Principal Planner

About the position

The Principal Planner position is responsible for supervising professional staff in updating and amending land use and environmental plans, policies, and regulations. This role involves managing complex planning initiatives, providing direction to consultants, and preparing reports and presentations for various community and governmental meetings.

Responsibilities

• Supervise the work of professional staff responsible for land use and environmental planning.
• Manage long-term, complex planning initiatives.
• Review and provide direction to consultants on draft policies and planning documents.
• Prepare and present staff reports and recommendations at community meetings and city council sessions.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree or equivalent education (120 semester/180 quarter units).
• Four years of full-time professional-level planning experience in areas such as environmental review, zoning administration, or urban design.

Nice-to-haves

• Lead/Supervisory Experience.
• Experience in historic preservation.
• Experience developing environmental conservation plans.
• Experience supporting equitable public engagement in planning initiatives.
• CEQA or NEPA compliance experience.
• Experience developing park and public space plans.
• Certified Planner Certification (AICP).
• Membership in the American Society of Landscape Architects.

Benefits

• General wage increases scheduled for 2025.
• Automatic enrollment in the San Diego City Employees Retirement System for eligible employees.