Planner I-II
Apply NowCompany: City of Novato, CA
Location: Novato, CA 94947
Description:
Salary : $79,276.20 - $105,832.32 Annually
Location : Novato, CA
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 2025-14
Department: Community Development
Division: Planning
Opening Date: 04/21/2025
Closing Date: 5/11/2025 11:59 PM Pacific
Job Description
Come Join Our Team!
THE CITY OF NOVATO IS RECRUITING
FOR
PLANNER I/II
*The offer of Planner I or Planner II will be based on the successful candidate's training and experience*
Application Deadline: 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, May 11, 2025
The City of Novato is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Planner I/II to join our Community Development team. This is an exciting opportunity for an emerging or experienced planning professional to contribute to the City's growth and development while working on a variety of current and long-range planning projects.
We are looking for a proactive and analytical individual who thrives in a collaborative environment and enjoys problem-solving. The ideal candidate will have a strong foundation in land use planning, zoning regulations, and environmental review processes. They will also be skilled in conducting research, analyzing development proposals, and working with developers, residents, and community stakeholders to ensure projects align with the City's vision and regulatory standards.
Novato is a dynamic and forward-thinking organization that values innovation, teamwork, and public service. Whether you are starting your planning career or looking to apply your expertise at a higher level, this role offers an excellent opportunity to grow and make a meaningful impact in our community. We encourage you to apply!
Additional Benefits
THE CITY OF NOVATO
Novato residents enjoy a thriving and family-oriented community with abundant educational, recreational, retail, and business opportunities. Residents are actively involved in important local quality of life decisions and the future direction of their City. The City Council encourages a high level of interaction between its citizenry and city government so that important issues are collaboratively explored and ideas are shared to develop the best possible outcomes. With a population of nearly 56,000, the community continues to foster a small-town atmosphere due to its low population density, large open space areas and parks, vibrant downtown, and inclusive community. With an abundance of natural beauty, a rich history, comfortable neighborhoods, a diversified economy, a promising life sciences industry, and passage of Measure M (sales tax), the City is well-positioned to continue to thrive into the 21st century!
Class specifications are intended to present a descriptive list of the range of duties performed by employees in the class. Specifications are not intended to reflect all duties performed within the job.
DEFINITION
To perform professional level work in the field of current and advanced planning; and to provide information and assistance to developers, the business community and the public on planning, housing, and development related matters; and process development permit applications.
DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS
Planner I --This is the entry level class in the professional planning series. Work activities involve the responsibility for assignments in the fields of current or advance planning or environmental analysis which require the application of fundamental planning principles. Assignments are generally limited in scope and within the design and procedural framework established by higher level employees. However, as experience is acquired, the employee performs with increasing independence. The Planner I position is a training position. As assigned responsibilities and breadth of knowledge increase with experience, incumbents are expected to be performing at a journey level and to be reassigned to the next higher class of Planner II upon meeting the distinguishing characteristics of this position.
Planner II--This is the journey level class in the professional planning series. Positions in this class are flexibly staffed and are normally filled by advancement from the lower class of Planner I, or when filled from the outside, require prior professional planning work experience. Work involves responsibility for the application of professional knowledge and skills to various municipal planning problems and projects. Responsibilities include the preparation of specific reports and plans with opportunity for independent judgment in planning work details and making technical determinations. Work in this class is distinguished from that of the Planner I class by the greater complexity of the assignments received and by the greater independence with which the incumbent is expected to operate.
SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED
Planner I
Receives general supervision and direction from the Senior Planner, Principal Planner, or Deputy Director.
May exercise functional and technical supervision over technical and clerical staff.
Planner II
Receives direction from the Principal Planner or Deputy Director.
May exercise functional and technical supervision over technical and clerical staff.
Example of Duties
ESSENTIAL AND MARGINAL FUNCTION STATEMENTS--Essential and other important responsibilities and duties of a Planner I/II may include, but are not limited to, the following:
Essential Functions:
Marginal Functions:
Typical Qualifications
QUALIFICATIONS
Planner I
Knowledge of:
Modern principles and practices of urban planning and development.
Site planning and architectural design, including reading and interpreting design drawings.
Current literature, information sources, and research techniques in the field of urban planning.
Modern office methods, practices, procedures and computer equipment.
Professional writing principles and practices, including proper grammar and format.
Ability to:
Learn laws underlying general plans, zoning and land divisions.
Learn applicable environmental laws and regulations, and methods of assessment.
Learn, interpret, and explain planning and zoning regulations and procedures to the general public.
Analyze and compile statistical and technical information, including recommendations regarding the use of property.
Prepare a variety of planning reports.
Understand and carry out oral and written directions.
Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.
Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.
Effectively interact and communicate with others.
Experience and Training Guidelines
Any combination of experience and training that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be:
Experience:
Some directly related planning experience is desirable, such as an internship with a planning agency or private firm engaged in planning, or an agency/firm focused on land development (architecture, civil engineering, etc.)
Training:
Equivalent to a Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in urban planning, regional planning, or a related field.
Planner II
In addition to the qualifications for Planner I:
Knowledge of:
Laws underlying general plans, zoning and land divisions.
Applicable environmental laws and regulations.
Ability to:
Interpret planning and zoning programs to the general public.
Perform professional planning work with a minimum of supervision.
Experience and Training Guidelines
Any combination of experience and training that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be:
Experience:
Two years of professional planning experience.
Training:
Equivalent to a Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in urban planning, regional planning, or a related field.
Additional Information
Working Conditions and Environmental Conditions:
Work in a typical office environment utilizing computers. Occasional attendance at night and weekend meetings and events is required. Duties require positions to, on a continuous basis, sit at a desk for long periods of time; intermittently twist to reach equipment surrounding desk; perform simple grasping and fine manipulation; use telephone, write or use a keyboard to communicate through written means; and lift or carry weight of 10 pounds or less.
SELECTION PROCESS
It is important to complete all required application materials, including the supplemental questionnaire and any required additional documents. All applications will be screened for completeness and possession of minimum qualifications. Qualified applications will be reviewed in detail to identify the most qualified candidates to continue in the selection process which may consist solely of an application screening, or may include a written examination, skills assessment, oral appraisal interview, assessment center, or other activity selected by the Human Resources Department and the hiring department. As a result of the selection process an eligibility list of qualified candidates will be established to fill current and future vacancies as long as the eligibility list remains active. Candidates who score the highest in the selection process will be required to pass a reference and background exam prior to receiving a conditional job offer. Candidates receiving a conditional offer of employment will be required to pass a pre-employment medical and drug screen examination prior to receiving a final job offer.
APPLICATION PROCEDURE
Only online applications will be accepted. To be considered for this exciting opportunity, candidates must complete an online application and the required supplemental questionnaire. The supplemental questionnaire is part of the application; please provide sufficient detail to enable your answers to be rated.
APPLICATION DEADLINE: 11:59PM on Sunday, May 11, 2025
Accommodation: Applicants who may require special assistance in any step of the selection process should advise Human Resources by emailing hr@novato.org upon submittal of application.
The City of Novato is an Equal Opportunity Employer
Salary:
Starting salary is generally the first step of the range listed; however, advanced step appointments may be approved based upon qualifications when warranted. Subsequent salary increases within the range are scheduled yearly and may be granted based upon satisfactory service.
9/80 work schedule with closures on alternate Fridays. Employees work nine hours per day and eight hours per day on the working Friday.
Benefits:
#1021 MOU
The City participates in the California Public Employees' Retirement System (CalPERS). In compliance with AB 340, CalPERS retirement formula is either 2% at 55; employee contributes 9.5% of salary, or 2% at 62; employee contributes 7.25% of salary, depending on eligibility.
The City provides a specific dollar amount to each employee based on the employee's benefit enrollment level to apply to medical, dental, life and disability insurance. The dental program and life insurance policy are mandatory. Health, vision and disability options are available. Employees who do NOT enroll in a healthcare plan through the City will receive up to $250 per month as an addition to their gross earnings.
Other Benefits Information:
Leaves:
01
I understand that this position requires that I successfully complete and pass a pre-employment physical, fingerprinting (LiveScan), and drug screen.
02
I certify that all information provided on my application and supplemental questionnaire is true and accurate to the best of my knowledge; and I understand that all information is subject to verification; and that false or incomplete information will result in disqualification from the selection process or dismissal, if hired.
Required Question
Location : Novato, CA
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 2025-14
Department: Community Development
Division: Planning
Opening Date: 04/21/2025
Closing Date: 5/11/2025 11:59 PM Pacific
Job Description
Come Join Our Team!
THE CITY OF NOVATO IS RECRUITING
FOR
PLANNER I/II
*The offer of Planner I or Planner II will be based on the successful candidate's training and experience*
Application Deadline: 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, May 11, 2025
The City of Novato is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Planner I/II to join our Community Development team. This is an exciting opportunity for an emerging or experienced planning professional to contribute to the City's growth and development while working on a variety of current and long-range planning projects.
We are looking for a proactive and analytical individual who thrives in a collaborative environment and enjoys problem-solving. The ideal candidate will have a strong foundation in land use planning, zoning regulations, and environmental review processes. They will also be skilled in conducting research, analyzing development proposals, and working with developers, residents, and community stakeholders to ensure projects align with the City's vision and regulatory standards.
Novato is a dynamic and forward-thinking organization that values innovation, teamwork, and public service. Whether you are starting your planning career or looking to apply your expertise at a higher level, this role offers an excellent opportunity to grow and make a meaningful impact in our community. We encourage you to apply!
Additional Benefits
- 9/80 work schedule, every other Friday off
- Accrue vacation at a rate of 80 hours per year
- Provided with 40 hours of sick leave upon hire
- 14 paid holidays per year
- Monthly health premium paid by the City up to $2,893.54, depending on enrollment
- Qualified Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Agency
- Free parking on site
- Office is within walking distance of terrific restaurants, shopping, and the downtown SMART station
THE CITY OF NOVATO
Novato residents enjoy a thriving and family-oriented community with abundant educational, recreational, retail, and business opportunities. Residents are actively involved in important local quality of life decisions and the future direction of their City. The City Council encourages a high level of interaction between its citizenry and city government so that important issues are collaboratively explored and ideas are shared to develop the best possible outcomes. With a population of nearly 56,000, the community continues to foster a small-town atmosphere due to its low population density, large open space areas and parks, vibrant downtown, and inclusive community. With an abundance of natural beauty, a rich history, comfortable neighborhoods, a diversified economy, a promising life sciences industry, and passage of Measure M (sales tax), the City is well-positioned to continue to thrive into the 21st century!
Class specifications are intended to present a descriptive list of the range of duties performed by employees in the class. Specifications are not intended to reflect all duties performed within the job.
DEFINITION
To perform professional level work in the field of current and advanced planning; and to provide information and assistance to developers, the business community and the public on planning, housing, and development related matters; and process development permit applications.
DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS
Planner I --This is the entry level class in the professional planning series. Work activities involve the responsibility for assignments in the fields of current or advance planning or environmental analysis which require the application of fundamental planning principles. Assignments are generally limited in scope and within the design and procedural framework established by higher level employees. However, as experience is acquired, the employee performs with increasing independence. The Planner I position is a training position. As assigned responsibilities and breadth of knowledge increase with experience, incumbents are expected to be performing at a journey level and to be reassigned to the next higher class of Planner II upon meeting the distinguishing characteristics of this position.
Planner II--This is the journey level class in the professional planning series. Positions in this class are flexibly staffed and are normally filled by advancement from the lower class of Planner I, or when filled from the outside, require prior professional planning work experience. Work involves responsibility for the application of professional knowledge and skills to various municipal planning problems and projects. Responsibilities include the preparation of specific reports and plans with opportunity for independent judgment in planning work details and making technical determinations. Work in this class is distinguished from that of the Planner I class by the greater complexity of the assignments received and by the greater independence with which the incumbent is expected to operate.
SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED
Planner I
Receives general supervision and direction from the Senior Planner, Principal Planner, or Deputy Director.
May exercise functional and technical supervision over technical and clerical staff.
Planner II
Receives direction from the Principal Planner or Deputy Director.
May exercise functional and technical supervision over technical and clerical staff.
Example of Duties
ESSENTIAL AND MARGINAL FUNCTION STATEMENTS--Essential and other important responsibilities and duties of a Planner I/II may include, but are not limited to, the following:
Essential Functions:
- Research, analyze and interpret social, economic, population and land use data and trends; prepare written reports on various planning matters and elements of the general plan.
- Prepare initial studies and assist in preparing or reviewing environmental impact reports.
- Compile information and make recommendations on special studies; prepare planning reports.
- Review development proposals and work with developers to reach agreement on acceptable site plans; review various development applications for compliance with appropriate regulations and policies, and prepare reports of recommendations.
- Prepare and present staff reports for the City Council, Planning Commission, various committees and advisory boards as directed.
- Check commercial, industrial and residential development plans for issuance of zoning clearance; process permit applications; review permit applications, business licenses and home occupation permits.
- Inspect properties and structures for compliance with current City zoning codes and regulations; recommend improvements; identify corrective actions to be taken by owner.
- Research and draft ordinances for review.
- Confer with and advise architects, builders, attorneys, contractors, engineers, and the general public regarding City development policies and standards.
- Respond to and resolve difficult citizen inquiries and complaints regarding the City's planning function.
Marginal Functions:
- Participate in coordinating City planning activities with outside departments.
- Perform related duties as assigned.
Typical Qualifications
QUALIFICATIONS
Planner I
Knowledge of:
Modern principles and practices of urban planning and development.
Site planning and architectural design, including reading and interpreting design drawings.
Current literature, information sources, and research techniques in the field of urban planning.
Modern office methods, practices, procedures and computer equipment.
Professional writing principles and practices, including proper grammar and format.
Ability to:
Learn laws underlying general plans, zoning and land divisions.
Learn applicable environmental laws and regulations, and methods of assessment.
Learn, interpret, and explain planning and zoning regulations and procedures to the general public.
Analyze and compile statistical and technical information, including recommendations regarding the use of property.
Prepare a variety of planning reports.
Understand and carry out oral and written directions.
Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.
Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.
Effectively interact and communicate with others.
Experience and Training Guidelines
Any combination of experience and training that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be:
Experience:
Some directly related planning experience is desirable, such as an internship with a planning agency or private firm engaged in planning, or an agency/firm focused on land development (architecture, civil engineering, etc.)
Training:
Equivalent to a Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in urban planning, regional planning, or a related field.
Planner II
In addition to the qualifications for Planner I:
Knowledge of:
Laws underlying general plans, zoning and land divisions.
Applicable environmental laws and regulations.
Ability to:
Interpret planning and zoning programs to the general public.
Perform professional planning work with a minimum of supervision.
Experience and Training Guidelines
Any combination of experience and training that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be:
Experience:
Two years of professional planning experience.
Training:
Equivalent to a Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in urban planning, regional planning, or a related field.
Additional Information
Working Conditions and Environmental Conditions:
Work in a typical office environment utilizing computers. Occasional attendance at night and weekend meetings and events is required. Duties require positions to, on a continuous basis, sit at a desk for long periods of time; intermittently twist to reach equipment surrounding desk; perform simple grasping and fine manipulation; use telephone, write or use a keyboard to communicate through written means; and lift or carry weight of 10 pounds or less.
SELECTION PROCESS
It is important to complete all required application materials, including the supplemental questionnaire and any required additional documents. All applications will be screened for completeness and possession of minimum qualifications. Qualified applications will be reviewed in detail to identify the most qualified candidates to continue in the selection process which may consist solely of an application screening, or may include a written examination, skills assessment, oral appraisal interview, assessment center, or other activity selected by the Human Resources Department and the hiring department. As a result of the selection process an eligibility list of qualified candidates will be established to fill current and future vacancies as long as the eligibility list remains active. Candidates who score the highest in the selection process will be required to pass a reference and background exam prior to receiving a conditional job offer. Candidates receiving a conditional offer of employment will be required to pass a pre-employment medical and drug screen examination prior to receiving a final job offer.
APPLICATION PROCEDURE
Only online applications will be accepted. To be considered for this exciting opportunity, candidates must complete an online application and the required supplemental questionnaire. The supplemental questionnaire is part of the application; please provide sufficient detail to enable your answers to be rated.
APPLICATION DEADLINE: 11:59PM on Sunday, May 11, 2025
Accommodation: Applicants who may require special assistance in any step of the selection process should advise Human Resources by emailing hr@novato.org upon submittal of application.
The City of Novato is an Equal Opportunity Employer
Salary:
Starting salary is generally the first step of the range listed; however, advanced step appointments may be approved based upon qualifications when warranted. Subsequent salary increases within the range are scheduled yearly and may be granted based upon satisfactory service.
9/80 work schedule with closures on alternate Fridays. Employees work nine hours per day and eight hours per day on the working Friday.
Benefits:
#1021 MOU
The City participates in the California Public Employees' Retirement System (CalPERS). In compliance with AB 340, CalPERS retirement formula is either 2% at 55; employee contributes 9.5% of salary, or 2% at 62; employee contributes 7.25% of salary, depending on eligibility.
The City provides a specific dollar amount to each employee based on the employee's benefit enrollment level to apply to medical, dental, life and disability insurance. The dental program and life insurance policy are mandatory. Health, vision and disability options are available. Employees who do NOT enroll in a healthcare plan through the City will receive up to $250 per month as an addition to their gross earnings.
Other Benefits Information:
- Employee Assistance Program: A City-paid EAP is available for employees and members of their household.
- Long-term Disability Insurance is provided as an optional benefit. Employee pays $9.78 per month if opting in.
- State Disability Insurance (SDI) is provided. Employee pays 0.6% of salary (pre-tax).
- Deferred Compensation Savings Plans (457) are available to employees through a deferred compensation program.
- Employee must pay an amount equal to 1.45% of salary toward Medicare. An equal amount is paid by the City.
- The City does not participate in Social Security.
Leaves:
- The City offers 14 paid holidays;
- 80 hours of vacation after 1 year (graduates to 21 days for 20 years of service); Employees currently working for another agency (state, federal or local) will have their vacation rate adjusted to account for their years of service with that public agency.
- New employees will receive 40 hours of sick leave on their start date. (unused leave applied to service credit at retirement).
01
I understand that this position requires that I successfully complete and pass a pre-employment physical, fingerprinting (LiveScan), and drug screen.
- Yes
- No
02
I certify that all information provided on my application and supplemental questionnaire is true and accurate to the best of my knowledge; and I understand that all information is subject to verification; and that false or incomplete information will result in disqualification from the selection process or dismissal, if hired.
- Yes
- No
Required Question