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Associate Planner Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Associate Planner

Anaheim, CA · Hybrid

$75K - $110K/yr

Associate Planner - Northern Orange County, CA - Hybrid Interwest Consulting Group was founded in 2002 and has become a leader in providing municipal services to cities and counties throughout the ...

Associate Planner

Ojai, CA · On-site

$43.81 - $53.26/hr

About the Position Under direction, the Associate Planner performs a full range of professional current and advance planning duties, zoning review, environmental analysis, and code enforcement. This ...

Associate Planner

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$75K - $110K/yr

Associate Planner - Northern Orange County, CA - Hybrid Interwest Consulting Group was founded in 2002 and has become a leader in providing municipal services to cities and counties throughout the ...

Associate Planner

Bell, CA · On-site

$78K - $95K/yr

The Associate Planner is the journey level classification in the professional planning series. Incumbents are assigned to, and perform, the full range of planning, zoning, and related functions ...

Associate Planner

Bell Gardens, CA · On-site

$78K - $95K/yr

The Associate Planner is the journey level classification in the professional planning series. Incumbents are assigned to, and perform, the full range of planning, zoning, and related functions ...

Associate Planner

Oakland, CA · On-site

$95K - $125K/yr

Associate Planner Salary: $95,000-$125,000 annually / DOE About: Help Shape the Future of Transportation! Are you passionate about creating smarter, more connected communities through innovative ...

New

The Associate Planner will perform a range of professional and technical planning duties, including conducting analysis, preparing written reports, and delivering oral presentations. This position ...

New

Associate Planner

Hollister, CA · On-site

$89K - $108K/yr

The Associate Planner will perform a range of professional and technical planning duties, including conducting analysis, preparing written reports, and delivering oral presentations. This position ...

New

Associate Planner

Hollister, CA · On-site

$89K - $108K/yr

The Associate Planner will perform a range of professional and technical planning duties, including conducting analysis, preparing written reports, and delivering oral presentations. This position ...

New

Associate Planner

Newport Beach, CA · On-site

$34 - $50/hr

The Associate Planner supports public- and agency-based planning efforts by managing a variety of current and long-range planning projects. This role assists with development review, policy analysis ...

The Associate Planner supports public- and agency-based planning efforts by managing a variety of current and long-range planning projects. This role assists with development review, policy analysis ...

Associate Planner

Santa Barbara, CA · On-site

$34 - $50/hr

The Associate Planner supports public- and agency-based planning efforts by managing a variety of current and long-range planning projects. This role assists with development review, policy analysis ...

Associate Planner

Hollister, CA · On-site

$89K - $108K/yr

The Associate Planner will perform a range of professional and technical planning duties, including conducting analysis, preparing written reports, and delivering oral presentations. This position ...

New

Associate Planner

Salinas, CA · On-site

$34 - $50/hr

The Associate Planner supports public- and agency-based planning efforts by managing a variety of current and long-range planning projects. This role assists with development review, policy analysis ...

The Associate Planner supports public- and agency-based planning efforts by managing a variety of current and long-range planning projects. This role assists with development review, policy analysis ...

Associate Planner

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$34 - $50/hr

The Associate Planner supports public- and agency-based planning efforts by managing a variety of current and long-range planning projects. This role assists with development review, policy analysis ...

The Associate Planner supports public- and agency-based planning efforts by managing a variety of current and long-range planning projects. This role assists with development review, policy analysis ...

IDENTIFYING CHARACTERISTICS The Associate Planner is a journey level Professional Planner. Positions assigned to this class are expected to perform the full range of duties as assigned including ...

Associate Planner

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$95K - $125K/yr

Associate Planner Salary Range: $95,000 - $130,000 annually / DOE This established transportation consulting firm partners primarily with public agencies on traffic analysis, parking studies ...

Reporting to the PPS Senior Production Planner, the Associate Planner is responsible for supporting the PPS team by owning and administering the following duties and responsibilities: generation of ...

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Showing results 1-20

Associate Planner information

See California salary details

$38K

$77.3K

$106.6K

How much do associate planner jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate planner in California is $77,258.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $63,200.00 and $90,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an associate planner do?

An Associate Planner typically assists in the development and implementation of plans for land use, urban development, or organizational projects. They conduct research, analyze data, prepare reports, and help coordinate public meetings or stakeholder consultations. Working under the supervision of senior planners, they support projects related to zoning, community development, or resource management. This role often serves as an entry-level position for those pursuing a career in planning, offering valuable experience in both public and private sector environments.

What are some common challenges faced by associate planners when balancing multiple projects with tight deadlines?

Associate Planners often manage several projects simultaneously, which can make prioritization and time management challenging, especially when unexpected changes arise. Juggling competing deadlines requires strong organizational skills and the ability to communicate effectively with both internal teams and external stakeholders. Utilizing project management tools and regularly updating supervisors on progress can help mitigate these challenges. As you gain experience, you'll develop strategies to efficiently handle shifting priorities and tight timelines.

Is being an associate planner a good career?

An associate planner is an entry-level position in urban or regional planning that offers opportunities to develop skills in data analysis, zoning, and community engagement. It can lead to advancement into senior planning roles and often requires relevant education and certifications. The career provides a stable work environment with potential for professional growth in the planning field.

How to become an associate planner with no experience?

To become an associate planner with no experience, candidates should focus on obtaining a relevant bachelor's degree such as urban planning, geography, or environmental studies. Gaining skills in GIS software, data analysis, and project management through coursework or internships can improve prospects, and entry-level positions often require strong communication and organizational skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an associate planner, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Associate Planner, you need a solid understanding of urban planning principles, data analysis, and land use regulations, usually supported by a degree in urban planning or a related field. Familiarity with GIS software, Microsoft Office Suite, and planning-specific databases is commonly required, and AICP certification can be advantageous. Strong communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills help you effectively collaborate with stakeholders and present findings. These competencies are crucial for ensuring sound planning decisions, regulatory compliance, and successful project outcomes.

What does associate planner mean?

An associate planner is an entry-level or early-career professional responsible for supporting planning projects, analyzing data, and assisting senior planners in developing strategies. The role often requires strong organizational skills, proficiency with planning software, and knowledge of relevant regulations or standards. It serves as a stepping stone toward more senior planning positions.

What are the most commonly searched types of Planner jobs in California?

The most popular types of Planner jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Associate Planner jobs?

Cities in California with the most Associate Planner job openings:

Infographic showing various Associate Planner job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $77,258 per year, or $37.1 per hour.

$75K - $110K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 25 days ago


Job description

Associate Planner - Northern Orange County, CA - Hybrid

Interwest Consulting Group was founded in 2002 and has become a leader in providing municipal services to cities and counties throughout the Western United States. We currently have over 400 employees specializing in public works, building and safety, planning, engineering, and real estate acquisition.  In our 20+ years, we have attracted the best in our professions and are positioned for continued growth and success.  

We are currently seeking a talented and experienced Associate Planner to join our team of professionals.  This position offers great opportunity for dynamic, motivated self-starters to work on a variety of work assignments.  You’ll be a member of our highly respected team of professionals with a full complement of resources to support you and exciting projects to keep you challenged. 


Associate Planner duties and responsibilities include but are not limited to the following:
  • Processing minor to moderately complex development applications
  • Assist with CEQA compliance for development applications and agency projects
  • Provide general support to public agency planning departments
  • Conduct research and support our advance planning team with preparing zoning code updates and planning studies

We are looking for individuals who:
For any position at Interwest, a positive outlook and commitment to great customer service are mandatory. Experience working in California public agency planning departments is required.
Education:
  • Graduation from a recognized College or University with a bachelor’s degree in planning, landscape architecture, public administration, geography, architecture, civil engineering, environmental sciences, or a closely related field.
  • Associate planner 3+ years' experience.
Salary Range: $75,000 - $110,000

Benefits include health, dental, vision, life, and disability insurances, paid holidays, paid time off, matching 401K Plans, wellness programs and more. SAFEbuilt is committed to Career Progression through paid training and step increases for additional certifications and licenses.

More about Interwest: https://interwestgrp.com/  

Interwest Consulting Group is a municipal consulting firm focused on providing thoughtful, tailored solutions that build thriving communities. Founded in 2002, Interwest provides City Engineering, Building Code Compliance, City Planning, Traffic Engineering, Capital Project Delivery and Real Estate Acquisition throughout CA and NV.  Interwest joined the SAFEbuilt family in 2020.

More About SAFEbuilt: http://safebuilt.com/