Senior Planner

Confidential; Citrus Heights (CA); On-site; USD 82,656 - 89,544; Full time

Job summary

A planning and development firm is looking for a Senior Planner for a full-time, in-person role in the Greater Sacramento area. This position involves leading complex planning projects, managing land use applications, and supervising staff. Ideal candidates will have 5–7 years of experience in urban planning, proficiency in project management, and strong communication skills. Compensation for this contracted role ranges from $60 to $65 per hour, depending on experience, offering the chance to make a significant impact on the community's future.

Qualifications

• 5–7 years of experience in land use or urban planning.
• Minimum 2 years in a supervisory role.
• Familiarity with CEQA and land-use law.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage complex planning projects.
• Prepare land use applications and permits.
• Supervise and mentor staff.

Skills

Planning

Project Management

Communication Skills

Data Analysis

Leadership

Customer Service

Education

Bachelor's degree in Urban Planning or related field

Master's degree

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

Senior Planner – 6-Month Temp-to-Perm Opportunity (Sacramento Area)

MGT is hiring a Senior Planner for a full-time, in-person role based in the Greater Sacramento area. This is a 6-month temporary-to-permanent opportunity, perfect for someone who enjoys strategic thinking and has experience in planning, project management, and working with diverse stakeholders. In this role, you’ll help lead meaningful planning initiatives that support long-term community and organizational goals.

Our client’s Community Development and Planning Department is looking for a forward-thinking leader to help shape sustainable, resource-efficient urban infrastructure. You’ll play a key role in evaluating land use and population trends through surveys, fieldwork, and research. This position reports directly to the Administrator and offers the chance to make a lasting impact on the future of the community.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage complex planning projects, including long-range and current planning initiatives, from conceptual planning through construction. Includes developing and maintaining project schedules and budgets.
• Prepare and coordinate land use applications and other jurisdictional development permits and surveys through appropriate public and private agencies and organizations. Act as liaison to public entities, associations, and neighborhood groups and between program staff and executive leadership to ensure alignment with local and regional planning goals.
• Maintain accurate, up-to-date files, records, budgets, schedules, and maps of multiple projects.
• Assist in the development, administration, and evaluation of departmental policies, procedures, and programs.
• Gather, prepare, and analyze data and background material and examine project reports, feasibility and environmental studies, and assist in site assessments.
• Plan, organize, and prepare project reports, letters, presentations, maps, graphics, findings, specifications, schedules, drawings, and cost estimates for applicable boards, councils, committees, planning commissions, and community groups.
• Supervise and mentor assigned staff, providing guidance, training, and performance evaluations.
• Identify grant opportunities applicable to existing and upcoming projects—in full or in part—and prepare and submit grant applications and required reporting.
• Review and evaluate development proposals and site plans for compliance with applicable regulations, policies, and community objectives.
• Provide public and stakeholder outreach on project-related activities.
• Monitor and interpret state and federal legislation affecting planning policies and procedures.
• Support the Administrator and other senior leadership with strategic planning, policy development, and special projects.

Education

• A bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in urban planning, public administration, geography, environmental studies, or a related field. A master’s degree is preferred and may substitute for some experience.

Experience

• 5–7 years of progressively responsible experience in land use, urban or regional planning and development, including at least 2 years in a supervisory or lead role.
• Experience in both current and long-range planning is highly desirable.
• Familiarity with California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), land‑use law, and zoning regulations.

Technical Skills

• Strong knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite and project management.
• Ability to read and interpret maps, legal property descriptions, and apply applicable planning policies, codes, and regulations.
• Ability to compile, analyze, and evaluate statistical, environmental, and economic complex and difficult information.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Proven ability to lead teams, manage projects, and collaborate with diverse stakeholders including city officials, developers, and the public.
• Working knowledge of municipal land-use planning.
• Demonstrated customer service skills.

Compensation and Application Process

Apply online with your resume and cover letter at GovHRjobs.com. The pay for this contracted position is $60‑65 per hour, depending on experience. Positions will remain open until they are filled. If you have any questions, please contact Vivian Torres at [e-mail].