Job summary
Job post source
This job is directly from City of Laguna Beach
Job overview
The Principal Planner role at City of Laguna Beach involves shaping the future of the city through managing complex, unique planning projects that emphasize design, community, and environmental stewardship.
Responsibilities and impact
The Principal Planner will review diverse and technically complex applications including coastal hillside homes, infill projects, and historic preservation, ensuring high standards and compliance with California coastal and housing laws, while collaborating and mentoring within the team.
Experience and skills
Candidates should have expertise in beach and bluff-top development, environmental and topographical challenges, open space and fire severity zones, historic preservation, California coastal planning, native habitats, infill projects, and California housing law.
Career development
The role offers a rare chance to grow as a generalist with deep expertise in various specialized planning areas within a technically rich environment.
Work environment and culture
The culture values design, community impact, collaboration, mentoring, and problem-solving in a supportive team environment focused on legacy and craftsmanship.
Company information
City of Laguna Beach is known for its natural beauty, architectural integrity, and a strong sense of place, focusing on planning that respects community and environment.
Job location and travel
The position is based in Laguna Beach, California, working in a coastal setting with unique and varied projects.
Application process
Applications are accepted on a continuous basis with the first review on July 25, 2025.
Unique job features
The job offers the opportunity to work on distinctive, one-of-a-kind projects in an iconic coastal city, emphasizing legacy, craftsmanship, and environmental context.
Company overview
The City of Laguna Beach is a coastal municipality in Southern California known for its vibrant arts scene, picturesque beaches, and environmental preservation efforts. The city generates revenue through tourism, local taxes, and various municipal services. Key historical points include its establishment as an artist colony in the early 20th century and its ongoing commitment to maintaining its natural beauty and cultural heritage. Laguna Beach is also recognized for its community-focused initiatives and robust public services.
How to land this job
Position your resume to showcase your expertise in planning complex, unique projects with a focus on coastal hillside development, environmental sensitivity, and historic preservation, aligning with Laguna Beach's values of legacy and craftsmanship.
Highlight your knowledge of California coastal planning, fire severity zones, native habitats, and housing law, emphasizing your ability to navigate technically rich and layered applications.
Apply through multiple platforms including the City of Laguna Beach's official careers page and LinkedIn to maximize your application visibility and ensure you don't miss the first review deadline.
Connect with current planners or team members in the Laguna Beach Planning Department on LinkedIn; open conversations by complimenting the city's commitment to design and community or asking about recent projects they found particularly challenging or rewarding.
Optimize your resume for ATS by incorporating key terms from the job description such as 'coastal hillside homes,' 'environmental complexity,' 'historic preservation,' and 'California housing law' to ensure your resume passes automated screenings.
Use Jennie Johnson's Power Apply feature to automate tailored applications, multi-platform submissions, and LinkedIn networking, freeing you to focus on preparing for interviews and further skill development.
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