Planner I

Full Job Description

Bargaining Union: International Federation of Professional & Technical Engineers, Local 21

Why join the Contra Costa Department of Conservation and Development?
DCD is headed by a Director, and within DCD there are five (5) divisions under a Senior Deputy Director, Deputy Director, or Assistant Deputy Director: 1) Current Planning; 2) Policy Planning 3) Building Inspection Services; 4) Business and Information Services, and 5) Housing and Community Improvement. DCD’s main office is located in Martinez. DCD has a total staffing of approximately 175 positions serving the entire County of Contra Costa.

The GIS Planner I is an entry-level professional planning position within the GIS Group of the Department of Conservation & Development.

This role combines land use planning and spatial analysis to support general plan implementation, development review, environmental analysis, and policy development across multiple planning fields.

Under the general direction of a Principal Planner or Assistant Deputy Director, the GIS Planner I performs professional planning duties involving data collection and analysis, mapping, public contact, and report preparation.

Assignments are designed to build foundational professional competence and prepare incumbents for advancement within the planning series.

The GIS Group supports all DCD divisions by developing, managing, analyzing, and presenting spatial and demographic data used in land use decision-making.

The team informs policymakers, staff, and the public about land use patterns, environmental constraints, infrastructure systems, service boundaries, demographics, and community trends.

The GIS Group also supports public communication efforts, including interactive web mapping, data visualization, website content support, community outreach materials, and emergency operations mapping.

We are looking for someone who is:

• Detail-Oriented. You will create reports and general plans which contain data and facts which must be accurate
• Motivated to Develop Professionally. Interested in building knowledge and experience across multiple planning fields
• Regulations-Focused: Able to interpret and apply zoning ordinances, general plan policies, and applicable laws when reviewing permit applications
• Technically Proficient. Comfortable using technical tools and systems to support planning work

What you will typically be responsible for:

• Conducting spatial analysis and mapping studies for written reports
• Contributing to general plans, specific plans ordinance updates, and related projects
• Preparing maps, exhibits, and technical materials for staff reports and presentations
• Advising the public on procedural requirements, applicable policies, and application requests
• Reviewing permit applications for compliance with zoning and planning regulations
• Preparing written correspondence and staff reports on routine planning matters

A few reasons you might love this job:

• Flexible work schedule options! Many employees work a 9/80 schedule or potential hybrid work schedule (subject to departmental needs)
• Exposure to multiple planning fields and complex projects
• Opportunities to develop professional planning expertise
• You will work with a group of outstanding and caring colleagues
• You will work in a supportive and collaborative atmosphere

A few challenges you might face in this job:

• You will be expected to manage a high volume of projects with competing deadlines
• You will need to exhibit tact when dealing with the public
• Working within California's complex regulatory framework, including land use law and CEQA
• Ensuring accuracy and defensibility of planning analysis and GIS data under pressure

Competencies Required:

• Analyzing & Interpreting Data: Drawing meaning and conclusions from quantitative or qualitative data
• Professional & Technical Expertise: Applying technical subject matter to the job
• Industry Monitoring: Grasping the external political, economic, competitive, and social factors affecting the industry
• Legal & Regulatory Navigation: Understanding, interpreting, and ensuring compliance with laws and regulations
• Building & Maintaining Relationships: Establishing rapport and maintaining mutually productive relationships
• Professional Integrity & Ethics: Displaying honesty, adherence to principles, and personal accountability
• Displaying Ownership and Accountability: Holding self and others accountable for measurable high-quality, timely, and cost-effective results
• Thinking & Acting Systematically: Formulating objectives and priorities, and implementing plans consistent with the long-term interests of the organization in a global environment
• Writing: Communicating effectively in writing
• Oral Communication: Engaging effectively in dialogue
• Presentation Skill: Formally delivering information to groups

To read the complete job description, please visit the website, www.cccounty.us/hr.

The eligible list established from this recruitment may be used to fill future openings for up to six (6) months.

Qualifications

License Required: Possession of a valid California Motor Vehicle Operator's License. Out of state valid motor vehicle operator's license will be accepted during the application process.

Education: Possession of a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with a major in city or regional planning, or a closely related field.

Substitution: Six (6) months of full-time, or its equivalent, experience performing technical planning duties in a planning office may be substituted for the required major.

Desirable Qualifications:

• Experience with ArcGIS Pro and ArcGIS Online
• Ability to manage and analyze large datasets using spreadsheets
• Familiarity with SQL, Python, or Arcade for GIS tasks
• Experience working with Census or demographic data and creating dashboards or maps
• Experience developing web-based GIS tools
• Basic website management skills
• Knowledge of ADA digital accessibility requirements

Additional Information

1. Application Filing and Evaluation: All applicants must apply online at www.contracostacounty.com/hr and supplemental questionnaire at the time of application, applications will be evaluated to determine which candidates will move forward in the next phase of the recruitment process.
   
   

Online Skills Assessment: Candidates invited to take the online skills assessment will need access to a computer and internet.

Topics of this assessment may include but are not limited to: Professional & Technical Expertise, Legal & Regulatory Navigation, Analyzing & Interpreting Data, Thinking & Acting Systematically, Building & Maintaining Relationships, Writing, and Industry Monitoring.

(Weighted 100%) The multiple-choice assessment will be administered remotely using a computer or mobile device such as a tablet.

2. You will need access to a reliable internet connection to take the assessment.
   
   
3. Departmental Hiring Interview: Tentatively scheduled for TBD