Job summary
Job post source
This job is directly from the City of Palo Alto
Job overview
The Principal Planner role at the City of Palo Alto leads long-range planning and housing programs, impacting city land use policies and housing initiatives.
Responsibilities and impact
The Principal Planner leads complex projects, supervises and directs the Long-Range Planning team, manages housing programs, and advances City Council priorities while also acting as a project manager when needed.
Experience and skills
Candidates should have supervisory experience, familiarity with state housing requirements, strong writing and public speaking skills, and the ability to manage multiple priorities and build community partnerships.
Work environment and culture
The role emphasizes public service, teamwork in a fast-paced environment, community engagement, and responsiveness to changing priorities.
Company information
The City of Palo Alto's Planning and Development Services Department focuses on land use, housing production, and community development programs.
Team overview
The Principal Planner will lead the Long-Range Planning team, supervising staff and fostering growth and learning.
Job location and travel
The position is located in Palo Alto, California, with no specific mention of remote work or travel requirements.
Application process
Applicants must apply by July 13, 2025, with interviews starting the week of August 18, 2025, and can contact the HR technician for more information.
Unique job features
The job involves managing innovative housing strategies and critical city housing programs like the Community Development Block Grant and Below Market Rate housing program.
Company overview
The City of Palo Alto operates as a municipal government providing essential services such as public safety, utilities, and community development to its residents. They generate revenue primarily through taxes, utility fees, and service charges. Founded in 1894, Palo Alto is known for its role in the development of Silicon Valley and its commitment to sustainability and innovation, including being one of the first cities to offer municipal fiber internet.
How to land this job
Tailor your resume to emphasize leadership in long-range planning, policy development, and housing program management, highlighting any experience with State mandated housing requirements and housing production challenges, especially in the Bay Area context.
Showcase your supervisory skills and ability to manage and motivate teams, including examples of fostering staff growth and handling complex projects as a working manager.
Highlight your strong communication skills, particularly in writing and public speaking, and your ability to engage with diverse stakeholders, including elected officials and community members.
Apply through multiple platforms such as the City of Palo Alto's official government jobs site and LinkedIn to maximize the visibility of your application.
Connect with current employees or leaders in the Planning and Development Services Department on LinkedIn; use ice breakers like commenting on recent City Council initiatives, expressing interest in housing policy innovations, or asking about the team culture and priorities.
Optimize your resume for ATS by including keywords like 'long-range planning,' 'housing program management,' 'Community Development Block Grant,' 'Below Market Rate housing,' 'supervisory experience,' and 'policy implementation' to ensure it passes automated screenings.
Use Jennie Johnson's Power Apply feature to automate tailoring your resume, applying through multiple sites, and identifying LinkedIn connections, allowing you to focus on preparing for interviews and networking effectively.
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