Project Manager - Planning

Dahlin Group Architecture Planning; Pleasanton (CA); Hybrid; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision coverage

Employee Stock Ownership Plan

401(k)

Job summary

Dahlin Group Architecture Planning is seeking a Project Manager in Pleasanton, CA to lead and deliver a variety of planning projects. The hybrid role involves collaboration with clients and jurisdictions, ensuring effective communication and successful project outcomes.

The ideal candidate will have at least 5 years of relevant experience, a Bachelor’s degree in Urban Design, Planning, or Architecture, and strong project management skills. Competitive salary range: $90,000 to $120,000, plus benefits.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in urban design, planning, or architecture.
• Demonstrated experience leading planning and entitlement projects.
• Knowledge of U.S. building codes and permitting processes.

Responsibilities

• Lead planning efforts and author policy documents.
• Prepare and negotiate proposals, fees, and contracts.
• Build and maintain strong client relationships.

Skills

Client management

Project management

Urban design

Leadership

Regulatory coordination

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Urban Design, Planning, or Architecture

Job description

At DAHLIN, we believe great design starts with thoughtful planning. We are seeking a Project Manager to join our Planning & Entitlement Team to lead and deliver a wide range of projects from early planning and front-end design through schematic design and entitlement. This role serves as the primary liaison between clients, jurisdictions, and subconsultants, ensuring clear communication, strong collaboration, and successful project outcomes. The hybrid role requires at least three days per week onsite in our Pleasanton, CA office.

Responsibilities

• Lead planning efforts and author policy documents, including specific plans, design guidelines, and objective design standards.
• Lead project planning and execution by managing scope, schedule, staffing, budgets, work plans, deliverables, and team performance to ensure successful project outcomes.
• Prepare and negotiate proposals, fees, schedules, and contracts for clients and consultants.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for clients, ensuring timely communication and effective resolution of issues.
• Build and maintain strong client relationships while staying informed of client goals, market conditions, and industry trends.
• Schedule, facilitate, and document project meetings with clients, internal teams, consultants, and agency representatives.
• Coordinate multidisciplinary project teams to maintain quality standards and meet budget and schedule objectives.
• Manage project documentation and consultant coordination throughout planning, entitlement, and early design phases.
• Identify and resolve project challenges in collaboration with Principals, planning staff, and design teams.
• Support business development efforts with current and prospective clients.
• Contribute to project reporting, resource planning, and staffing discussions to support team performance and financial goals.
• Foster a positive team environment by supporting staff development, training, and mentoring.
• Oversee project setup, including contracts, project processes, and coordination with accounting for invoicing.
• Ensure a seamless transition of projects into design development and construction documentation phases.
• Conduct post-project follow-ups to assess client satisfaction and identify future opportunities.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated experience leading planning, entitlement, urban design, or architectural projects, including client management and consultant coordination.
• Bachelor’s degree or higher in Urban Design, Planning, or Architecture.
• 5+ years of experience in urban design, planning and/or architecture, including project management and leadership responsibilities.
• Demonstrated knowledge of U.S. building codes, permitting processes, and construction practices.
• Experience coordinating with U.S.-based clients, consultants, and regulatory agencies.
• AICP or architectural licensure preferred.
• Commitment to ongoing professional development.
• Must be legally authorized to work for any employer in the United States without any restrictions. Visa sponsorship is not offered for this position.

Benefits and Compensation

We offer a competitive compensation package based on experience and qualifications. Annual salary range: $90,000 to $120,000 depending on qualifications. Benefits include medical, dental, and vision coverage; a pre-tax Flexible Spending Plan; Employee Stock Ownership Plan; and 401(k).

As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we are committed to welcoming and supporting a diverse community of professionals. As such, women and people of color are especially encouraged to apply. Our firm participates in E-Verify.