Assistant Planner

Assistant Planner INTERVIEWS WILL TAKE PLACE THE WEEK OF JUNE 15, 2026. JOB OFFERS WILL BE MADE THE WEEK OF JUNE 22, 2026. Future Salary Increases June 2026 – 5% increase to base pay (3.5% Across‑Board + 1.50% Market Adjustment) June 2027 – 4.5% increase to base pay (3.0% Across‑Board + 1.50% Market Adjustment) Are you passionate about urban and rural planning and looking for an exciting opportunity to join a dynamic team? The County of San Diego is actively seeking enthusiastic and dedicated individuals to join their team as Assistant Planners. The eligible list will be used to fill current vacancies in the Sustainability and Project Planning divisions within Planning & Development Services. This list may also be used to fill future vacancies in other divisions and departments within the Land Use Environment Group (LUEG). 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 enhances the quality of communities and ensures the health and safety of residents by protecting natural resources and implementing the General Plan, Climate Action Plan, Multiple Species Conservation Plan and land development ordinances in the unincorporated region. PDS consists of eight divisions: Building Services, Code Compliance, Land Development, Long Range Planning, Project Planning, Support Services, Sustainability and the Policy, Outreach and Data division. The mission is to balance community, economic, and environmental interests to ensure the highest quality of life for the public. The Position Assistant Planner (official job title) Land Use/Environmental Planner I is the first working level class in the professional Planner series. The assistant planner will conduct comprehensive planning and environmental studies, research, and data analysis. The role objectives are to develop strategic goals while providing project and policy recommendations for decision‑making bodies. The assistant planner provides support across various projects, including leading projects generally with a low to moderate degree of public interest and community engagement. Key responsibilities include issuing administrative permits, reviewing minor use permits, variances, boundary adjustments or tentative parcel maps, developing and implementing sustainability programs, and recommending policy and ordinance changes. Proficiency in computer equipment and software applications pertinent to the assigned tasks is essential. Work Location PDS is located in the recently constructed and LEED Certified County Operations Center, a modern 44‑acre complex in Kearny Mesa. The facility accommodates 19 departments including an employee gym/workout center. Work Schedule Hybrid schedule consisting of teleworking and working at the County Operations Center. 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 a team Ability to manage several priorities at a time Professional level experience as a planner High degree of motivation and willingness to learn Professional perspective, objective demeanor, and flexibility Hiring Process and Timeline Link and process details are typically described here, but the essential steps are: 1) job offers and background process; 2) pre‑employment medical screening; 3) anticipated start date. Minimum Qualifications 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, archaeology, biology (wildlife/botany), geology, or a related life and physical science. One (1) year of progressively responsible professional level experience performing environmental analysis, planning, research, data analysis, computations, and preparing and presenting reports and graphics related to land use/environmental planning. Experience must be at the level equivalent to a Junior Land Use/Environmental Planner within the County of San Diego; or A master’s degree from an accredited U.S. college or university, or a certified foreign studies equivalency, in one of the fields listed above. No experience required; or One (1) year of experience as a Junior Land Use/Environmental Planner 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, for up to two (2) years of the education requirement. Blind Applicant Screening Personal identifying information is removed from all new recruitments to promote fair and equitable selection. Conditions of Employment Background check, fingerprinting, and pre‑employment medical screening are required prior to employment. Current County employees may be exempt from the initial screening. Evaluation Qualified applicants will be placed on a six‑month employment list based on evaluation scores. Accommodation Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions. #J-18808-Ljbffr County of San Diego