Job Abstract

Under the general supervision of the Community Development Director and the direct supervision of the Planning Manager, the Senior Planner performs a variety of analysis and presentation of long and short range planning matters including zoning administration, general plan amendments, , etc. The Senior Planner works extensively with large-scale development proposals for residential, commercial and industrial projects. The position may also assists in overseeing the work of junior planners and provides guidance and mentorship.

1. Compiles information for the General Plan and various elements of the General Plan.
2. Reviews plans, studies, and other data presented by developers to determine conformance with the General Plan and Zoning Ordinance.
3. May represent the City at various meetings and serve as a liaison on City committees including presentations to the Planning Commission and City Council.
4. Collects data and prepares current and advance planning studies with recommendations based on sound planning principles and practices.
5. Receives applications and supporting data from the public requiring Planning Commission or Community Development Director approval.
6. Makes field investigations, statistical surveys of areas involving planning and zoning matters.
7. Provides professional guidance to the Assistant and Associate Planners, Community Preservation Officers and other members of staff.
8. Administers CEQA compliance and other consultant contracts including preparation of Requests for Proposals, cost accounting, and supervising and directing consultant work.
9. Assists with development and implementation of Planning Division administrative and operational procedures.

1. Thorough knowledge of current planning practices, principles and trends.
2. Demonstrated ability to read plans and maps, interpret zoning ordinances, general plan codes, state and Federal laws and follow established policies.
3. Skills necessary to effectively assemble and organize material in a logical manner including conclusions/recommendations for written and oral presentations.
4. Skills necessary to deal tactfully with public and others contacted in performance of duties with a solutions-oriented approach.
5. Demonstrated ability to successfully manage complex land use entitlement applications through the planning review/approval process.
6. Possesses some knowledge of State Housing and subdivision laws.
7. Working knowledge of residential and commercial design review practices and architectural styles and trends.

Minimum Qualifications

Graduation from an accredited college or university with a degree in Urban Planning, Public Administration, Geography, Economics or a related field and four years experience in Urban Planning; or any equivalent combination of education and experience. A Master’s Degree in Urban Planning, Public Administration or a related field is desirable. AICP certification is also desirable.

License Requirements

Valid State of California Driver's License

Physical Requirements

Work is performed in an office environment utilizing modern office equipment and technology and may require sitting for prolonged periods of time using a computer. The incumbent stands, walks, and may twist, reach, bend, crouch and kneel. An incumbent must be able to meet the requirements of the classification and have mobility, vision, hearing and dexterity levels appropriate to the duties to be performed. This position has exposure to vibrations from a computer and other office equipment; computer glare.

Exempt/Non-Exempt

This is an exempt position. No overtime is paid for hours worked in excess of 40 hours per week.

Background Check/ Physical Exam

Individuals selected for employment will be required to take and pass a background check (fingerprinting) for all positions and medical exam for full time and permanent part time positions. The background check and medical examination are at City expense; and conducted by a law enforcement agency and physician designated by the City. Candidates who are currently working are urged not to resign until they have successfully passed the background check, physical examination and received a final offer letter.

Equal Opportunity Employer

The City of Yorba Linda does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, or disability in employment. Any qualified individual with a disability must provide reasonable notice to the Human Resources Department prior to the final date of an examination. In compliance with the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986, all new employees hired by the City must verify identity and entitlement to work in the United States by providing required documentation.

Disaster Service Worker

In accordance with Government Code Section 3100, City of Yorba Linda Employees, in the event of a disaster, are considered disaster service workers and may be asked to respond accordingly.