San Diego County Public Defender’s Office
Senior Planner-Project Planning-25355010PP
San Diego County Public Defender’s Office, San Diego, California, United States, 92189
SENIOR PLANNER - PROJECT PLANNING
Interviews will take place the week of February 9, 2026. Job offers for selected candidates will be made the week of February 23, 2025.
Future Salary Increases
June 2026 – 3.80% increase to base pay (3.5% Across-the-Board + .30% Market Adjustment)
June 2027 – 3.30% increase to base pay (3% Across-the-Board + .30% Market Adjustment)
Referral Program
This hard to recruit position qualifies for the Employee Referral Reward Program. If a current County of San Diego employee referred you to apply for this position, please indicate the employee’s name on your job application in the space provided.
Exceptional Professional Planning Career Opportunity!
Be part of a Progressive and Recognized Land Use/Environmental Program! This is your chance to make a real impact on the future of our communities—managing complex discretionary projects, reviewing in-depth planning and environmental studies, effectively engaging with stakeholders, and shaping recommendations that guide the region’s development and conservation.
The Department - Planning & Development Services Planning & Development Services (PDS) proudly undertakes the vital role of supporting the long‑term health and sustainability of 29 unincorporated communities, home to over 500,000 individuals, nested within San Diego County. PDS is a fast‑paced planning department with a vast array of project types in settings ranging from suburban to rural. Planners working for PDS will touch on projects ranging from mixed‑use, residential, commercial, affordable housing, renewable energy, and more. PDS consists of nine divisions: Building Services, Code Compliance, Land Development, Long‑Range Planning, Housing, Project Planning, Support Services, Sustainability and the Policy, Outreach and Data division.
Project Planning The Project Planning division reviews privately initiated, discretionary projects, specifically the review for compliance and conformance with Federal, State, and Local ordinances and policies including the General Plan, Zoning Ordinance, California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), and Community plans. The division is responsible for managing all aspects of new development projects in the County, including new affordable and market housing, renewable energy projects like solar and battery storage, and commercial and mixed‑use projects. In processing projects, the division engages with the public, management, stakeholders, and consultants and gives presentations to appointed and elected officials, including the Board of Supervisors.
The Position PDS employs Senior Planners who possess extensive expertise and leadership capabilities in overseeing highly advanced, complex, delicate and challenging planning initiatives. Senior Planners may conduct research and prepare plans, reports, studies, and memos on land use, physical, social, and economic issues; and synthesize and present information, reports and other findings to internal and external stakeholders, advisory boards, and elected officials.
Key Responsibilities
Performs planning and environmental review of complex discretionary projects for compliance with the County General Plan, Zoning Ordinance, CEQA and develops recommendations for adoption by decision‑making bodies.
Senior Planners independently review a wide scope of discretionary projects characterized by substantial public controversy and high complexity such as general plan amendments, specific plans, major use permits, and tentative maps.
Provides responsive, high‑quality service to County staff, partner agencies, developers, and the public.
Ideal Candidate Profile
Proven professional level experience as a land use or environmental planner, with experience managing complex discretionary projects involving several functional groups.
A strong willingness to continually learn and grow professionally.
A professional perspective and objective demeanor when positive or difficult situations occur.
The ability to communicate effectively in verbal and written form; strong presentation skills; and be a good listener.
Good interpersonal and teamwork skills, including building relationships and collaborating with internal and external stakeholders to keep projects moving in a positive direction.
Strong analytical skills and a solution‑oriented approach to land use and environmental planning issues.
If you believe that you possess these qualities, then the County of San Diego's Planning & Development Services would be an ideal place for your talents. We have a great culture that values collaboration and teamwork.
Work Location PDS is located within the recently constructed and LEED Certified County Operations Center, a modern 44‑acre complex in the Kearny Mesa area of San Diego. This state‑of‑the‑art facility encompasses 18 structures and houses 19 departments, including an employee gym/workout center. Kearny Mesa is located centrally with easy access from the 163 and 805 freeways, along a vibrant corridor with a variety of commercial services within walking distance.
Work Schedule The selected candidate(s) for PDS may be assigned a hybrid schedule consisting of teleworking and working at the County Operations Center in Kearny Mesa.
Hiring Process and Timeline
Job Offer and Background Process begins after the interviews. Note: Current County employees may be excluded from additional background screening.
Pre‑employment Medical Screening: Approximately 3 days following successful background investigation results.
Anticipated Start Date: Start date will be based upon successful completion of medical screening or other mutually agreed upon date.
Minimum Qualifications 1. A bachelor's degree from an accredited U.S. college or university, or a certified foreign studies equivalency, in city and regional planning, urban planning, aviation management, landscape architecture, geography, archeology, biology with a concentration in wildlife and/or botany, geology, or any one of the following life and physical sciences, geography with a concentration in conservation of environmental quality, natural resources or physical geography, ecology, zoology, engineering with an emphasis in acoustics or environmental management, environmental science or a related field, AND, three (3) years of progressively responsible professional level experience performing environmental analysis, planning, research, data analysis, and computations, and preparing and presenting reports and graphics as it relates to land use/environmental planning. Experience must be at the level equivalent to an Associate Planner (Land Use/Environmental Planner II) within the County of San Diego; OR,
2. A master's degree from an accredited U.S. college or university, or a certified foreign studies equivalency, in one of the fields stated above, AND, two (2) years of progressively responsible professional level experience as described above; OR,
3. One (1) year of experience as an Associate Planner (Land Use/Environmental Planner II) with the County of San Diego.
For additional information on the Senior Planner classification, please refer to the City of San Diego job classifications. The Department of Human Resources removes personally identifiable information from all recruitments. This practice, called Blind Applicant Screening, hides a candidate’s personal information that could influence or bias a hiring decision. Personal information includes name, phone number, address, gender, age and race. This process helps contribute to a more diverse and inclusive workforce.
Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of the application Work History and/or supplemental questionnaire.
Condition of Employment As part of the County of San Diego’s pre‑employment process, prospective candidates will undergo a background check (including fingerprinting) and a pre‑employment medical screening prior to beginning County employment. Additional types of background investigations may be conducted based on the job‑related activities of the position. Current County employees may be excluded from this process.
Evaluation Process Qualified applicants will be placed on a six (6) month employment list based on scores received during the evaluation of information contained in their employment and supplemental applications. Please ensure all information is complete and accurate, as the responses you provide on the supplemental application questionnaire will be reviewed using an automated evaluation system. If you are successful in the initial screening process, your application will be reviewed individually to confirm that the information you provided is accurate and qualifying.
Veteran’s Preference Policy The County of San Diego offers preferential credits for military service to assist qualified applicants in transitioning from military to civilian careers with the County of San Diego. Military Skills Translator: Do you need assistance translating your military experience into civilian experience? This tool can help!
Values and Mission The County of San Diego and its employees embrace the vision of: a just, sustainable, and resilient future for all. Our values include: integrity, equity, access, belonging, excellence, and sustainability. Each of which are infused throughout our operations. While also embracing a mission of strengthening our communities with innovative, inclusive, and data‑driven services through a skilled and supported workforce.
Under California Government Code Sections 3100 - 3109, public employees are designated disaster service workers. The term public employees includes all persons employed by the state or any county, city, state agency, or public district. Disaster service workers are required to participate in such disaster service activities as may be assigned to them by their employer or by law.
The County of San Diego is committed to valuing diversity and practicing inclusion because our diverse workforce is our greatest asset and our customers are our number one priority.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Future Salary Increases
June 2026 – 3.80% increase to base pay (3.5% Across-the-Board + .30% Market Adjustment)
June 2027 – 3.30% increase to base pay (3% Across-the-Board + .30% Market Adjustment)
Referral Program
This hard to recruit position qualifies for the Employee Referral Reward Program. If a current County of San Diego employee referred you to apply for this position, please indicate the employee’s name on your job application in the space provided.
Exceptional Professional Planning Career Opportunity!
Be part of a Progressive and Recognized Land Use/Environmental Program! This is your chance to make a real impact on the future of our communities—managing complex discretionary projects, reviewing in-depth planning and environmental studies, effectively engaging with stakeholders, and shaping recommendations that guide the region’s development and conservation.
The Department - Planning & Development Services Planning & Development Services (PDS) proudly undertakes the vital role of supporting the long‑term health and sustainability of 29 unincorporated communities, home to over 500,000 individuals, nested within San Diego County. PDS is a fast‑paced planning department with a vast array of project types in settings ranging from suburban to rural. Planners working for PDS will touch on projects ranging from mixed‑use, residential, commercial, affordable housing, renewable energy, and more. PDS consists of nine divisions: Building Services, Code Compliance, Land Development, Long‑Range Planning, Housing, Project Planning, Support Services, Sustainability and the Policy, Outreach and Data division.
Project Planning The Project Planning division reviews privately initiated, discretionary projects, specifically the review for compliance and conformance with Federal, State, and Local ordinances and policies including the General Plan, Zoning Ordinance, California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), and Community plans. The division is responsible for managing all aspects of new development projects in the County, including new affordable and market housing, renewable energy projects like solar and battery storage, and commercial and mixed‑use projects. In processing projects, the division engages with the public, management, stakeholders, and consultants and gives presentations to appointed and elected officials, including the Board of Supervisors.
The Position PDS employs Senior Planners who possess extensive expertise and leadership capabilities in overseeing highly advanced, complex, delicate and challenging planning initiatives. Senior Planners may conduct research and prepare plans, reports, studies, and memos on land use, physical, social, and economic issues; and synthesize and present information, reports and other findings to internal and external stakeholders, advisory boards, and elected officials.
Key Responsibilities
Performs planning and environmental review of complex discretionary projects for compliance with the County General Plan, Zoning Ordinance, CEQA and develops recommendations for adoption by decision‑making bodies.
Senior Planners independently review a wide scope of discretionary projects characterized by substantial public controversy and high complexity such as general plan amendments, specific plans, major use permits, and tentative maps.
Provides responsive, high‑quality service to County staff, partner agencies, developers, and the public.
Ideal Candidate Profile
Proven professional level experience as a land use or environmental planner, with experience managing complex discretionary projects involving several functional groups.
A strong willingness to continually learn and grow professionally.
A professional perspective and objective demeanor when positive or difficult situations occur.
The ability to communicate effectively in verbal and written form; strong presentation skills; and be a good listener.
Good interpersonal and teamwork skills, including building relationships and collaborating with internal and external stakeholders to keep projects moving in a positive direction.
Strong analytical skills and a solution‑oriented approach to land use and environmental planning issues.
If you believe that you possess these qualities, then the County of San Diego's Planning & Development Services would be an ideal place for your talents. We have a great culture that values collaboration and teamwork.
Work Location PDS is located within the recently constructed and LEED Certified County Operations Center, a modern 44‑acre complex in the Kearny Mesa area of San Diego. This state‑of‑the‑art facility encompasses 18 structures and houses 19 departments, including an employee gym/workout center. Kearny Mesa is located centrally with easy access from the 163 and 805 freeways, along a vibrant corridor with a variety of commercial services within walking distance.
Work Schedule The selected candidate(s) for PDS may be assigned a hybrid schedule consisting of teleworking and working at the County Operations Center in Kearny Mesa.
Hiring Process and Timeline
Job Offer and Background Process begins after the interviews. Note: Current County employees may be excluded from additional background screening.
Pre‑employment Medical Screening: Approximately 3 days following successful background investigation results.
Anticipated Start Date: Start date will be based upon successful completion of medical screening or other mutually agreed upon date.
Minimum Qualifications 1. A bachelor's degree from an accredited U.S. college or university, or a certified foreign studies equivalency, in city and regional planning, urban planning, aviation management, landscape architecture, geography, archeology, biology with a concentration in wildlife and/or botany, geology, or any one of the following life and physical sciences, geography with a concentration in conservation of environmental quality, natural resources or physical geography, ecology, zoology, engineering with an emphasis in acoustics or environmental management, environmental science or a related field, AND, three (3) years of progressively responsible professional level experience performing environmental analysis, planning, research, data analysis, and computations, and preparing and presenting reports and graphics as it relates to land use/environmental planning. Experience must be at the level equivalent to an Associate Planner (Land Use/Environmental Planner II) within the County of San Diego; OR,
2. A master's degree from an accredited U.S. college or university, or a certified foreign studies equivalency, in one of the fields stated above, AND, two (2) years of progressively responsible professional level experience as described above; OR,
3. One (1) year of experience as an Associate Planner (Land Use/Environmental Planner II) with the County of San Diego.
For additional information on the Senior Planner classification, please refer to the City of San Diego job classifications. The Department of Human Resources removes personally identifiable information from all recruitments. This practice, called Blind Applicant Screening, hides a candidate’s personal information that could influence or bias a hiring decision. Personal information includes name, phone number, address, gender, age and race. This process helps contribute to a more diverse and inclusive workforce.
Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of the application Work History and/or supplemental questionnaire.
Condition of Employment As part of the County of San Diego’s pre‑employment process, prospective candidates will undergo a background check (including fingerprinting) and a pre‑employment medical screening prior to beginning County employment. Additional types of background investigations may be conducted based on the job‑related activities of the position. Current County employees may be excluded from this process.
Evaluation Process Qualified applicants will be placed on a six (6) month employment list based on scores received during the evaluation of information contained in their employment and supplemental applications. Please ensure all information is complete and accurate, as the responses you provide on the supplemental application questionnaire will be reviewed using an automated evaluation system. If you are successful in the initial screening process, your application will be reviewed individually to confirm that the information you provided is accurate and qualifying.
Veteran’s Preference Policy The County of San Diego offers preferential credits for military service to assist qualified applicants in transitioning from military to civilian careers with the County of San Diego. Military Skills Translator: Do you need assistance translating your military experience into civilian experience? This tool can help!
Values and Mission The County of San Diego and its employees embrace the vision of: a just, sustainable, and resilient future for all. Our values include: integrity, equity, access, belonging, excellence, and sustainability. Each of which are infused throughout our operations. While also embracing a mission of strengthening our communities with innovative, inclusive, and data‑driven services through a skilled and supported workforce.
Under California Government Code Sections 3100 - 3109, public employees are designated disaster service workers. The term public employees includes all persons employed by the state or any county, city, state agency, or public district. Disaster service workers are required to participate in such disaster service activities as may be assigned to them by their employer or by law.
The County of San Diego is committed to valuing diversity and practicing inclusion because our diverse workforce is our greatest asset and our customers are our number one priority.
#J-18808-Ljbffr