Principal Planner

Job Description

CSG Consultants is seeking a Principal Planner to oversee and manage complex planning projects and divisions within our planning department. This role involves supervising professional staff, managing large-scale development proposals, and advising on planning-related matters. The Principal Planner may also serve as a deputy for the Senior Principal Planner or Planning Director.

Responsibilities:

• Manage complex and sensitive planning projects, including research and analysis.
• Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal laws.
• Oversee large-scale development proposals and environmental studies.
• Advise the Senior Principal Planner/Planning Director and various councils and boards.
• Supervise the Planning Department and serve as liaison to the Planning Commission.
• Assign tasks, provide training, and evaluate staff performance.
• Prepare and recommend improvements based on operational reports.
• Participate in budget preparation and control expenditures.
• Attend evening and weekend meetings as needed.
• Act as Senior Principal Planner/Planning Director in their absence.

Qualifications:

• Required: Bachelor’s degree in Planning, Architecture, Urban Studies, or related field, with five years of managerial-level experience in governmental planning.
• Preferred: Master’s degree in a related field (substitutes for one year of managerial experience), APA or AICP certification.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and Adobe Creative Suite is advantageous.
• -trong critical thinking, interpersonal, and communication skills.

Knowledge and Skills:

• Principles and practices of governmental planning, public administration, and staff management.
• State Planning Act, California Land Conservation Act, and California Environmental Quality Act.
• Ability to organize, coordinate, direct, and evaluate planning staff and functions.
• Develop and implement creative solutions and communicate effectively with various stakeholders.

Working Conditions:

• Work independently or as part of a team.
• Manage multiple priorities and detailed documents.
• Occasionally work at inspection sites and drive to client locations.
• Ability to handle a fast-paced environment with multiple projects.

Pay and Benefits: Compensation: $124,000 to $165,000 per year (varies based on skills, experience, and location). Benefits: 401(k) with company match, Employee Stock Ownership Program, 12 paid holidays, 3 weeks PTO, medical, dental, vision, FSA, EAP, Life/AD&D, LTD, voluntary life insurance, casual work environment, and professional development resources.