SMARA), preparation of annual surface mining inspection reports, and review and approval of Financial Assurance Cost Estimate (FACE), Reclamation Plans, and Mining Plans (desired, not required).
• Analytical understanding of State laws and regulations impacting land use and local government, with directly related work products that include major ordinance revisions and creation and processing of new programs. This would include preparation of professional staff reports of summarized data, conclusions and recommendations.
• Have conducted as a lead project manager or co-project manager long-range, comprehensive planning projects; e.g., general plan updates, major zoning ordinance amendments, specific plans, vision plans, etc., with working knowledge of the principals and practices of such working documents.

Filing Period and Application Procedure

Final Filing Date: Open until filled. The recruitment may be extended or closed as early as 10 days after the issue date.  You are encouraged to apply as soon as possible and to monitor this site for updated closing information.

The first review of applications is tentatively scheduled for the week of August 04, 2025.

TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THIS POSITION, PLEASE CLICK THE JOB ANNOUCEMENT URL OR JOB PDF BELOW.

• Are you a detail-oriented planning professional with experience in development review, zoning interpretation, and environmental analysis?
• Do you value thoughtful land use decisions, high-quality residential design standards, and meaningful public engagement?
• Are you looking to grow your career in a small, service-focused organization where your work has a visible impact on the community?

If so, the Town of Los Altos Hills invites you to apply and become part of a collaborative team committed to maintaining the character and quality of one of the region’s most distinctive residential communities.

Location

26379 Fremont Rd. Los Altos Hills, 94022

About the Town

Los Altos Hills is primarily a residential community of approximately 8,000 residents within an 8.6 square mile area. An additional 5.8 square mile area of unincorporated land adjacent to the Town’s boundaries is within Los Altos Hills’ sphere of influence. The Town is home to Foothill College. Town Hall, constructed in 2005, provides a modern and comfortable work environment and is within walking distance of downtown Los Altos.

Residents are known for their strong civic engagement and active participation in Town governance. The Town’s inclusive and open approach to local government is central to its identity and contributes to its reputation as a thoughtful and progressive community.

The Town organization includes 27 full-time employees across Administrative Services, Engineering, Planning, Public Works, Parks & Recreation, and the City Clerk’s Office. Law enforcement services are provided by the Santa Clara County Sheriff’s Department, and fire protection is provided by the Los Altos Hills County Fire District.

• 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.