Description
We’re looking for thoughtful urban planners to join the Planning Department and help us shape Lafayette’s future!
The City of Lafayette (pop. 24,000) is looking for an entry-level professional in urban planning -- our next Planning Technician. This role will be expected to provide clear analysis and excellent customer service. The Planning Technician will have the opportunity to work in the field of current planning, including review of development and land use applications, zoning, site plan and environmental review.
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.
Ideal Candidate
As Planning Technician, you will take on major duties, including:
- Assist the public at the front counter.
- Review applications for completeness and compliance with appropriate regulations and policies.
- Participate in analyzing and researching land use data and trends.
- Prepare written reports on planning matters.
- Process permit applications and assist in plan checking of permit requests.
- Confer with applicants to clarify information relative to zoning, general plan compliance, signage and other issues.
As the ideal candidate, you are:
- Experienced with at least one year of relevant professional history in planning, zoning and related community development activities.
- A high energy professional who is self-motivated, creative, and tactful.
- Detail-oriented and have strong analytical skills.
- An excellent communicator with strong writing and public speaking skills
An Associate’s degree with coursework in urban planning, economics, business or public administration, or a related field is required.
Must be available for some evening hours to attend City Council and Commission meetings.
Benefits
- Retirement Security – Up to 15% City-paid contributions to a 401-A plan, including a 5% match for a total potential contribution amount of 20%. Ability to also enroll into additional voluntary 457 plan. We do not participate in CalPERS retirement.
- Health & Wellness – City covers 95% of health and dental insurance costs for employees and their eligible dependents or provides an allowance equal to 15% of salary towards deferred compensation plan if you have alternate medical coverage.
- Life Insurance – City provides a fully paid $50,000 life insurance policy.
- Ancillary Benefits – Optional Vision, FSA & Commuter plans, and supplemental Life Insurance available.
- Generous Time Off – 11.5 days of starting vacation accrual, 12 days of sick leave accrual, and 13 paid holidays.
- Commuter Reimbursement – Receive 50% reimbursement on BART fare commuting to and from work.
- Employee Assistance Program – Free and confidential support for personal and professional challenges including counseling, financial wellness coaching, legal consultation, and more for employees and their eligible dependents.
Special Instructions
This is your chance to be part of a team that’s not just planning for tomorrow — but actively building it today. If you're ready to join our Planning team as our next Planning Technician, apply today!