Principal Planner

DEFINITION

Under direct or general supervision, the Principal Planner handles complex activities, projects, and programs within the Community Development Department.

The ideal Principal Planner is an experienced, forward-thinking planning professional who brings deep technical knowledge, strong leadership capacity, and a collaborative, service-oriented approach to shaping a re‑building and growing community. Skilled at managing both current and advanced planning functions and thrives in an environment where innovation, problem‑solving, and cross‑department coordination are essential.

The ideal candidate possesses a strong foundation in urban planning principles, land‑use policy, CEQA compliance, and project management. Must have demonstrated success developing and implementing planning policies, reviewing complex development applications, and leading the preparation of environmental documents, including Environmental Impact Reports. Must be comfortable navigating both the technical and political dimensions of planning. Significant experience with General Plans, Local Coastal Programs, zoning ordinances, and other regulatory tools a must.

Background should include managing residential and commercial projects review of hillside and beachfront development projects, experience planning in environmentally sensitive areas, acting as a technical resource for planning staff, and supporting the Community Development Director and Assistant Community Development Director in executing statutory and departmental responsibilities.

This individual is a strong and confident decision‑maker who exercises a high level of independent judgment. Adept at balancing competing priorities, managing sensitive or high‑profile projects, and ensuring consistency with city, state, and federal policies and regulations. With experience supervising or guiding staff, must demonstrate an ability to mentor, delegate, and elevate the performance of others. The ideal candidate brings a proactive approach—anticipating issues, identifying solutions, and recommending procedural and operational improvements to strengthen the City’s community development operations.

The ideal Principal Planner is a clear communicator who excels at presenting complex planning projects and concepts to diverse audiences, including elected officials, commissions, community groups, developers, and regional partners. Comfortable in preparing high‑quality staff reports, present confidently at public meetings, and serve as an effective liaison to the Planning Commission and advisory bodies. Must have strong ability to build positive relationships with residents, colleagues, and partner agencies and skilled at facilitating constructive dialogue and resolving planning‑related issues.

Overall approach must reflect diplomacy, responsiveness, collaboration, and a commitment to public service.

• Works with the Community Development Director to develop and implement policies and regulations relating to land use, including the City’s General Plan and Local Coastal Plan, specific plans, zoning annexations and other pertinent ordinances and policies.
• Manages applications and permit review on residential and commercial projects.
• Assists Community Development Director with tasks assigned to the Director in the Municipal Code and LCP, including conducting hearings in the Planning Manager’s absence.
• Manages preparation of environmental impact reports.
• Coordinates compliance with CEQA for complex City activities/projects.
• Assists the Community Development Director with activities of the planning department.
• With the Community Development Director, develops, recommends and implements technical and operational procedures and systems to improve efficiency in the City’s planning operations.
• Acts as back‑up liaison to the City’s Planning Commission.
• Assists Community Development Director with preparation and presentation of staff reports for the City Council, commissions, committees and City Advisory group agendas.
• Assists Community Development Director with interpretations of applicable planning…