Municipal Planner

Position Overview: We are seeking a Municipal Planner to support development review, zoning administration, and environmental compliance for municipal projects and private development proposals. The ideal candidate will apply expertise in zoning regulations, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and CEQA/NEPA to evaluate proposals, prepare environmental and planning documents, and coordinate with agencies and the community to implement land use policies and projects that advance the public interest.

Key Responsibilities: Review development applications for consistency with zoning regulations, general plan policies, and municipal codes, and prepare staff reports and recommendations for decision-makers. Use GIS to analyze spatial data, prepare maps, maintain planning datasets, and support visual presentations and technical analyses. Prepare, review, and manage CEQA and NEPA documentation, including Initial Studies, Environmental Assessments, Mitigated Negative Declarations, and EIR/EIS support, coordinating with consultants and regulatory agencies as needed. Conduct site analyses and land use evaluations to assess constraints, opportunities, and project feasibility, including analysis of circulation, infrastructure, and environmental factors. Coordinate environmental impact assessments and related technical studies (e.g., biological, hydrology, cultural resources) to inform project decisions and mitigation measures. Engage with applicants, property owners, community members, and stakeholders through public meetings, workshops, and hearings to explain planning processes and gather input. Support transportation planning efforts by reviewing traffic studies, recommending mitigation measures, and coordinating with transportation agencies. Prepare and review planning policies, zoning ordinances, design guidelines, and permit conditions; recommend revisions to improve clarity, consistency, and implementability. Manage planning projects from intake through approval, including timelines, deliverables, consultant oversight, and interagency coordination. Coordinate with state and federal agencies and resource agencies (e.g., Army Corps of Engineers, RWQCB) on permits, permits conditions, and compliance requirements.

Qualifications: Bachelors degree in Urban Planning, Environmental Planning, Geography, Civil Engineering, or related field; Masters degree or AICP certification preferred. Demonstrated working knowledge of local and regional zoning regulations and municipal codes. Proficient with Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for mapping, spatial analysis, and data management. Experience preparing or managing CEQA and NEPA documents and familiarity with environmental compliance processes. Strong written and verbal communication skills, including experience preparing staff reports, presentations, and public outreach materials. Experience conducting site analyses, land use evaluations, and reviewing technical studies (e.g., traffic, biological, hydrology).Ability to manage multiple projects, meet deadlines, and coordinate with consultants, applicants, and regulatory agencies. Familiarity or experience with Environmental Impact Assessment, Land Use Planning, Transportation Planning, Community Engagement, Policy Development, and Project Management (nice to have).Experience working with or coordinating permits with Army Corps of Engineers and Regional Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB) is desirable. Valid drivers license and ability to attend field visits and public meetings; willingness to work occasional evenings for public hearings.