Job Title: Principal Planner

SUMMARY:

This position is a lead Supervisor, non-mid-management-level position committed to seeking innovative solutions, fostering cross-department partnerships and modeling an inclusive and supportive environment. The position performs a variety of management and complex planning functions which may include the supervision of either the Current or Long-Range Planning sections of the Planning Division and/or as a cross department co-lead for special projects related to permit services improvement programs. Supervises subordinate members of the Planning Division.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following. This list is meant to be representative, not exhaustive. Some incumbents may not perform all the duties listed while in other cases related duties may also be assigned.

• Plans, organizes, and directs the overall work activities of the long-range planning, current planning, and/or permit service programs.
• Reviews and evaluates the job performance of subordinate personnel, identifies professional development needs, and provides training as needed.
• Oversees the review and analysis of development proposals or planning studies, including participation in more complex and major projects.
• Interprets, implements, and enforces the General Plan, zoning codes, and other codes related to the maintenance of community standards.
• Make presentations on planning background recommendations before the Design Review Board, Planning Commission, City Council, community groups and organizations.
• Works with other City departments and governmental jurisdictions in coordinating the division's programs and projects.
• Conducts research and analysis of land use and related issues. Prepares environmental review documents. Prepares written reports.
• Supervises a professional and clerical planning staff.
• Solicit, select, contract with and manage consulting contracts.
• Produces and/or Coordinates public events, committee meetings, and community workshops.
• Assists the Director with budget preparation and manages the section’s budget.
• Assigns new project applications, monitors/manages workload, creates procedures and guidelines to improve permitting process.
• Serves as lead advisor to the Planning Commission. Coordinates the agenda for Planning Commission meetings.
• Performs related duties as required.

KNOWLEDGE OF:

• Principles, methods and practices of urban planning and zoning administration
• California Planning Law, Environmental Quality Act and Subdivision Map Act
• Principles and practices of effective organizations
• Principles of supervision/and emerging trends in effective supervision
• Current and Long-Range Planning.