JOB DESCRIPTION

The Associate Planner supports the Town's planning and development functions by reviewing and analyzing a variety of land use and development applications to ensure compliance with local, state, and federal regulations. This position provides technical assistance and guidance to property owners, developers, and the public on zoning, design review, environmental assessment, and related planning matters. The Associate Planner also prepares staff reports, presents recommendations to the Planning Commission and Town Council, and contributes to long-term planning initiatives that promote thoughtful, sustainable development consistent with San Anselmo's General Plan.

**The Town welcomes applicants with diverse experience levels. Candidates with less planning experience are encouraged to apply and may be alternatively considered for the Assistant Planner position ($88,716–$107,844), depending on experience and qualifications.

ABOUT THE DEPARTMENT

The Community Development Department works to make San Anselmo an exceptional place to live, work, and conduct business, with a strong emphasis on improving and preserving the community's quality of life. The Department includes two divisions: Building and Planning. Together, these divisions manage land use planning, maintain the Zoning Ordinance and General Plan, oversee housing programs, facilitate the land use entitlement process, and ensure public safety through the enforcement of local ordinances and the California Building Codes.

The Building Division reviews building permit applications to ensure compliance with local and
state building codes, including structural, mechanical, plumbing, and energy efficiency standards
while providing inspection and code enforcement services for all building-related construction.
Currently, the Town's permit counter currently operates four days a week.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

PUBLIC ASSISTANCE & CUSTOMER SERVICE

• Assist the public at the count and by phone with information regarding zoning, building codes, land use, development regulations, and related procedures
• Build and maintain positive working relationships with other Town employees, agencies, and the public using principles of good customer service
• Provide technical guidance to property owners, contractors, and design professionals on permit and entitlement process
• Educate and assist residents and business owners with compliance initiatives

PLANNING & PROJECT REVIEW

• Evaluate private and public development project applications for conformance with zoning, design, and environmental requirements, including: sign permits, variances, use permits, subdivisions, design review, zoning amendments, and general plan amendments
• Process applications, conduct preliminary and final site reviews, and ensure compliance with Town policies and State law
• Make recommendations and present findings at public hearings before the Planning Commission and Town Council
• Coordinate multi-departmental review of projects to ensure consistency with adopted plans and policies

ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW

• Conduct environmental assessments of private and public projects prior to project review
• Make recommendations regarding the need for Environmental Impact Reports (EIRs), Negative Declarations, and appropriate mitigation measures
• Prepare initial studies, Negative Declarations, and other CEQA documentation

COORDINATION & REPORTING

• Coordinate with other Town departments and public agencies as required
• Correspond and meet with applicants and/or their representatives regarding project status
• Prepare written staff reports, presentations, and agenda materials for Planning Commission and Town Council meetings
• Manage projects from pre-application through building completion and occupancy
• Provide professional and technical support to the Community Development Director as needed

CODE COMPLIANCE

• Investigate complaints and conduct field inspections related to zoning, land use, and development conditions
• Seek compliance through written and personal contact and issue warning notices as necessary
• Maintain case files, prepare evidence for hearings or court proceedings, and testify in court as required
• Collaborate with Building and Public Works departments to resolve violations and ensure consistency with municipal codes

POLICY DEVELOPMENT & LONG-TERM PLANNING

• Research, draft, and update policy documents and ordinances
• Participate in housing and economic development initiatives, including preparation of inclusionary housing ordinances and objective design standards
• Assist in development of new planning programs
• Monitor legislative changes and recommend updates to maintain compliance with State law and best practices

THE IDEAL CANDIDATE

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor's degree in environmental studies, urban or regional planning, or a related field (equivalent experience may be considered)
• Minimum of two (2) years of professional planning experience in regional planning, zoning administration, land use review, or community development
• Experience working on planning projects in a municipal government or a regulatory agency is desirable

LICENSES & CERTIFICATIONS

• Possession of a valid California driver's license (Class C)

BENEFITS

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS

Our comprehensive benefits package includes:

  • PERS Retirement
  • Paid Sick, Vacation & Holiday Leave
  • Generous coverage for health, vision, dental, life, and LTD insurance