Senior Planner

Senior Planner

Salary

$134,219.00 - $171,301.00 Annually

Location

Sunnyvale, CA

Job Type

Full-Time

Job Number

26-00124

Department

Community Development

Division

Planning

Opening Date

09/30/2026

Closing Date

10/28/2026 5:00 PM Pacific

• Description
• Benefits
• Questions

Description

.

The final filing date is Wednesday, October 28, 2026, by 5:00 pm or after receiving 100 qualified applications, whichever is first.

The City of Sunnyvale is a dynamic, prohousing-designated city committed to excellent customer service, governance, and planning practices. The City is filling a vacancy at the Senior Planner level currently on the Policy Planning team; this recruitment will also establish a list for potential vacancies for other sections of the Planning team. This position offers an excellent opportunity to work on strategic projects enhancing the future of Sunnyvale with the Policy Planning team responsible for advancing City Council land use policy priorities and initiatives; Housing Element implementation; area plan development; Comprehensive Plan development and amendments; assessment of changing state laws; and engagement with regional agencies. The City is seeking a planner with the experience and vision to collaborate on this exciting work.

Under direction of a Principal Planner or Planning Officer, performs complex professional work in current and long-range planning activities including zoning, environmental review, general plan updates, and plan preparation and review; may organize, assign and review the work of assigned personnel; and performs related work as required.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS

The Senior Planner classification is the advanced journey-level in the Planner series. Incumbents assigned to this classification are responsible for more complex projects and planning project management. This position differs from the lower-level classification of Associate Planner in that the lower class performs more routine planner duties.

Essential Job Functions

(May include, but are not limited to, the following):

• Processes planning applications; reviews and analyzes land use impacts and compliance with local and State regulations and City policies.
• Conducts research and compiles, analyzes and evaluates information related to planning studies, such as demographic, economic, social, environmental, land use and housing data.
• Prepares a variety of technical and administrative reports, documents and correspondence; prepares environmental documents; makes presentations to the Planning Commission, City Council and at public hearings and community meetings.
• Prepares and maintains maps pertaining to zoning, land use and other planning related activities.
• Conducts studies and prepares and presents corresponding reports.
• Evaluates and reviews development plans for compliance; prepares reports, Initial Studies, ordinances, and researches and communicates with applicants, consultants, staff and members of the public.
• Reviews environmental documents and mitigation monitoring programs.
• Prepares standard forms and checklists Initial Studies and Negative Declarations
• Inspects residential, commercial and industrial properties to gather data and assess the possible need for project or plan modifications.
• Researches, conducts and/or analyzes policy and long range planning projects.
• Researches planning issues related to economic development, land use, zoning and environmental concerns.
• Researches and writes special studies including General Plan review and policy study issues.
• Coordinates project reviews with other city departments and outside agencies.
• Receives and responds to inquiries and questions at the front counter, via email and telephone; provides information regarding planning, zoning and the development process to developers, property owners, design professionals, other agencies and City departments.
• Assists in the identification and preparation of grant applications for planning and development projects.
• Represents the Community Development Department at meetings and conferences as assigned.
• Plans, prioritizes and reviews the work of staff assigned to the performance of professional planning activities.
• Develops schedules and methods to accomplish assignments ensuring work is completed in a timely and efficient manner.
• Participates in evaluating the activities of staff, recommending improvements and modifications.
• Provides and coordinates staff training; works with employees to correct deficiencies.
• Coordinates with the City Attorneys Office for legal advice.
• Maintains current knowledge of case law and applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations

WORKING CONDITIONS

Position requires prolonged sitting, standing, walking, reaching, twisting, turning, kneeling, bending, squatting and stooping in the performance of daily activities. The position also requires grasping, repetitive hand movement and fine coordination in using a computer keyboard. Additionally, the position requires near and far vision in reading reports and work related documents and using a computer. Acute hearing is required when providing phone and personal customer service. The need to lift, drag and push files, paper, books and documents weighing up to 25pounds is also required. Some of these requirements may be accommodated for otherwise qualified individuals requiring and requesting such accommodation.

Minimum Qualifications

Experience and Education:

The minimum qualifications for education and experience can be met in the following ways:

(1) a Bachelors degree from an accredited college or university in urban planning, architecture or a related field; AND

Five years of city planning experience

OR

(2) a Masters degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in urban planning, architecture or a related field; AND

Four years of city planning experience;

Knowledge of:

• Principles and practices of technical and functional supervision and training.
• Principles, objectives, practices and procedures of city and regional planning, urban design and zoning.
• Research and statistical practices as they relate to land use, transportation, zoning and master plan studies.
• Techniques used in the development and maintenance of comprehensive plans, general plans and specific plans.
• Pertinent local, State and Federal laws, ordinances and rules.
• California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA)
• Elements of project review, including architectural and site planning considerations.
• Methods of citizen participation in planning.
• Advanced research methods and techniques.
• Environmental regulations and issues related to the planning process.
• The relationship of land use planning to transportation, housing and other aspects of community development.
• Office methods, procedures, software and equipment.

Ability to:

• Provide technical and functional supervision over assigned staff; effectively train staff.
• Perform the most complex duties related to the performance of professional planning activities.
• Read and understand maps, architectural drawings and plans, and reports.
• Analyze and compile information and determine appropriate course of action.
• Gather and analyze data on land use, population, urban growth patterns, economic and social trends, industrial development and other demographic data used in land use planning for the purpose of preparing and presenting accurate and concise written reports and making presentations at public forums.
• Interpret economic, sociological and statistical data and draw logical conclusions.
• Interpret, apply and explain planning, zoning and City policies, rules, laws and regulations.
• Conduct complex analytical studies involving the collection, compilation and analysis of technical, statistical and economic data, evaluation of alternatives, and development and presentation of sound recommendations.
• Operate a computer using word processing and business software and other office equipment.
• Understand and follow written and oral instructions.
• Communicate effectively, orally and in writing.
• Write staff reports and similar correspondence.
• Establish and maintain and promote positive and effective working relationships with employees, other agencies, public officials and the public.
• Demonstrate initiative and exercise good judgment in the performance of duties.
• Work independently and as a team member; recognize and set priorities and meet deadlines.
• Observe safety principles and work in a safe manner.

Willingness to:

Attend weekend and evening meetings.

Licenses/Certificates:

Possession and continued maintenance of a valid class C California drivers license or the ability to provide alternative transportation as approved by the appointing authority and a safe driving record.

DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS

• Demonstrated experience developing and delivering public presentations.
• Lead or supervisory experience.
• Certification from the American Institute of Certified Planners

Application and Selection Process

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS & PROCESS

The application submitted must meet the minimum qualifications listed in the job description in order to move forward in the recruitment process with the City of Sunnyvale. The information provided in the Work Experience, Education, and Certificates/Licenses sections of the application will be used to determine if the application meets the minimum qualifications. A resume, employment history provided elsewhere in the application, or other attachments will not be accepted in lieu of the completed application.

Note: The minimum qualifications for experience are based on full-time experience (40 hours per week). Experience included in the Work Experience section of the application is calculated to the full-time equivalent (hours are pro-rated if less than 40 hours/week). Volunteer experience is not considered qualifying experience.

If you are interested in this opportunity, please submit a City of Sunnyvale employment application and responses to the supplemental questions to the Department of Human Resources by Wednesday, October 28 at 5:00pm or after receiving 100 qualified and complete applications, whichever is first.

Candidates are asked to fully describe any training, education, experience, or skills relevant to this position. Electronic applications may be submitted online through the Citys employment page at Sunnyvale.ca.gov and click on JOBS. Late or incomplete applications will not be accepted.

EXAM PROCESS

Applications will be competitively screened based on the minimum qualifications of this position. Based upon a review of the application materials, the most qualified candidates will be invited to participate in the oral examination process scheduled for Wednesday, November 18, 2026. (Note: The examination process may be changed as deemed necessary by the Director of Human Resources.)

SELECTION PROCESS

Those candidates that receive a passing score on the examination will be placed on an eligibility list for up to one year, in accordance with the Citys Civil Service Rules and Administrative Policies. Top candidates on the eligibility list will be invited to participate in an in-person selection interview with the department tentatively scheduled for the week of November 30.

Any candidate that is selected by the hiring department will be required to successfully complete a pre-employment process, which may consist of a background history check, as well as a medical exam(s) administered by a City selected physician(s) before hire. Prior to starting work, all newly-hired employees will be fingerprinted to check conviction history. A conviction history will not necessarily disqualify an applicant from appointment; however, failure to disclose conviction history will result in refusal of employment or termination. Positions which are covered by the Department of Transportation regulations are required to submit to a pre-employment drug test and to random drug and alcohol testing.

INFORMATION ABOUT PROOF OF EDUCATION

Any successful candidate, selected by the hiring department will be required to submit proof of education (i.e. original copy of the diploma or college/university transcripts). A candidate with education obtained outside the United States must have education records evaluated by a credential evaluation service at the candidates expense to determine its equivalency in the United States. Candidates may utilize any third-party agency for the evaluation. If you search 'education equivalency verification' or similar online, you will obtain results for agencies that provide this evaluation service.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Positions in this job classification are represented by the Sunnyvale Employees Association (SEA).

For assistance on how to fill out your job application, watch the following video:

• How to Apply for a City of Sunnyvale Job- YouTube (5:13)

The information contained within this announcement may be modified or revoked without notice and does not constitute either an expressed or implied contract.

The City of Sunnyvale is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants for all job openings will be considered without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, disability, veteran status, or any other consideration made unlawful under any federal, state, or local laws. The City of Sunnyvale is committed to offering reasonable accommodations to job applicants with disabilities. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, please contact us at (408) 730-7490 or recruitments@sunnyvale.ca.gov.

Summary of Sunnyvales Employees Association SEA

Notice of CFRA (California Family Rights Act) Rights and Obligations

01

Instructions for completing the Supplemental Questionnaire: The following supplemental questions constitute an examination. Responses are reviewed and rated by Subject Matter Expert(s). The supplemental question examination determines the most qualified candidates to move forward in the recruitment process. The responses to the supplemental questions should be specific, thorough and must be reflected in the Work Experience, Education, and Certificates/Licenses sections of the application. Please note the information provided in the supplemental questions will not be accepted in lieu of the completed application. Incomplete responses, false statements, copying and pasting responses from Artificial Intelligence (AI) programs, and/or entering "See Resume" will result in an incomplete application and/or disqualification from the recruitment process. Note: The minimum qualifications for experience are based on full-time experience (40 hours per week). Experience included in the Work Experience section of the application is calculated to the full-time equivalent (hours are pro-rated if less than 40 hours/week). Volunteer experience is not considered qualifying experience. Please be advised that you will be timed out of this page after 30 minutes. It is recommended to copy the supplemental questions that require text answers into a document that you can save on your computer. Prepare your responses in that document and then copy and paste the responses into the spaces provided. Additionally, please save your work continuously. By checking the Yes response below, I indicate that I have read the instructions for completing the application (located in the job posting) and supplemental questionnaire. In accordance with these instructions, I understand that a completed application and written responses to the supplemental questionnaire are required. I understand the completed application and supplemental question responses will be used to evaluate my qualifications for this position and further identify the most qualified candidates to continue in the recruitment process. Additionally, I certify that I have completed the application and supplemental questionnaire on my own; the information provided accurately reflects my training, education and experience; and I understand the information provided is subject to verification.

• Yes
• No

02

Which of the following best describes your education and city planning experience?

• Bachelors degree from an accredited college or university in urban planning, architecture or a related field; AND Five years of city planning experience.
• Masters degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in urban planning, architecture or a related field; AND Four years of city planning experience.
• None of the above.

03

Please describe how your education and experience meet the qualifications selected above. Include your degree and field of study. For your city planning experience, include the employer(s), job title(s), dates of employment, and a brief description of your relevant duties and responsibilities. If you selected "None of the above," please enter N/A.

04

The following question will be evaluated based on the technical information in the response and the quality of writing. Your response should be between 300-500 words. Please describe a significant planning project you have worked on during your career. Please include the following information: the scope of the project, your role and responsibility in completing the project, and the outcome of this project. If you do not have this experience, please indicate N/A below.

05

The following question will be evaluated based on the technical information in the response and the quality of writing. Your response should be between 300-500 words. Briefly describe your project management experience, including working with other departments/divisions, outside agencies/community groups, and consultants. If you do not have this experience, please indicate N/A below.

Required Question

Employer City of Sunnyvale

Address 456 W. Olive Avenue

Sunnyvale, California, 94086

Phone 408-730-7490

Website https://sunnyvale.ca.gov