Associate Planner-Project Planning-25350810PP

ASSOCIATE PLANNER – PROJECT PLANNING Interviews will take place the week of February 9, 2026. Job offers for selected candidates will be made the week of February 23, 2025. Future Salary Increases: June 2026 – 4.37% increase to base pay (3.5% Across-the-Board + .87% Market Adjustment) June 2027 – 3.87% increase to base pay (3% Across-the-Board + .87% Market Adjustment) ***This hard-to-recruit position qualifies for the Employee Referral Reward Program. If a current County of San Diego employee referred you to apply for this position, please indicate the employee’s name on your application. *** Detailed announcement available. (Download PDF reader) The County of San Diego is seeking passionate and forward‑thinking professionals for the Associate Planner, Project Planning role. This is your chance to make a real impact on the future of our communities—leading innovative projects, conducting in‑depth planning and environmental studies, and shaping goals and policy recommendations that guide the region’s growth and sustainability. Planning & Development Services Planning & Development Services (PDS) supports the long‑term health and sustainability of 29 unincorporated communities, home to over 500,000 residents, within San Diego County. PDS handles a variety of project types ranging from mixed‑use, residential, commercial, affordable housing, renewable energy, and more, across suburban to rural settings. PDS consists of nine divisions: Building Services, Code Compliance, Land Development, Long Range Planning, Housing, Project Planning, Support Services, Sustainability, and Policy, Outreach and Data. Project Planning The Project Planning division reviews privately initiated discretionary projects, ensuring compliance with the County General Plan, Zoning Ordinance, California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), and Community plans. It manages all aspects of new development projects, including affordable and market housing, renewable energy projects such as solar and battery storage, and commercial and mixed‑use projects. The division engages with the public, management, stakeholders, and consultants, and presents findings to appointed and elected officials, including the Board of Supervisors. Position and

Key Responsibilities

Performs planning and environmental review of discretionary projects for compliance with the County General Plan, Zoning Ordinance, and CEQA; develops recommendations for adoption by decision‑making bodies. Independently reviews a wide scope of discretionary projects characterized by moderate public controversy and moderate complexity, such as major use permits, tentative maps, variances, and rezones. 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, including experience managing discretionary projects involving multiple functional groups. Strong willingness to continually learn and grow professionally. Professional perspective and objective demeanor in positive or difficult situations. Good interpersonal and teamwork skills, building relationships and collaborating with internal and external stakeholders to keep projects moving positively. Strong analytical skills and a solution‑oriented approach to land use and environmental planning issues. If you believe you possess these qualities, PDS offers a first‑class opportunity for career growth. PDS values collaboration and teamwork. Shape the future—seize it now. Work Location PDS is located in the recently constructed LEED‑Certified County Operations Center, a modern 44‑acre complex in Kearny Mesa, San Diego. The facility houses 18 structures and 19 departments, including an employee gym and fitness center. It sits centrally with easy access from the 163 and 805 freeways, along a vibrant corridor with various commercial services within walking distance. Work Schedule The selected candidate(s) may be assigned a hybrid schedule consisting of teleworking and on‑site work at the County Operations Center. Hiring Process and Timeline Job offer and background process begins after the interviews. Current County employees may be excluded from additional background screening. Pre‑employment medical screening: Approximately 3 days following successful background investigation. Anticipated start date: Based on completion of medical screening or mutually agreed upon date. If you are not selected for this interview process, you may have the opportunity to compete for future vacancies.

Minimum Qualifications

A bachelor’s degree from an accredited U. S. college or university (or foreign equivalency) in city and regional planning, urban planning, aviation management, landscape architecture, geography, biology (wildlife or botany), geology, or any of the following life and physical sciences: ecology, zoology, environmental science, or related field, AND two (2) years of progressively responsible professional‑level experience performing environmental analysis, planning, research, data analysis, and producing reports and graphics related to land use/environmental planning. Experience at or equivalent to Assistant Planner (Land Use/Environmental Planner I). A master’s degree from an accredited U. S. college or university (or foreign equivalency) in one of the above fields, AND one (1) year of progressively responsible professional‑level experience as described. One (1) year of experience as an Assistant Planner (Land Use/Environmental Planner I) with the County of San Diego. Professional‑level land use/environmental planning experience in a public or private agency may substitute for education on a year‑for‑year basis, up to two (2) years. Degree must be from a U. S. accredited institution or foreign equivalency must be provided. Do you have more experience and are looking for a senior role? Check out senior planner postings. The Department of Human Resources implements blind applicant screening to protect privacy and ensure equitable selection. Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of the required application sections. Condition of Employment As part of the pre‑employment process, prospective candidates will undergo a background check, including fingerprinting, and a pre‑employment medical screening prior to starting. Current County employees may be excluded. Reasonable accommodation may be made on a case‑by‑case basis. Evaluation Qualified applicants will be placed on a six‑month employment list based on evaluation scores. Complete and accurate information is essential. Successful applicants will then receive individualized review for confirmation. Reasonable accommodation may be provided to qualified individuals with a disability on a case‑by‑case basis. Veteran Support As an employer of over 19,000 employees, the County of San Diego is committed to veteran hiring, retention, and professional development. Veterans receive preferential credits and resources to facilitate transition to civilian careers. The County embraces sustainability and values integrity, equity, access, belonging, excellence, and sustainability. Strategic plans are available online. Under California Government Code Sections 3100‑3109, public employees are designated disaster service workers. Public employees include those employed by state or county, city, state agency, or public district. The County of San Diego is committed to diversity and inclusion because a diverse workforce is our greatest asset. #J-18808-Ljbffr