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Community Development Planning Jobs in California

City of Ukiah, CA

Chief Planning Manager

Ukiah, CA · On-site

$115K - $147K/yr

Community Development Division: Planning Opening Date: 08/14/2026 DESCRIPTION Negotiable Signing Bonus, Housing Incentive, Relocation Incentive, and Vacation Bank / Sick Leave Transfer Anticipated ...

City of Ukiah

Chief Planning Manager

Ukiah, CA

$115K - $147K/yr

Under general direction of the Director of Community Development, the Chief Planning Manager organizes, plans, coordinates and manages the activities of the Planning Division, including both current ...

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How much do community development planning jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for community development planning in California is $72,057.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,600.00 and $76,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is community development planning?

Community development planning is a process that involves assessing the needs of a community and creating strategic plans to improve its social, economic, and physical well-being. Professionals in this field work with local stakeholders, government agencies, and organizations to develop initiatives and projects that address issues such as housing, infrastructure, economic growth, and public services. The goal is to foster sustainable development that benefits all members of the community while encouraging participation and inclusion. Community development planners often use data analysis, policy research, and public engagement to guide their decisions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a community development planner, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Community Development Planner, you need expertise in urban planning, community engagement, and policy analysis, typically supported by a bachelor’s or master’s degree in urban planning or a related field. Familiarity with GIS software, zoning regulations, and planning frameworks is often required, along with certifications like AICP. Strong interpersonal communication, problem-solving, and facilitation skills help build consensus and foster collaborative relationships with diverse stakeholders. These skills ensure effective project implementation, sustainable community growth, and positive stakeholder outcomes.

What are the most common challenges faced by professionals in community development planning, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Community Development Planning often encounter challenges such as balancing the diverse needs of stakeholders, securing adequate funding, and navigating regulatory requirements. Addressing these challenges requires strong communication skills to facilitate community engagement, creative problem-solving to develop feasible project proposals, and staying informed about relevant policies and grant opportunities. Collaborating closely with local government officials, non-profit organizations, and residents helps ensure that development plans are both practical and broadly supported.

What is the difference between Community Development Planning vs Urban Planning?

AspectCommunity Development PlanningUrban Planning
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Urban Planning, Community Development, or related fieldsBachelor's or Master's in Urban Planning, Geography, or related fields
Work EnvironmentLocal government agencies, non-profits, community organizationsMunicipal governments, private consulting firms, government agencies
Industry UsageFocuses on community needs, social programs, and local development projectsFocuses on city-wide land use, zoning, and infrastructure planning

Community Development Planning and Urban Planning share overlapping skills and work environments, but differ in scope. Community Development Planning emphasizes local community needs and social programs, while Urban Planning focuses on city-wide land use and infrastructure. Both roles are vital in shaping sustainable, livable communities but serve distinct functions within the planning industry.

How do you become a community development planner?

To become a community development planner, typically a bachelor's degree in urban planning, public administration, or a related field is required. Gaining experience through internships or entry-level positions and obtaining professional certification, such as the American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP), can enhance career prospects. Strong skills in project management, communication, and knowledge of local regulations are also important.

What jobs can you do with community development planning?

Community development planning prepares individuals for roles such as urban planner, community development specialist, housing coordinator, or policy analyst. These jobs involve designing and implementing programs to improve neighborhoods, managing public projects, and collaborating with government agencies, often requiring skills in GIS, project management, and community engagement.

What are popular job titles related to Community Development Planning jobs in California?

For Community Development Planning jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Community Development Planning jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Community Development Planning jobs in California are:

Community Development Planning jobs near you
Infographic showing various Community Development Planning job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $72,057 per year, or $34.6 per hour.

Chief Planning Manager

Ukiah, CA • On-site

City of Ukiah, CA
See more jobs at City of Ukiah, CAexternal

$115K - $147K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago

Job description

Salary : $115,564.80 - $147,492.80 Annually
Location : City Hall, Ukiah, CA
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 2026-41
Department: Community Development
Division: Planning
Opening Date: 08/14/2026
DESCRIPTION
Negotiable Signing Bonus, Housing Incentive, Relocation Incentive, and Vacation Bank / Sick Leave Transfer
Anticipated addition of a new salary step effective 9/27/26, resulting in a 5% increase to the salary range.
Recruitments posted as "Continuous" are subject to close at any time following an initial two-week posting period. Upon closing, the applications received will be screened and notices will be sent to the applicants regarding the status of their application.
Under general direction of the Director of Community Development, the Chief Planning Manager organizes, plans, coordinates and manages the activities of the Planning Division, including both current and long-range planning. This position also manages the Division budget; directly supervises junior professional planning staff; coordinates major planning and development projects; manages and supervises land use and environmental planning activities; performs complex and difficult administrative and technical planning; and performs other related duties as assigned.
Distinguishing Characteristics:
The Chief Planning Manager is the most senior classification in the Planner series and is differentiated from the Planning Manager classification in the supervisory and managerial authority exercised, as well as responsibility to prepare the Division budget. The Chief Planning Manager works with the Community Development Director in developing innovative ideas and the long-range planning vision for the City, including proactive styles of new planning, research, and analysis. The Chief Planning Manager is also responsible for monitoring work flow, timelines and delivery of services; conducting planning research, analysis, and conflict resolution on projects of planning issues having a high degree of complexity and public interest; and creatively thinking through and suggesting solutions to complicated planning issues, including those of a regional nature. Assignments may be broad in scope and expected to be carried out with a significant degree of latitude and independence.
JOB REQUIREMENTS
These examples are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work performed in positions allocated to this class. The examples of work performed are neither restricted to nor all-encompassing of the duties to be performed under this job title.
  • Coordinates the work of consultants, City departments, citizen groups and others on planning projects and programs.
  • Supervises subordinate professional planning staff, including planning and evaluating performance; establishing performance requirements and personal development targets; regularly monitoring performance and providing coaching for performance improvement.
  • Administers, reviews and proposes changes to zoning, subdivision and other pertinent ordinances;
  • Prepares staff reports for Council, Commission and Committee agendas and attends meetings
  • Performs complex and difficult current and/or long-range planning work.
  • Prepares detailed work programs. Monitors, tracks, reports and is accountable for work flow activities.
  • Initiates, analyzes, and interprets policies for the physical, social and economic development of the City of Ukiah.
  • May provide conflict resolution in regards to community and regional issues having a high degree of complexity and public interest.
  • Performs assignments involving high level contact with public officials and civic leaders requiring independent, responsible and mature judgment and discretion in the handling of sensitive and confidential matters.
  • May assist with administration of state and federal grant programs as needed.
  • Identifies problems and recommends solutions.
  • Develops public informational and/or educational materials. Prepares staff reports and studies on a variety of planning, and development issues and projects, including California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) study documents.
  • Utilizes a variety of computer software programs to prepare reports, maps, diagrams, graphs and other material related to planning studies.
  • Prepares Director Determinations and other interpretative regulatory determinations on behalf of the Community Development Director.
  • As assigned, may serve as acting Zoning Administrator.
  • As assigned, may serve as acting Community Development Director in the absence of the Community Development Director.
  • Other duties as assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Knowledge of:
  • Principles, practices and trends in one or more fields of planning, such as current, advance, affordable housing, environmental, transportation, regional and/or sustainable development planning.
  • Intensive practices and trends in urban planning and zoning policy development and analysis.
  • Laws, ordinances and regulations pertaining to municipal planning, zoning, subdivisions, open spaces, housing, and environmental quality.
  • Legislative developments affecting regional and advanced planning including federal, state and local laws and ordinances.
  • Economic analysis as applied to urban planning.
  • Sources of research, technical and professional publications, state and federal data and commercial documents and organizations providing pertinent planning information.
  • Techniques and processes involved in zoning administration, principles, practices, and development review; preparation and implementation of long-range and General Plans; and principles and practices of municipal planning.
  • Principles of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA).
  • Permit requirements of regulatory agencies.
  • Comprehensive knowledge of land use and site planning.
  • Techniques for dealing effectively with a high-level of customer service with the public, vendors, contractors, and City staff, in person and over the telephone.
  • Basic municipal budgeting principals.

Ability to:
  • Actively manage complex and/or controversial projects and complete within applicable time limits.
  • Provide effective management in coordinating programs and projects.
  • Supervise, train, and evaluate assigned staff.
  • Delegate authority and schedule Division work program.
  • Analyze, plan, coordinate, and direct various technical aspects of City planning.
  • Understand architectural plans and possess a basic knowledge of Building Division codes and practices.
  • Maintain professionalism, courtesy and composure, including in difficult situations, and handle disputes and complaints in a calm manner.
  • Conceive, organize, and execute assigned projects with innovation and independence.
  • Effectively relate to a variety of concerned groups in clarifying and resolving problems or conflicts of a sensitive nature and a high degree of difficulty.
  • Think critically, prepare analytical analysis and conduct strategic planning.
  • Establish and maintain cooperative and productive working relationships with the public and staff; work effectively in a team environment.
  • Communicate clearly and concisely, orally and in writing; understand and follow oral and written instructions.
  • Effectively apply technical, social, and political skills to solve problems in a timely manner.
  • Work collaboratively with Community Development personnel and other Departments to assure the provision of comprehensive and coordinated related services.

Minimum Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in urban or regional planning, public administration, architecture, or a related field*; and
  • Eight years of progressively responsible experience*; and
  • At least two of the eight years in a supervisory position.

*An equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential functions of the job as those listed above will also be considered.
Preferred Qualifications:
  • At least two years of municipal planning experience; and
  • At least four years in a supervisory position; and
  • American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) Certification.

Necessary Special Requirements:
Possession of a valid Class C California Driver's License.
SELECTION PROCEDURE
Applications must be filled out completely. Resumes submitted in lieu of completing an application will not be considered. Applications will be reviewed by a screening committee and those applicants who appear to be among the best qualified will be selected for the examination process. This process may include a variety of techniques designed to test applicants' knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the duties and responsibilities of the job. An eligibility list will be established by ranking candidates by their overall score and a selection will be made from the candidates on this list. All employment offers are subject to a City-paid physical examination and a thorough reference and background check.
In accordance with the Immigration Reform Act of 1986, the City must verify, once an employment offer has been made, that all persons have written proof of their right to work in the United States.
In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), if special accommodations are necessary at any stage of the testing process, please notify the Human Resources Department in advance at (707) 463-6244 so your request may be reviewed prior to the occurrence of the test.
The City of Ukiah is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to building a diverse workforce.
Continually working to promote diversity, equity, transparency, and justice through the adoption and implementation of City practices, policies, and procedures.
The City of Ukiah offers a competative benefits package to all full-time employees, including health care, dental, vision, retirement, deferred compensation plans, flexible spending accounts, life insurance, long-term disability, holidays, vacation, and sick leave.
Part-time employees may receive benefits on a pro-rated basis.
To learn more details, contact us at personnel@cityofukiah.com.

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