Project Manager, Public Works-Project Planning-26370602PP

Future Salary Increases

** June 2026 – 4.49% increase to base pay (3.0% Across-the-Board + 1.49% Market Adjustment)

** June 2027 – 4.49% increase to base pay (3.0% Across-the- Board + 1.49% Market Adjustment)

The County of San Diego is currentlyseeking a passionate and forward-thinking professional for the Project Manager, Public Works-Planning & Development Services role in the Project Planning Division. This is your chance to make a real impact on the future of our communities—managing complex discretionary projects, reviewing in-depth planning and environmental studies, effectively engaging with stakeholders and shaping recommendations that guide the region’s development and conservation.

This position will lead internal teams responsible for managing Planning & Development Service’s most complex and controversial private development projects, supervising staff as well as consultants, and guiding the review of complex California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) documents. In addition, this position will play a key role in reviewing private and public discretionary projects, providing guidance in close coordination with County legal counsel, and managing the CEQA-related aspects of these private development projects.

The Department

Planning & Development Services (PDS) proudly undertakes the vital role of supporting the long-term health and sustainability of 29 unincorporated communities, home to over 500,000 individuals, nestled within the expanse of San Diego County. PDS is a fast-paced planning department with a vast array of project types in settings ranging from suburban to rural. PDS consists of nine divisions: Building Services, Code Compliance, Land Development, Long Range Planning, Housing, Project Planning, Support Services, Sustainability and the Policy, Outreach and Data division.

See additional information onPlanning & Development Services.

Ideal Candidate Profile

The ideal candidate for this position is a detailed and solution-oriented individual who provides excellent customer service, has the ability to work collaboratively with stakeholders, is a strategic thinker and problem solver, and an individual who is attentive to timelines and competing priorities. The ideal candidate would also have the ability to communicate effectively in verbal and written form and have professional level experience managing complex discretionary projects involving several functional groups.

Work Location

The selected candidate may be assigned a hybrid schedule consisting of teleworking or working remotely and working at the County Operations Center in Kearny Mesa.

The timeline for this recruitment is outlined below.

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.

1. A bachelor's degree from an accredited U.S. college or university, or a certified foreign studies equivalency in engineering, land surveying, business administration, public administration, environmental science, urban planning, or closely related field, AND, five (5) years of project management experience in public administration, business administration, engineering, or related experience in a public works, planning, or land development setting; OR;
2. Any combination of education and experience described above which equals nine (9) years.

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 the Military Skills Translator to access the tool.