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Principal Planner | Senior Planner | Associate Planner

One (1) vacancy. Application deadline: Apply by Sunday, June 28, 2026, at 5:00 p.m., for first consideration. 

• Principal Planner: $134,700 - $163,728 annually
• Senior Planner: $116,448 - $141,552 annually
• Associate Planner: $102,912 - $125,088 annually

THE CITY is focused on enhancing our community members’ quality of life through well-designed services and a positive workplace culture. San Rafael is the economic and cultural heart of Marin County, and its high quality of life is centered on its commercial districts, engaged neighborhoods, active lifestyle, and natural environment. San Rafael, with a population of approximately 60,000, is a full-service city with a City Council/City Manager form of government with 12 departments, more than 400 employees, and a fiscal year 2025-2026 annual budget of approximately $192 million. The City’s vision is to be a vibrant economic and cultural center reflective of its diversity. The City Council is engaged and seeks to strengthen the urban and commercial areas as well as sustain the beautiful natural environment. 

San Rafael’s Organizational culture framework is an initiative called “Together San Rafael.” City employees are our greatest asset, and we seek talented individuals with diverse backgrounds who are creative, curious, and excited about a challenge. We are a results-driven team focused on the needs of community members. The Together San Rafael initiative is focused on modernizing City services and increasing the engagement of employees. This initiative recognizes the interconnectedness of the customer and employee experience. 

THE DEPARTMENT

In recent years, the City of San Rafael has seen an unprecedented interest in development and growth, and our department has responded with collaborative focus on creating a thriving, sustainable community that meets the needs of our diverse population. 

The Community & Economic Development Department is comprised of five divisions with a total fiscal year 2025-2026 budget of over $7 million and 24 full-time employees. 

The Community & Economic Development Department is comprised of five divisions: 

• Planning, Building, Housing & Code Enforcement Divisions: Support the City’s land use entitlement, construction and inspection permitting, housing policy, and community code compliance programs.
• Economic Development Division: Creates and maintains a thriving economic environment for businesses and residents by providing resources, primarily through the one-stop-shop “San Rafael Go” Program.

IDEAL CANDIDATE

The Community & Economic Development Department (C&ED) has 1 vacancy to be filled at either the Principal Planner, Senior Planner, or Associate Planner classification. The Planning Division plays a critical role in shaping the future of San Rafael and establishing a positive initial impression for members of the public engaging with the Community and Economic Development Department.

The ideal candidate for the Principal Planner is an experienced planning professional with deep knowledge of California land use and environmental laws, including extensive experience with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and Tribal Consultation.  This individual provides strong technical leadership over the review of development applications and is confident exercising independent authority.  The successful candidate is an effective manager who values consistency, customer service, and can clearly communicate technical requirements to staff, professionals, and the public.

The ideal candidate for the Senior Planner is a seasoned planning professional with strong technical expertise and proven project management experience.  This individual brings comprehensive knowledge of California planning and environmental laws and is skilled in overseeing the review of complex development applications including managing California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) review and Tribal Consultation. The successful candidate is an effective project manager experienced with high conflict and litigious projects, writing and managing proposals, managing consultants, and working collaboratively with various departments. They are comfortable managing large project teams and serving as the primary point of contact for applicants, design professionals, and the public, resolving disputes and complaints with professionalism and sound judgment.  The ideal candidate communicates clearly, collaborates effectively with other City departments and outside agencies, and provides reliable advice and support to the Principal Planner and Planning Manager to ensure the efficient, compliant, and customer-focused operation of the Planning Division. 

The ideal candidate for the Associate Planner is capable of independently processing development applications, including experience with Sign Permits, Design Review, Use Permit, Lot Line Adjustment/Merger, and Variance application types. This individual can prepare and analyze professional planning studies respond to public inquiries regarding the City’s General Plan, Zoning Code, and Subdivision Ordinance, and has experience presenting development projects before public boards and commissions. This candidate has excellent customer service skills and can navigate high conflict situations.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Principal Planner - This list is meant to be representative, not exhaustive. CLICK HERE for the full job spec.

• Plans, organizes, and directs the overall work activities of the long-range planning, current
  planning, and/or permit service programs.
• Reviews and evaluates the job performance of subordinate personnel, identifies professional
  development needs, and provides training as needed.
• Oversees the review and analysis of development proposals or planning studies, including
  participation in more complex and major projects.
• Interprets, implements, and enforces the General Plan, zoning codes, and other codes related
  to the maintenance of community standards.
• Make presentations on planning background recommendations before the Design Review
  Board, Planning Commission, City Council, community groups and organizations.
• Works with other City departments and governmental jurisdictions in coordinating the division's
  programs and projects.
• Conducts research and analysis of land use and related issues. Prepares environmental review
  documents. Prepares written reports.
• Supervises a professional and clerical planning staff.
• Produces and/or Coordinates public events, committee meetings, and community workshops.
• Assists the Director with budget preparation and manages the section’s budget.

Senior Planner - This list is meant to be representative, not exhaustive. CLICK HERE for the full job spec.

•  Supervises professional and/or technical staff engaged in City planning activities.
  Establishes priorities and defining processing requirements.
• Responds to questions and issues raised by the City staff, developers, contractors, architects,
  engineers, and the general public; interpret the General Plan, zoning code and related ordinances
  or City regulations.
• Conducts research and special studies.
• Coordinates projects and activities with other City departments and outside agencies.
• Manages consulting contracts for planning projects.
• Makes presentations before community groups, Boards, Commissions and/or the City Council.

Associate Planner - This list is meant to be representative, not exhaustive. CLICK HERE for the full job spec.

• Responds to inquiries from the public by providing information regarding the General Plan, the
  Zoning and Subdivisions Ordinances and statistical data.
• Receives and reviews land use permits, design review applications, zoning and General Plan
  amendments for conformance with the General Plan, Zoning, and Subdivision Ordinances and
  other requirements; and prepares staff reports recommending appropriate action.
• Conducts environmental review including preparation of initial studies and negative declarations,
  technical and administrative support on the preparation of Environmental Impact Reports and staff reports on all phases of environmental review.
• Performs detailed planning studies, research and analysis to support development of long-range
  policies and plans, as well as implementation ordinances for the City’s growth and development.
• Prepares and analyzes various professional planning studies including, but not limited to,
  demographics, traffic and historic resources.
• Prepares General Plan elements such as the Housing Element by drafting and finalizing plan
  documents; researching materials and making presentations to committees, the Planning
  Commission and the City Council.
• Prepares reports and studies and represents the department before the public, other agencies,
  and developer representatives.
• Attends and participates in meetings of the Design Review Board, Planning Commission, City Council, special committees and neighborhood groups.

CORE COMPETENCIES 

Principal Planner

• Highly familiar with California Planning Law, Environmental Quality Act and Subdivision Map Act.
• Capable of leading the long-range planning or current planning programs.
• Communicate effectively, orally and in writing.
• Supervise professional, technical and/or office support staff.
• Manage professional services budget.

Senior Planner

• Familiar with California Planning Law, Environmental Quality Act and Subdivision Map Act.
• Responds to questions and issues raised by the City staff, developers, contractors, architects.
• Manage consultant contracts.
• Coordinate the review of complex development applications.

Associate Planner

• Independently apply the City’s zoning code, subdivision ordinance and general plan.
• Respond to inquiries from the public regarding the City’s General Plan, Zoning Code, and Subdivision Ordinance.
• Capable of presenting to Planning Commission and City Council.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE

Principal Planner

Any combination of education and experience that demonstrates possession of the requisite

knowledges, skill and abilities.

A typical way to obtain these would be:

• AICP Certification or Masters in planning; and
• Five years municipal planning experience including two years in a lead or supervisory position.

Senior Planner

• Graduation from a recognized college or university with a Bachelor’s degree in Planning or related
• field and five years of increasingly responsible professional planning experience.
• A Master’s degree in Planning may be substituted for one year of experience.
• Public agency experience desirable.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills required.

Associate Planner

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in planning, urban studies, geography or related field and three (3) years of full-time work experience at the Assistant Planner level in municipal or regional planning.
• Any combination of education, experience, and training which demonstrates possession of and
• competency in requisite knowledge and abilities may substitute for the education (degree) on a year-
• for-year basis.
• A Master’s degree in planning or a related field may substitute for one (1) year of the required work experience.

All Levels

• Must possess a valid California driver’s license and have a satisfactory driving record.

Open Until Filled- Apply Immediately.

Applications accepted until minimum number meeting our qualifications have been received.

Interviews: TBA

Resumes are not accepted in lieu of completing a City application.

THE POSITION

The City of Daly City is seeking a dynamic and experienced Economic Development Program Manager to join the Office of the City Manager. This new position is an opportunity to shape and lead innovative programs that enhance the local economy, reimagine and activate the environment and attract, retain and support businesses in the Daly City community.

The Economic Development Program Manager plays a vital role in fostering relationships with the business community, developing and implementing economic development strategies, all while providing direct support to meet business needs. The diverse range of work in partnership building, policy development, long-term visioning, program implementation, data analysis and research provides an exciting and fulfilling opportunity.

As a top priority for the City, the Economic Development Program Manager will ensure the City addresses the needs of local businesses and provides opportunities for their success, as well as identify new businesses to enhance the City’s overall economic health. This also includes regular outreach to local businesses to offer assistance through referrals to state and federal programs, and strategic planning for expansion approval. This position must create and maintain partnerships with multiple associations community organizations and State and Federal re-sources.

DEFINITION

Under the direction of the City Manager or their designee, the Economic Development Program Manager develops, coordinates, and implements the City’s economic development programs and related activities; works with commercial and retail businesses, developers and property owners and managers on potential opportunity sites, assists applicants and business in their dealings with the City, initiates key economic activities based on the City’s General Plan, provides economic data to inform key city policy decisions; manages Grant funding opportunities for economic development, develops and implements marketing, branding and outreach activities for attraction and retention of businesses in Daly City and performs related work as required.

EXAMPLES OF DUTIES

Duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:
• Develop and update the City’s Economic Development and Business Strategy and develop an action plan to implement the strategy and economic development programs on a citywide basis.
• Manage grant and funding opportunities to support economic initiatives; oversee administration of economic development grants and contracts.
• Develop financing sources for various programs through communication and negotiation with agencies of the State and Federal government, the private sector and nonprofit foundations.
• Facilitate the attraction, retention, growth and success of Daly City businesses through active engagement, business assistance, provision of information, marketing, and outreach.
• Conduct feasibility assessments for establishing Business Improvement District (BID)
• Oversee and coordinate Economic Development events and festivals.
• Serve as Primary Liaison to the Small Business Commission
• Administer Regulatory Business Programs
• Participate in business conferences related to Economic Development
• Be active in the real estate environment to track real estate trends and work with developers and property owners or property managers to identify and evaluate opportunity sites that are vacant or likely to change hands
• Continuously valuate and review economic development program goals, objectives, and strategies and recommend changes to programs, policies or procedures that will facilitate ongoing success to attract and recruit new businesses to activate and fill vacant commercial spaces.
• Identify, develop and analyze data to assess trends, issues and opportunities affecting businesses and the City in order to effectively support local businesses.
• Serve as the primary liaison to the Daly City/Colma Chamber of Commerce and effectively maintain the relationship between the Daly City/Colma Chamber of Commerce, and other private and public organizations related to business and economic development.
• Create and foster effective business relationships with key stakeholders to facilitate business attraction and retention that will support the economic development and growth of the City.
• Identify and recommend revisions to ordinances and policies that may hinder business operations to improve economic conditions, functionality and aesthetics.
• Assist applicants, business representatives and developers in dealings with the City on the entitlement and building permit approval process and other needs.
• May assist in the recommendation of policies and programs pertaining to the fiscal and economic development of the City.
• Prepare reports and make presentations to business and community groups, City Commissions and Boards, City Council and the public.
• May prepare and administer the budget for Economic Development Program.
• Supervise and train one Economic Development Program Specialist
• Professionally and effectively represent the City of Daly City in developing relationships between the City and representatives of private sector development opportunities, business community and city staff.
• Perform related duties as assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Knowledge of: Principals, issues and practices of economic and commercial development, redevelopment, land use planning and permitting, business retention, public policy and business development including best practices, marketing/marketing research; statistical analysis and research methods and the sources of information and data pertaining to economic development, business retention; evaluation and analysis of pro formas; the State of California Redevelopment Law; private sector development techniques; Applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations concerning economic development activity in urban areas, real estate, public land acquisition, redevelopment and land use; Federal and State Grants regulations, Grant writing and grant administration oversight and implementation experience; Effective methods of gaining consensus and building support for objectives; Principles and practices of organization, administration, budget and supervision.

Ability to: Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing. Effectively and professionally represent the City to the business community and the public, Research and communicate economic trends, including vacancy rates, lease rates, and land values, Interpret and explain laws and regulations related to zoning regulations, land acquisition, and economic development, research proposals, evaluate alternatives, and make sound recommendations within established policy guidelines, Exercise good judgment, flexibility, creativity and sensitivity in response to changing situations and needs, adapt, change and be receptive to new direction and shifting City priorities. Understand and apply interpersonal skills to work effectively with the local business community, internal partners and external partners. Plan, prioritize, communicate, delegate and monitor a variety of concurrent projects. Analyze and synthesize data and complex information; write comprehensive reports. Supervise, train, and evaluate one employee. Effectively prepare grants, written reports and recommendations; prepare and present reports at public meetings; deal effectively with the public; establish and maintain effective working relationships with staff, City officials, local commissions; provide strong administrative, fiscal management and policy analysis skills; be professional, respond to phone and electronic correspondence in a timely manner to the public and city employees, interact positively and cooperate with co-workers, respond politely to customers, work as a team member, function under demanding time pressure, respond in a positive manner to supervision, and attend work and perform duties on a regular and consistent basis.

Education: Graduation from college or university with a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration, Economics, Marketing, Planning, Public Administration or a related field.

Experience: Four years of increasingly responsible experience and demonstrated proficiency in economic development, real estate financing, commercial real estate, redevelopment, or planning, including two years of supervisory experience. Working knowledge of California planning law and practice is desirable.

License: Possession of a valid California Class C California Drivers License.