JOB DESCRIPTION

SENIOR PLANNER - PROJECT PLANNING

Exceptional Professional Planning Career Opportunity! Be part of a Progressive and Recognized Land Use/Environmental Program!

The County of San Diego is seeking passionate and forward-thinking professionals for the Senior Planner, Project Planning role. This is your chance to make a real impact on the future of our communities — managing complex discretionary projects, reviewing in-depth planning and environmental studies, effectively engaging with stakeholders and shaping recommendations that guide the region's development and conservation.

Planning & Development Services: Project Planning

The Project Planning division reviews privately initiated, discretionary projects, specifically the review for compliance and conformance with Federal, State, and Local ordinances and policies including the General Plan, Zoning Ordinance, California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), and Community plans. The Project Planning Division is responsible for managing all aspects of new development projects in the County, including new affordable and market housing, renewable energy projects like solar and battery storage, and commercial and mixed-use projects. In processing projects, the Project Planning Division engages with the public, management, stakeholders, and consultants and gives presentations to appointed and elected officials, including the Board of Supervisors.

The Position

PDS employs Senior Planners who possess extensive expertise and leadership capabilities in overseeing highly advanced, complex, delicate and challenging planning initiatives. Senior Planners may conduct research and prepare plans, reports, studies, and memos on land use, physical, social, and economic issues; and synthesize and present information, report and other findings to internal and external stakeholders, advisory boards, and elected officials.

Key Responsibilities

• Performs planning and environmental review of complex discretionary projects for compliance with the County General Plan, Zoning Ordinance, California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and develops recommendations for adoption by decision-making bodies
• Senior Planners independently review a wide scope of discretionary projects characterized by having substantial public controversy, and of the highest complexity such as general plan amendments, specific plans, major use permits, and tentative maps
• Provides responsive, high-quality service to County staff, partner agencies, developers, and the public

Ideal Candidate Profile

• Proven professional level experience as a land use or environmental planner, with experience managing complex discretionary projects involving several functional groups
• A strong willingness to continually learn and grow professionally
• A professional perspective and objective demeanor when positive or difficult situations occur
• The ability to communicate effectively in verbal and written form; strong presentation skills; and be a good listener
• Good interpersonal and teamwork skills, including building relationships and collaborating with internal and external stakeholders to keep projects moving in a positive direction
• Strong analytical skills and a solution-oriented approach to land use and environmental planning issues

If you believe that you possess these qualities, then the County of San Diego's Planning & Development Services would be an ideal place for your talents. We have a great culture that values collaboration and teamwork.

If interested, apply directly online at: Senior Planner-Project Planning-25355010PP | Job Details tab | Career Pages