Assistant Planner-26350704

Future Salary Increases

** June 2026 – 5% increase to base pay (3.5% Across-the-Board + 1.50% Market Adjustment)

** June 2027 – 4.5% increase to base pay (3.0% Across-the- Board + 1.50% Market Adjustment)

Assistant Planner, official job titleLand Use/Environmental Planner I,is the first working level class in the professional Planner series. The Assistant Planner will be assigned to PDS and will focus on conducting comprehensive planning and environmental studies, research, and data analysis. This position will operate with the objective to develop strategic goals while providing project and policy recommendations for consideration by decision-making bodies. The Assistant Planner will also provide support across various projects, including leading projects generally with a low to moderate degree of public interest and community engagement. The role will require the ability to independently process tasks with relatively low complexity such as issuing administrative permits, reviewing minor use permits, variances, boundary adjustments or tentative parcel maps, develop and implement sustainability programs, and recommending policy and ordinance changes. Key responsibilities include collecting, analyzing, and interpreting data related to planning, zoning, environmental policies, sustainability program implementation and legislation. Proficiency in operating computer equipment and software applications pertinent to the assigned tasks is essential. A strong desire to grow and contribute while cultivating effective working relationships with co-workers and diverse stakeholders will promote success in this role.

Please read theAssistant Planner(Official Job Class Title: Land Use/Environmental Planner I)job description for more information.

Work Location

PDS is located within the recently constructed and LEED Certified County Operations Center, a modern 44-acre complex in the Kearny Mesa area of San Diego. This state-of-the-art facility encompasses 18 structures and houses 19 departments, including an employee gym/workout center. Kearny Mesa is a located centrally with easy access from the 163 and 805 freeways, along a vibrant corridor with a variety of commercial services in walking distance.

Work Schedule

The selected candidate(s) for PDS may be assigned a hybrid schedule consisting of teleworking and working at the County Operations Center in Kearny Mesa.

Ideal Candidate Profile

• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Good presentation skills
• Strong analytical skills and solution-oriented approach
• Active listener
• Ability to work independently and as part of team
• Ability to manage several priorities at a time
• Demonstrate professional level experience as a planner
• Demonstrate a high degree of motivation and willingness to learn
• Maintain a professional perspective, objective demeanor, and flexibility
  

i. Job Offer and Background Process begins: Shortly after the interviews. Note: Current County employees may be excluded from additional background screening.
ii. Pre-employment Medical Screening: Approximately 3 days following successful background investigation results.
iii. Anticipated Start Date: Start date will be based upon successful completion of medical screening or other 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

1. A bachelor's degree from an accredited U.S. college or university, or a certified foreign studies equivalency, in city and regional planning, urban planning, landscape architecture, architecture, geography, archeology, biology with a concentration in wildlife and/or botany; geology; or any one of the following life and physical sciences, geography with a concentration in conservation of environmental quality, natural resources or physical geography, ecology; zoology; engineering with an emphasis in acoustics or environmental management, environmental science or a related field, AND one (1) year of progressively responsible professional level experience performing environmental analysis, planning, research, data analysis, computations, and preparing and presenting reports and graphics as it relates to land use/environmental planning. Experience must have been at the level equivalent to a Junior Land Use/Environmental Planner within the County of San Diego; OR,
2. A master's degreefrom an accredited U.S. college or university, or a certified foreign studies equivalency,in one of the fields stated above. No experience required; OR,
3. One (1) year of experience as a Junior Land Use/Environmental Planner with the County of San Diego.

Conditions of Employment

As part of the County of San Diego’s pre-employment process, prospective candidates will undergo a background check (including fingerprinting) and a pre-employment medical screening prior to beginning County employment. Additional types of background investigations may be conducted based on the job-related activities of the position. Current County employees may be excluded from this process.

Evaluation

The County of San Diego offers preferential credits for military service to assist qualified applicants in transitioning from military to civilian careers with the County of San Diego. Please read the Veteran's Preference Policy for additional information.

Military Skills Translator

Do you need assistance translating your military experience into civilian experience? This tool can help! Please read theMilitary Skills Translatorto access the tool.

Strategic Plan

The County of San Diego and its employees embrace the vision of: a just, sustainable, and resilient future for all. Our values include: integrity, equity, access, belonging, excellence, and sustainability. Each of which are infused throughout our operations. While also embracing a mission of strengthening our communities with innovative, inclusive, and data driven services through a skilled and supported workforce. Click here for more information on our Strategic Plan (sandiegocounty.gov)