Senior Planner

Lafayette, City of CA; Lafayette (CA); Hybrid; USD 109,000 - 153,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible work options (4/10, 9/80, and

Hybrid work schedule

Job summary

City of Lafayette is seeking a Senior Planner to join our Planning Department to guide growth while preserving our small-town character. The role focuses on managing development proposals, environmental reviews, and advising on zoning and land use.

Candidates should have at least six years of planning experience, a four-year degree in urban planning or related field (master's preferred), strong communication and leadership skills, and willingness to work some evenings.

Qualifications

• 6+ years of relevant planning experience.
• Detail-oriented and analytical approach to zoning and land use.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong leadership and mentoring abilities.
• Energy for community engagement and resident interaction.
• Experience supervising junior staff.

Responsibilities

• Manage complex development proposals and ensure alignment with Lafayette’s vision.
• Conduct environmental impact reviews and guide sustainability efforts.
• Advise architects, builders, and residents on zoning, land use, and development codes.
• Lead long-range planning initiatives to enhance Lafayette’s function and character.
• Supervise and mentor lower-level planners to support professional growth.
• Engage with the community and local government to drive innovative solutions.

Skills

Environmental planning

Zoning knowledge

Public speaking

Leadership

Mentoring

Analytical

Education

Bachelor's degree in urban planning or related field

Master's degree desirable

Job description

We're looking for thoughtful urban planners to join the Planning Department and help us shape Lafayette's future!

Are you excited about shaping communities and making a lasting impact? The City of Lafayette(pop. 24,000) is looking for an experienced Senior Planner to play a key role in maintaining our city's charm while supporting thoughtful growth and development.

Located just 20 minutes from San Francisco via BART, Lafayette offers a vibrant downtown, scenic hillsides, and top-rated schools. Our residents value a small-town atmosphere with personalized service, and we need a dynamic planner to help guide the city's future.

Join a team of dedicated, energetic, and talented professionals in a city that truly values its employees. If you have a passion for urban planning, exceptional analytical skills, and a commitment to community development, we want to hear from you.

Please note: Cover Letter is required.

What You'll Do

AsSenior Planner, you will take on meaningful and impactful projects, including:

• Managing complex development proposals and ensuring projects align with Lafayette’s vision.
• Conducting environmental impact reviews and guiding sustainability efforts.
• Advising architects, builders, and residents on zoning, land use, and development codes.
• Leading long-range planning initiatives to enhance Lafayette’s function and character.
• Supervising and mentoring lower-level planners to support their professional growth and ensure high-quality work.
• Engaging with the community and local government to drive innovative solutions.

What You Bring

We are looking for a high-energy, self-motivated, and creative professional who is:

• Experienced in planning and environmental review– At least six years of relevant experience required.
• Detail-oriented and analytical– You will tackle complex zoning and land use issues with precision.
• An excellent communicator– Strong writing and public speaking skills are essential.
• A natural problem solver– You will provide innovative and customized solutions.
• Energy by community engagement– You enjoy working with residents to shape the future.
• A strong leader– You have experience supervising and mentoring junior staff.

A four-year degree in urban planning, public administration, or a related field is required. A master's degree is highly desirable.

Must be available for some evening hours to attend City Council and Commission meetings.

Compensation & Schedule

• This is an exempt, salaried position with a hiring salary range of $109,441-$152,999 annually DOE and not eligible for overtime.
• This position may require working more than 8 hours and may have occasional evening/night work including availability for some evening hours to attend City Council and Commission meetings.
• Flexible work options are available: 4/10, 9/80, and partial hybrid work schedule may be possible during specific work seasons per supervisor’s approval.

Join Our Team!

This is your chance to be part of a team that's not just planning for tomorrow — but actively building it today. If you're ready to join our Planning team as our next Senior Planner, This position is open until filled.