Senior Planner

City of Lafayette; Lafayette (CA); Hybrid; USD 112,000 - 157,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work schedule

Job summary

City of Lafayette is seeking a Senior Planner to guide growth while preserving the city’s charm. With six+ years in planning and environmental review, you will advise on zoning, land use, and development codes and mentor staff.

The role requires a four-year degree in urban planning or related field, with a master’s preferred. Evening meetings with City Council are expected; hybrid work options may be possible.

Qualifications

• Six+ years of planning and environmental review experience.
• Strong written and public speaking skills.
• Ability to supervise and mentor staff.
• Evening hours required for City Council meetings.

Responsibilities

• Manage complex development proposals aligned 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 junior planners to support their professional growth.
• Engage with the community and local government to drive innovative solutions.

Skills

Planning experience

Environmental review

Detail-oriented

Communication skills

Public speaking

Leadership / mentoring

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. This position is open until filled. To be considered for the first round of first-stage interviews scheduled for November 20, applications must be received by November 9.Additional first-stage interview dates may be scheduled depending on the applicant pool; however, candidates are encouraged to apply early for best consideration.

Please note: Cover Letter is required.

What You’ll Do

As Senior 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 $112,177-$156,824 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.