Orinda is a charming place to live, work, and play! The City of Orinda is seeking an experienced, collaborative, and solutions-oriented planning professional to serve as our next Senior Planner . This is an exciting opportunity to join a small, high-performing Planning team committed to thoughtful growth, community character, and high-quality service. As a key member of the Planning Department's management team, the Senior Planner plays a vital role in both current and long-range planning efforts, helping shape the future of Orinda while preserving its unique semi-rural residential character and vibrant downtown village. About the Role The Senior Planner works under the direction of the Planning Director and serves as a key member of the City's Planning Department. This role leads and manages complex projects related to land use, zoning, housing, and development review. The ideal candidate is a self-directed, collaborative professional who takes ownership of their work and is committed to delivering high-quality, customer-focused service. They are adaptable, forward-thinking, and effective in a dynamic public sector environment. This position requires strong technical expertise, sound judgment, and the ability to manage multiple priorities while working closely with staff, stakeholders, and the community. The Senior Planner also provides technical and functional supervision to assigned staff, ensuring high-quality, compliant, and efficient planning work. Key Responsibilities Lead and manage complex planning projects, including development applications, policy initiatives, and long-range planning efforts. Review and analyze site plans, architectural designs, and development proposals for compliance with applicable regulations and community standards. Prepare and present detailed reports, recommendations, and staff analyses to decision-making bodies, including Planning Commission and City Council. Coordinate with internal departments, external agencies, consultants, and community stakeholders. Oversee environmental review processes in compliance with CEQA and other applicable regulations. Develop and implement procedures to improve efficiency and effectiveness of planning programs. Provide mentorship, guidance, and supervision to assigned staff.

Key Projects:

For a complete list of duties, please refer to the job description by visiting the provided link. Implementation of the City's Housing Element and related programs. Comprehensive General Plan updates and Zoning Code amendments. Advancement of downtown initiatives aligned with Plan Orinda and ConnectOrinda. Support and administration of regional grant programs, including those from

MTC-ABAG.

Minimum Requirements:

The following qualifications are considered acceptable for meeting the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities:

Experience:

Six (6) years of progressively responsible professional planning experience, including both current and long-range planning.

Education:

A bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in urban planning or a related field. A master's degree and public sector experience is desirable.

License or Certificate:

Possession of, or the ability to obtain, a California driver's license with a satisfactory driving record. American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) certification is highly preferred.

Special Requirements:

Ability to work in a standard office environment and operate typical office equipment. Ability to travel to various locations for site inspections of City developments and code compliance issues, and to operate a motor vehicle. Attendance at meetings is required, both during regular work hours and in the evening.

APPLICATION AND SELECTION PROCESS

To be considered, applicants must submit the following through CalOpps.org by the final filing date: Completed online application Resume Cover letter describing interest and qualifications Applications will be screened based on qualifications. A limited number of the most qualified candidates will be invited to participate in a selection process, which may include a practical exercise and oral panel interview. The selected candidate will be required to successfully complete a pre-employment process, which will include a background and conviction history check, as well as a medical examination and drug screening. Equal Opportunity Employer The City of Orinda is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Individuals requiring accommodation in any phase of the recruitment process should request assistance at the time of application.

Job Description URL:

https://www.cityoforinda.gov/DocumentCenter/View/403/Senior-Planner-PDF Ideal Candidate The ideal candidate is a self-directed and collaborative leader who takes ownership of their work and is committed to delivering high-quality, customer-focused service. They are adaptable, forward-thinking, and thrive in a dynamic public sector environment.

The successful candidate will demonstrate:

Strong knowledge of the principles and practices of governmental planning and zoning in land use, design review, long-range planning and CEQA guidelines. Effective leadership and supervisory skills, with the ability to mentor and support staff. Excellent organization, time management, and problem-solving abilities. A strong commitment to responsive and professional customer service. Clear and effective written and verbal communication skills, including public presentations and staff reports. The ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously. Experience working with public agencies and collaborating with boards, commissions, and elected officials.