Associate Planner

Associate Planner

Salary

$93,305.14 - $113,412.98 Annually

Location

Murrieta City Hall, CA

Job Type

Full-Time

Job Number

2026-40

Department

Development Services

Division

Planning

Opening Date

09/30/2026

Closing Date

10/21/2026 11:59 PM Pacific

FLSA

Non-Exempt

Bargaining Unit

MSA

• Description
• Benefits
• Questions

Description and Essential Functions

Connected by Amazing Employees

The City of Murrieta is accepting applications for the position of Associate Planner to fill one (1) current vacancy for our Development Services Department. The eligibility list established may be used to fill upcoming vacancies within this classification for up to one (1) year.

Work Schedule: This position is currently assigned a regular 9/80 work schedule; however, the schedule is subject to change based on operational needs.

DEFINITION

Under general direction, performs various professional field and office planning work related to current and advance planning, including review of development and land use applications, zoning, site plans, and environmental documents; provides project management and administration; completes technical assessments and prepares written project analyses; provides environmental review and project analysis for Capital Improvement Program (CIP) and special projects in advance planning; provides professional advice and assistance to the public on planning, community development, zoning, permits, and environmental review; provides professional staff assistance to the City Planner, other departments, and the public in areas of expertise; performs a variety of studies and prepares and presents staff reports; and performs related work as required.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED

Receives general direction from the City Planner. Exercises no supervision of staff. May exercise technical and functional direction over and provide training to lower-level staff.

CLASS CHARACTERISTICS

This is the full journey-level classification in the professional planning series. Positions at this level are distinguished from the Assistant level by the performance of the full range of duties as assigned, working independently, and exercising judgment and initiative. Positions at this level receive only occasional instruction or assistance as new or unusual situations arise and are fully aware of the operating procedures and policies of the work unit. This class is distinguished from the Sr. Planner in that the latter is the advanced journey-level class in the series and is responsible for organizing, assigning, and reviewing the work of departmental and/or contract staff involved in a major area of the Planning Division, in addition to performing the more complex planning and project management activities.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Management reserves the right to add, modify, or remove job duties as necessary and will make reasonable accommodations consistent with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) to enable qualified individuals to perform the position's essential functions. The omission of a specific duty does not preclude it from being assigned if it is similar, related, or logically aligned with the role's overall responsibilities.

• Reviews routine to complex commercial, industrial, and residential development proposals, plans, and applications for issuance of zoning clearance and for compliance with appropriate codes, ordinances, standards, laws, rules, regulations, and policies
• Reviews permit applications and building plans for completeness and compliance with current City codes and regulations; provides interpretations of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), Subdivision Map Act, and local environmental guidelines; identifies corrective actions to be taken by owners; recommends improvement and rehabilitation programs; conducts follow-up and re-check and approves or denies submittals
• Reviews and signs off on plans submitted for Building Plan Check and permits
• Prepares or assists in preparing and reviewing environmental impact reports; prepares written initial studies, negative declarations, and staff reports related to development projects or City projects
• Assists the public, answering questions and providing information regarding zoning, land use, development standards, approved development proposals, and the Citys entitlement process; performs plan check functions for various projects; receives and reviews applications for building permits for completeness; receives and records zoning and code compliance complaints, establishes appropriate files, performs inspections of document violations, coordinates actions with those of other agencies, and implements appropriate procedures to correct or resolve each complaint and violation
• Serves as project manager on planning and development projects, which includes application and plan review, coordination with project applicants and other City departments, preparation and posting of legal notices, background research, environmental review, preparation of staff reports, scheduling meetings and hearings, and monitoring of project implementation to verify substantial conformance with approved plans, conditions, and mitigation measures; suggests revisions to site plans and architecture; inspects project development sites
• Compiles information for a variety of studies and reports; researches, analyzes, and interprets social, economic, population, and land use data and trends; researches and reviews previous entitlements and City records; develops recommendations and prepares written reports on various planning matters and the Citys General Plan; participates in the implementation and administration of the Citys General Plan and development regulations
• Researches, collects, records, analyzes, interprets, and summarizes statistical and demographic information; prepares spreadsheets and establishes and maintains a comprehensive database
• Prepares and presents staff reports for the City Council, Planning Commission, Development Review Committee, Zoning Administrator, Staff Review Committee, and various other committees and advisory boards as directed; prepares research, reports, maps, and conducts briefings and meetings
• Confers with and advises architects, builders, attorneys, contractors, engineers, and the general public regarding City development policies and standards; provides and clarifies information relative to land use, zoning, code interpretation, general plan compliance, signage, and other issues
• Researches and assists in preparing ordinances for review
• Participates in coordinating City planning and development related activities with other City departments and with outside agencies
• Refers to and applies numerous documents including the General Plan, Zoning Ordinance, California Environmental Quality Act, Subdivision Map Act, State Planning laws, Municipal Code, Specific Plans, Redevelopment Guidelines, emergency operations manual, historical preservation guidelines, County tax assessors maps and records, building and architecture plans, etc
• Attends meetings, conferences, workshops, and training sessions; attends and participates in professional group meetings; stays abreast of new trends and innovations in the field of urban planning and other types of public services as they relate to the area of assignment
• May provide technical direction and training to other planning and technical staff
• Observes and complies with City and mandated safety rules, regulations, and protocols
• Performs other duties as assigned

Minimum Qualifications

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Any combination of education, training, and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities may be considered qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required qualifications includes:

Required:

• Equivalent to a bachelors degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in urban planning, community development, business or public administration, or a related field and
• Three (3) years of professional experience in planning, zoning, and related community development activities

LICENSES AND CERTIFICATIONS

• Ability to travel to meetings, trainings, site visits, and special events throughout the City may be required. Employee must have access to reliable transportation as needed

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

Disaster Service Workers

In accordance with Government Code 3100, this position is declared to be a disaster service worker subject to such disaster service activities as may be assigned to them by their superiors or by law.

Tier 1 - Basic Pre-Employment Requirements

Final candidates must successfully complete a basic pre-employment screening process, which includes a Department of Justice Live Scan (DOJ/LS) background check and a non-safety pre-employment physical examination to ensure the ability to perform the essential functions of the position, with or without reasonable accommodation.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities / Physical Demands and Environmental Conditions

KNOWLEDGE OF

• Modern principles and practices of technical and legal issues of urban and regional planning, zoning, urban economics, demographics, and environmental planning and program management
• Geographic, socio-economic, transportation, political, and other elements related to city planning
• Comprehensive plans and current planning processes and the development process
• Site planning and architectural design principles
• General concepts of architecture, landscaping, grading, drainage, and traffic and transportation engineering as they relate to the process of urban planning
• Operational characteristics, services, and activities of a comprehensive environmental planning program
• Applicable Federal, State, and local laws, rules, regulations, ordinances, and organizational policies and procedures relevant to assigned area of responsibility
• Project management and contract administration principles and techniques
• Researching and reporting methods, techniques, and procedures
• Recent developments, current literature, and sources of information related to planning, zoning, and environmental review
• Modern office practices, methods, and computer equipment and applications related to the work
• Practices of researching planning and land use issues, evaluating alternatives, making sound recommendations, and preparing and presenting effective staff reports
• Principles of advanced mathematics and their application to planning work
• Methods and techniques of effective technical report preparation and presentation
• Techniques for effectively representing the City in contacts with governmental agencies, community groups, various business, professional, educational and regulatory organizations, and with property owners, developers, contractors, and the public
• City and mandated safety rules, regulations, and protocols
• Techniques for providing a high level of customer service by effectively serving the public, vendors, contractors, and City staff
• The structure and content of the English language, including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar
• Modern equipment and communication tools used for business functions and program, project, and task coordination, including computers and software programs relevant to work performed

ABILITY TO

• Interpret planning and zoning programs to the general public; identify and respond to issues and concerns of the public, City Council, and other boards and commissions
• Read plans and specifications and conduct effective site visits
• Assess, monitor, and report environmental impact on and of various City programs and services
• Analyze site design, terrain constraints, land use compatibility, utilities, and other urban services
• Conduct routine research projects, evaluate alternatives, and make sound recommendations
• Interpret, apply, explain, and ensure compliance with applicable Federal, State, and local laws, rules, regulations, policies, and procedures
• Read and understand technical drawings and specifications
• Perform mathematical and planning computations with precision
• Effectively represent the department and the City in meetings with governmental agencies, community groups, and various business, professional, and regulatory organizations and individuals
• Coordinate assigned activities with other City departments and agencies as required
• Direct the work of contract consultants
• Make sound, independent decisions within established policy and procedural guidelines
• Organize and prioritize a variety of projects and multiple tasks in an effective and timely manner; organize own work, set priorities, and meet critical time deadlines
• Use tact, initiative, prudence, and independent judgment within general policy, procedural, and legal guidelines
• Effectively use computer systems, software applications relevant to work performed, and modern business equipment to perform a variety of work tasks
• Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing, using appropriate English grammar and syntax
• Establish, maintain, and foster positive and effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

When assigned to an office environment, must possess mobility to work in a standard office setting and use standard office equipment, including a computer; vision to read printed materials and a computer screen; and hearing and speech to communicate in person and over the telephone; ability to stand and walk between work areas may be required. Finger dexterity is needed to access, enter, and retrieve data using a computer keyboard or calculator and to operate standard office equipment. Positions in this classification occasionally bend, stoop, kneel, reach, push, and pull drawers open and closed to retrieve and file information. Employees must possess the ability to lift, carry, push, and pull materials and objects averaging a weight of 25 pounds.

When assigned to field inspection, must possess mobility to work in changing site conditions; possess the strength, stamina, and mobility to perform light to medium physical work; to sit, stand, and walk on level, uneven, or slippery surfaces; to reach, twist, turn, kneel, and bend, to climb and descend ladders; and to operate a motor vehicle and visit various City sites; vision to inspect site conditions and work in progress. The job involves fieldwork requiring frequent walking in operational areas to identify problems or hazards, with exposure to hazardous materials in some site locations. Employees must possess the ability to lift, carry, push, and pull materials and objects averaging a weight of 40 pounds, or heavier weights, in all cases with the use of proper equipment and/or assistance from other staff.

ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS

Employees work in an office environment with moderate noise levels, controlled temperature conditions, and no direct exposure to hazardous physical substances. Employees may work in the field and occasionally be exposed to loud noise levels, cold and hot temperatures, inclement weather conditions, road hazards, vibration, mechanical and/or electrical hazards, and hazardous physical substances and fumes. Employees may interact with upset staff and/or public and private representatives in interpreting and enforcing departmental policies and procedures.

Supplemental Information

APPLICATION PROCEDURE

A City application form and resume must be submitted online. Applicants can apply online at www.murrietaca.gov.

SELECTION PROCESS

Candidates must clearly demonstrate through their application materials that they meet the employment standards outlined above. All properly completed applications will be reviewed, and the most qualified candidates will be invited to continue in the selection process.

The examination process may include a combination of appraisal interviews, performance tests, and writing exercises designed to evaluate the candidates skills, training, and experience.

Successful candidates will be placed on an eligibility list. The City reserves the right to merge eligibility lists as needed. Final selection is contingent upon successful completion of all required pre-employment requirements.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

The City of Murrieta is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment. All employment practices such as recruitment, selection, and promotions are administered in a manner designed to ensure that employees and applicants for employment are not subjected to discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age (over 40), marital or veteran status, genetic information, gender identity, gender expression, medical condition, disability, or any other basis that is inconsistent with federal, state or local laws.

THE COMMUNITY

Located just north of San Diego County, the City of Murrieta is home to approximately 120,000 people. Central to all of Southern California, residents of Murrieta live in one of the safest cities in the U.S. With top-ranked schools, 53 parks, and 1,300 acres of parks, trails, and open space, it is consistently ranked the top place to live in SW Riverside County. With a dynamic business environment, one of the lowest unemployment rates in the state, and a high median income. Murrieta offers its residents an exceptional quality of life in an engaged and connected community.

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Organization: Murrieta Supervisors Association

Adopted: September 2018

THE CITY OF MURRIETA ORGANIZATIONAL VALUES

Integrity

We are ethical, honest, and fair in all we do.

Public Service

We deliver responsive and caring service to our community, customers, colleagues, and region.

Professionalism

We exemplify professionalism through our knowledge, accountability, initiative, and dedication.

Teamwork

We thrive in a positive work environment noted for collaboration, support, diversity, and balance.

Leadership

We demonstrate leadership, guide stewardship of resources, and cultivate a vision for the future.

MURRIETA SUPERVISORS ASSOCIATION

The following is a summary of the provided benefits to full-time employees in the represented unit. For further information, please refer to the units Salary Resolution or Memorandum of Understanding.

• RETIREMENT: The City participates in the California Public Employees Retirement System (CalPERS).

• Tier 1 (Classic Members hired prior to 12/30/2012)

• Formula: 2.7% at 55

• Member Contribution: 8.0% of compensation

• Final Compensation: Highest twelve (12) consecutive month period

• Tier 2 (Classic Members hired on or after 12/30/2012)

• Formula: 2.0% at 60

• Member Contribution: 7.0% of compensation

• Final Compensation: Highest thirty-six (36) consecutive month period

• Tier 3 (New Members / PEPRA)

• Formula: 2.0% at 62

• Member Contribution: 50% of normal cost (currently 8.0% of compensation)

• Final Compensation: Highest thirty-six (36) consecutive month period

• MEDICAL INSURANCE: The City contributes up to $1,936.28 per month toward medical insurance for employees and their eligible dependents.

• RETIREE MEDICAL INSURANCE: Please refer to the units Memorandum of Understanding for details.

• DENTAL INSURANCE: The City pays 100% of the premium for the employee and their eligible dependents.

• VISION INSURANCE: The City pays 100% of the premium for the employee and their eligible dependents.

• LIFE INSURANCE: The City pays for 100% of the premium for a life insurance policy equal to one time an employees base salary, up to a maximum of $150,000. Additional life insurance is available.

• SHORT-TERM DISABILITY INSURANCE: The City pays 100% of the premium for the employee.

• LONG-TERM DISABILITY INSURANCE: The City pays 100% of the premium for the employee.

• DEFERRED COMPENSATION: Employees are eligible to participate in a deferred compensation plan through Nationwide Retirement Solutions. The City contributes a matching amount to the employees account on a dollar-for-dollar basis, not to exceed $2,200 per year.

• SPANISH LANGUAGE PAY: 2.5% of base pay for eligible members of the association who are fluent in Spanish. Eligibility is based on business necessity.

Note: The provisions of this summary do not constitute an expressed or implied contract. Any provision contained in this summary may be modified or revoked without notice. The types and levels of employee benefits provided, including City contributions toward benefit costs, are subject to change as a result of periodic contract negotiations between the recognized employee association and the City of Murrieta.

01

Do you possess a bachelors degree or higher from an accredited college or university with major coursework in urban planning, community development, business or public administration or a related field?

• Yes
• No

02

This position requires three (3) years of professional experience in planning, zoning , and related community development activities. How many years of professional experience do you possess working in planning as stated above?

• No experience
• Less than three (3) years
• More than three (3) years but less than five (5) years.
• More than six (5), but less than seven (7) years
• More than seven (7), but less than nine (9) years
• More than eight (9) years

Required Question

Employer City of Murrieta

Address 1 Town Square

Murrieta, California, 92562

Phone (951) 304-2489

Website http://www.MurrietaCA.gov