Principal Planner

Job Description:

Principal Planner

Description

Description

Join the Laguna Beach Planning Team

If you’re a planner who loves design, cares deeply about community, and thrives in a setting where no two projects are alike, Laguna Beach is calling. Help shape the future of Laguna Beach, working on truly distinctive projects in California’s most iconic coastal setting.

In Laguna Beach, planning isn’t just about development—it’s about legacy, craftsmanship, and context. Our city is known for its natural beauty, architectural integrity, and deep sense of place.

From coastal hillside homes to complex infill projects in historic neighborhoods, every application you review will be unique, layered, and held to the highest standards. In this technically rich environment, you’ll have a rare chance to grow as a generalist with deep expertise in:

• Beach and bluff-top development
• Environmental and topographical complexity
• Open space and high fire severity zones
• Historic preservation
• California coastal planning
• Native habitats
• Infill projects
• California housing law

We’re a great match if…

• You're energized by complex, one-of-a-kind projects and see each application as a chance to problem-solve creatively.
  
• You care deeply about design, community and the environment, and want your work to make a lasting impact.
  
• You thrive on collaboration and believe that shared wins, mentoring others and showing up for your team are part of the job.
  

Apply now to be part of the first review! Applications will be accepted on a continuous basis, with the first review on July 25 , 2025.

Examples of Duties

The normal duties for the positions can be found in the job descriptions Principal Planner . These are not to be construed as exclusive or all-inclusive. Other duties may be required and assigned.

Qualifications

Any combination demonstrating the ability to effectively and successfully perform the duties of the position is considered qualifying.

Education: Education equivalent to completion of a four-year degree from an accredited university or college with specialization in urban planning, environmental design, architecture or geography, or a closely related field.

Experience: Eight years of increasingly responsible experience in urban planning in either current or advanced planning.

Supplemental Information

This recruitment will establish an eligibility list that may be used to fill future vacancies in the same or lower classifications.

Application/Selection Process: Applications will be screened carefully, and selected applicants will be invited to participate in the Structured Panel Interview. The appointing hiring authority will further review the job-related qualifications of those deemed eligible for hire before making selection decisions. The selection process may be modified based on the needs of the City.

Pre-employment Process: The selected candidate must successfully pass a fingerprint check with the State Department of Justice, educational and employment verification, and reference check(s).

Why work for Laguna Beach: Laguna Beach is a beautiful coastal city located in Orange County, California, with a vibrant art scene and cultural events. We offer competitive compensation and benefits packages, including City paid health insurance for employees, retirement plans, and paid time off. The City has a strong commitment to its employees, providing opportunities for professional growth and development through training and education programs.

Click here for the link to the MOUs.

Salary:

$108,024.00 - $151,992.00 Annually