Associate Planner-25350809

About the Role The County of San Diego Planning and Development Services is seeking dynamic professionals to join as Associate Planners. This role involves conducting cutting-edge planning and environmental studies, developing goals and policy recommendations, and managing moderately complex projects with public controversy to support the long-term health and sustainability of 29 unincorporated communities. Key Responsibilities - Conduct planning and environmental studies, including major use permits, variances, and environmental impact reports. - Make recommendations for rezones, Countywide policy and ordinance changes, and General Plan updates. - Review privately initiated discretionary projects for compliance with Federal, State, and Local ordinances. - Manage new development projects, including affordable and market housing, renewable energy, and commercial projects. - Maintain long-range land use documents, develop programs, and formulate policies in accordance with regulations. - Engage with the public, stakeholders, and consultants, and present to appointed and elected officials. Minimum Qualifications - Education and Experience Option 1: Bachelor's degree in city/regional planning, urban planning, landscape architecture, geography, biology, geology, ecology, zoology, environmental science, or related field, AND two years of progressively responsible professional experience in environmental analysis, planning, and research. - Education and Experience Option 2: Master's degree in one of the fields listed above, AND one year of progressively responsible professional experience. - Experience Option 3: One year of experience as an Assistant Planner with the County of San Diego. - Note: Professional level land use or environmental planning experience may substitute for education on a year-for-year basis for up to two years. Special Requirements - Ideal Experience: Updating General and Community Plans, implementing Climate Action Plans, and preparing CEQA/NEPA documents. - Skills: Strong analytical, facilitation, public engagement, and presentation skills. Ability to prepare graphic displays. - Work Location: County Operations Center in Kearny Mesa, a modern LEED Certified complex with an employee gym. - Work Schedule: Hybrid schedule consisting of teleworking and working at the County Operations Center. - Disaster Service: Public employees are designated as disaster service workers and must participate in assigned disaster activities. Selection Process 1. Blind Applicant Screening: Personally identifiable information is removed to ensure a fair and equitable process. 2. Automated Evaluation: Supplemental questionnaire and application are reviewed using an automated system. 3. Individual Review: Applications are reviewed individually to confirm accuracy and qualifying information. 4. Interviews: Conducted on an ongoing basis for the most highly qualified candidates. 5. Background and Medical: Successful candidates undergo a background check, fingerprinting, and a pre-employment medical screening. How to Apply - Submit a complete online application through the County of San Diego careers portal. - Ensure all experience meeting minimum requirements is detailed in both the Work Experience section and the Supplemental Questionnaire. - Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of the application Work History or supplemental questionnaire. - If referred by a current County employee, indicate their name on the application for the Employee Referral Reward Program. Employment Details - Department: Planning and Development Services, with potential future vacancies in Public Works and Parks and Recreation. - Position Type: Full-Time - Work Schedule: Hybrid schedule available. - Equal Opportunity: The County of San Diego is committed to valuing diversity, practicing inclusion, and offers preferential credits for military service through the Veteran's Preference Policy.