Senior Planner

About the Department

DEFINITION

Under general direction, performs advanced professional planning work in current and long-range planning; serves as project manager for complex development applications and planning initiatives; ensures compliance with applicable laws and regulations; and provides technical leadership and guidance to staff. This position also supports department leadership, commissions, and City Council through analysis, reports, and presentations.

Receives general direction from the Director of Community Development. May provide technical and functional supervision to assigned staff.

This is the advanced journey-level classification in the professional planning series. Incumbents manage complex and sensitive planning projects, exercise independent judgment, and coordinate across departments and agencies. This classification is distinguished from the Planning Manager by its focus on high-level technical expertise rather than full managerial authority.

Position Duties

• Manages complex current and long-range planning projects, including development applications, policy initiatives, and special studies.
• Reviews development proposals, plans, and permits for compliance with zoning, environmental regulations, and applicable codes.
• Serves as project manager, coordinating with applicants, consultants, and agencies; tracks project timelines and ensures conditions of approval are met.
• Prepares and presents staff reports, environmental documents, and recommendations to the Planning Commission, City Council, and other bodies.
• Interprets and applies federal, state, and local laws and regulations, including CEQA, Subdivision Map Act, Coastal Act, and Municipal Code.
• Conducts research and analysis on land use, housing, economic development, and environmental issues; develops recommendations and policy options.
• Coordinates plan review activities across City departments and external agencies.
• Oversees and manages consultant work to ensure quality, timeliness, and compliance with City standards.
• Provides information and assistance to the public, developers, and stakeholders; resolves complex issues and negotiates project conditions.
• Participates in the development and implementation of departmental goals, policies, and procedures.
• Assists in training, mentoring, and evaluating staff as assigned.
• Represents the City at public meetings, hearings, and professional forums.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

Knowledge of:

• Principles and practices of urban and regional planning
• Zoning, land use, and development review processes
• Environmental review processes, including CEQA
• Applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations
• Project management and contract administration
• Research methods, data analysis, and report preparation
• Public administration principles and customer service practices
• Modern office technology and planning-related software

• Manage multiple complex projects and meet deadlines
• Analyze technical information and develop sound recommendations
• Interpret and apply laws, regulations, and policies
• Communicate clearly and effectively, both orally and in writing
• Prepare and present reports to decision-making bodies
• Build and maintain effective working relationships
• Exercise sound judgment and decision-making
• Coordinate work across departments and with external stakeholders

Equivalent to a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in urban planning, public administration, or a related field, and:

Five (5) years of progressively responsible professional planning experience.