What are the responsibilities and job description for the PLANNING ASSISTANT position at City of Torrance?
Description
WE STRONGLY ENCOURAGE APPLICANTS TO READ THE JOB ANNOUNCEMENT
IN ITS ENTIRETY BEFORE SUBMITTING AN APPLICATION FOR THIS POSITION.
____________________________________________________________
The City of Torrance recognizes the principles of diversity and inclusion, and strives to ensure equal opportunities for its workforce, applicants and community members. If you are a person who wants to make a difference, give back to your community, and be a voice for change, apply to the City of Torrance today.
The City of Torrance is recruiting for a Planning Assistant to be part of the Community Development team!
The Department
The Community Development Department delivers a wide variety of programs and services related to planning, building and safety, code enforcement, affordable housing, neighborhood improvement, and historic preservation to help create and maintain more safe, sustainable, and livable neighborhoods.
The Division
The Planning Division is committed to urban planning and design to provide an attractive, safe, and enriching environment that assures a high quality of life. The Planning Division is comprised of two sections: Development Review and Comprehensive Planning.
Development Review is focused on reviewing development plans for conformance with land use policies and standards, and is responsible for processing development applications, conducting environmental review, and responding to inquiries on zoning and land use. Development Review also provides staff support to the Planning Commission and to the City Council.
Comprehensive Planning is focused on developing plans, policies and programs to guide development in Torrance, and is responsible for maintaining the General Plan, conducting special studies related to land use, and collaborating with regional and state agencies. Comprehensive Planning also provides staff support to the Historic Preservation Commission, the Planning Commission, and the City Council.
The Position
Under supervision, the Planning Assistant performs entry-level work in municipal planning, environmental review, redevelopment, and housing. This position compiles, records, and analyzes data for planning and redevelopment activities, conducts field surveys, and performs project site analysis. The Planning Assistant reviews proposals and applications for development, makes recommendations regarding the environmental impact of proposed projects, proposes solutions to planning and redevelopment problems, assists with the administration of contracts with private consultants, and performs related work as required.
For more information about the duties of the position, click here.
QUALIFICATION GUIDELINES
Education And Experience
Graduation from an accredited college or university with a major in city or regional planning, architecture, landscape architecture, geography, public administration, engineering, or closely related field.
Six months of research and writing experience involving municipal planning and/or redevelopment activities specifically related to General Plan and Research, design/development administration or redevelopment and housing activities.
License and/or Certificates
A valid California Driver's License Class 3 is normally required.
Ideal Candidate
Successful Candidates Will Possess The Following
Interested candidates must submit an online City application and supplemental questionnaire at www.TorranceCA.Gov/Jobs. Application submissions will be accepted on a continuous basis until the position is filled. First review of applications will be those received by Sunday, April 25, 2026. If a sufficient number of qualified applications are received by the first review date, there is the possibility that the recruitment may close at that time.
Only Those Candidates Who Best Meet The City And Department's Needs Will Be Invited To Participate In The Examination Process, Which Will Consist Of The Following Components
Oral Interview: Weighted 100% (Tentatively scheduled for May 5, 2026)
Department Interview: Tentatively scheduled for the week of May 18, 2026
The tentative test dates will be based on a sufficient number of qualified applications received by the first review date. If a sufficient number of applications are not received by the first review date, there is the possibility that the test date may change to a later date.
SPECIAL NOTES
Applicants may test for this position only once in a three (3) month period.
Visit www.TorranceCA.Gov to find out more information about our community.
Applicants with disabilities who require special testing arrangements must contact Human Resources prior to the examination date(s). If you have a disability for which you require an accommodation, please contact us at (310) 618-2915 prior to the test date.
As a condition of employment, candidates must pass a background check.
The City of Torrance Conflict of Interest Code requires that employees in this classification file an annual Financial Disclosure Statement. Information about this requirement may be obtained from the City Clerk's office.
The provisions of this announcement do not constitute an expressed or implied contract, and any provisions contained in this announcement may be modified or revoked without notice.
City of Torrance Inclusion Statement
The City of Torrance is a welcoming and culturally-rich community. As a pillar of public service, we strive to be an employer of choice by attracting and retaining a talented workforce where people of diverse backgrounds, cultures, religions, and lifestyles are valued. Our mission is to create an inclusive environment where our staff are empowered to perform at their highest level and contribute towards making a positive impact.
The City is an equal opportunity employer and works towards building collaborative teams from all walks of life without regard to race, color, ethnicity, religion, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, ancestry, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other status protected under federal, state and/or local law. Come join us to help cultivate a workplace that welcomes and celebrates the diversity of our employees!
The City of Torrance offers a range of benefit programs for employees and their eligible dependents. Benefits may include health, dental, vision, and life insurance, as well as a variety of voluntary benefits. Programs and benefits amounts vary and are based on bargaining unit, family size, hire date, plan selection, and number of hours worked.
To view the current benefits for Engineers and Torrance Fiscal Employees bargaining unit, visit:: https://www.torranceca.gov/our-city/human-resources/salary-resolutions#
For additional information about the City's benefits, visit: https://www.torranceca.gov/government/human-resources/employee-services.
RETIREMENT BENEFITS – The City contracts with the California Public Employees Retirement System (CalPERS) to provide retirement benefits. Retirement formula is based on appointment date and membership status with CalPERS.
01
The following supplemental questions will be used to evaluate your qualifications for the position for which you are applying. Resumes are encouraged but will NOT be used in lieu of the application or supplemental questions. Please read each question carefully and provide a thorough and complete response. Do NOT state "see resume" or "see application" to respond to any of the following questions. Failure to respond to all questions will be considered an incomplete application and may not be considered for further processing. Do you understand the foregoing?
I UNDERSTAND that I am required to describe IN DETAIL my qualifying experience in the Work Experience Section of my application. In addition to including my qualifying experience, I UNDERSTAND that I should list ALL JOBS, regardless of duration, including part-time jobs, military service and any volunteer experience during my entire work history. I UNDERSTAND that when providing my work history, ALL DATES should be UPDATED, starting with my most recent job. I UNDERSTAND that answers that I provide to the supplemental questions should be reflected in the Work Experience Section of my application. I UNDERSTAND that if I am currently employed by the City of Torrance, I MUST provide my appropriate job classification/title and provide a description of my duties in the Work Experience Section of my application. I have read these statements in their entirety and understand them completely and to their fullest.
What is your highest level of education completed?
Have you graduated from an accredited college or university with a major in city or regional planning, architecture, landscape architecture, geography, public administration, engineering, or closely related field?
If you answered "yes" to the previous question, list the type of degree you possess and the major/field (i.e. Bachelor's Degree in Engineering). If you answered "No" to the previous question, please type N/A.
06
Indicate the amount of full-time work experience that you have in research and writing experience involving municipal planning and/or redevelopment activities specifically related to General Plan and Research, design/development administration or redevelopment and housing activities.
Do you have any historic preservation experience?
If yes, please describe. (If none, type N/A.)
09
Do you understand that this position requires attendance at Planning Commission and City Council Meetings as needed?
WE STRONGLY ENCOURAGE APPLICANTS TO READ THE JOB ANNOUNCEMENT
IN ITS ENTIRETY BEFORE SUBMITTING AN APPLICATION FOR THIS POSITION.
____________________________________________________________
The City of Torrance recognizes the principles of diversity and inclusion, and strives to ensure equal opportunities for its workforce, applicants and community members. If you are a person who wants to make a difference, give back to your community, and be a voice for change, apply to the City of Torrance today.
The City of Torrance is recruiting for a Planning Assistant to be part of the Community Development team!
The Department
The Community Development Department delivers a wide variety of programs and services related to planning, building and safety, code enforcement, affordable housing, neighborhood improvement, and historic preservation to help create and maintain more safe, sustainable, and livable neighborhoods.
The Division
The Planning Division is committed to urban planning and design to provide an attractive, safe, and enriching environment that assures a high quality of life. The Planning Division is comprised of two sections: Development Review and Comprehensive Planning.
Development Review is focused on reviewing development plans for conformance with land use policies and standards, and is responsible for processing development applications, conducting environmental review, and responding to inquiries on zoning and land use. Development Review also provides staff support to the Planning Commission and to the City Council.
Comprehensive Planning is focused on developing plans, policies and programs to guide development in Torrance, and is responsible for maintaining the General Plan, conducting special studies related to land use, and collaborating with regional and state agencies. Comprehensive Planning also provides staff support to the Historic Preservation Commission, the Planning Commission, and the City Council.
The Position
Under supervision, the Planning Assistant performs entry-level work in municipal planning, environmental review, redevelopment, and housing. This position compiles, records, and analyzes data for planning and redevelopment activities, conducts field surveys, and performs project site analysis. The Planning Assistant reviews proposals and applications for development, makes recommendations regarding the environmental impact of proposed projects, proposes solutions to planning and redevelopment problems, assists with the administration of contracts with private consultants, and performs related work as required.
For more information about the duties of the position, click here.
QUALIFICATION GUIDELINES
Education And Experience
Graduation from an accredited college or university with a major in city or regional planning, architecture, landscape architecture, geography, public administration, engineering, or closely related field.
Six months of research and writing experience involving municipal planning and/or redevelopment activities specifically related to General Plan and Research, design/development administration or redevelopment and housing activities.
License and/or Certificates
A valid California Driver's License Class 3 is normally required.
Ideal Candidate
Successful Candidates Will Possess The Following
- Extensive knowledge of municipal planning principles and practices, including land use, zoning, and redevelopment practices;
- Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to prepare clear reports, present findings, and respond effectively to inquiries from the public, staff, and stakeholders;
- Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with public officials, consultants, developers, and community members, while supporting public processes such as hearings and project reviews;
- Strong time management skills, with the ability to prioritize multiple assignments, meet deadlines, and manage competing project timelines in a fast-paced environment; and
- High level of proficiency in utilizing technology and various types of platforms.
Interested candidates must submit an online City application and supplemental questionnaire at www.TorranceCA.Gov/Jobs. Application submissions will be accepted on a continuous basis until the position is filled. First review of applications will be those received by Sunday, April 25, 2026. If a sufficient number of qualified applications are received by the first review date, there is the possibility that the recruitment may close at that time.
Only Those Candidates Who Best Meet The City And Department's Needs Will Be Invited To Participate In The Examination Process, Which Will Consist Of The Following Components
Oral Interview: Weighted 100% (Tentatively scheduled for May 5, 2026)
Department Interview: Tentatively scheduled for the week of May 18, 2026
The tentative test dates will be based on a sufficient number of qualified applications received by the first review date. If a sufficient number of applications are not received by the first review date, there is the possibility that the test date may change to a later date.
SPECIAL NOTES
Applicants may test for this position only once in a three (3) month period.
Visit www.TorranceCA.Gov to find out more information about our community.
Applicants with disabilities who require special testing arrangements must contact Human Resources prior to the examination date(s). If you have a disability for which you require an accommodation, please contact us at (310) 618-2915 prior to the test date.
As a condition of employment, candidates must pass a background check.
The City of Torrance Conflict of Interest Code requires that employees in this classification file an annual Financial Disclosure Statement. Information about this requirement may be obtained from the City Clerk's office.
The provisions of this announcement do not constitute an expressed or implied contract, and any provisions contained in this announcement may be modified or revoked without notice.
City of Torrance Inclusion Statement
The City of Torrance is a welcoming and culturally-rich community. As a pillar of public service, we strive to be an employer of choice by attracting and retaining a talented workforce where people of diverse backgrounds, cultures, religions, and lifestyles are valued. Our mission is to create an inclusive environment where our staff are empowered to perform at their highest level and contribute towards making a positive impact.
The City is an equal opportunity employer and works towards building collaborative teams from all walks of life without regard to race, color, ethnicity, religion, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, ancestry, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other status protected under federal, state and/or local law. Come join us to help cultivate a workplace that welcomes and celebrates the diversity of our employees!
The City of Torrance offers a range of benefit programs for employees and their eligible dependents. Benefits may include health, dental, vision, and life insurance, as well as a variety of voluntary benefits. Programs and benefits amounts vary and are based on bargaining unit, family size, hire date, plan selection, and number of hours worked.
To view the current benefits for Engineers and Torrance Fiscal Employees bargaining unit, visit:: https://www.torranceca.gov/our-city/human-resources/salary-resolutions#
For additional information about the City's benefits, visit: https://www.torranceca.gov/government/human-resources/employee-services.
RETIREMENT BENEFITS – The City contracts with the California Public Employees Retirement System (CalPERS) to provide retirement benefits. Retirement formula is based on appointment date and membership status with CalPERS.
01
The following supplemental questions will be used to evaluate your qualifications for the position for which you are applying. Resumes are encouraged but will NOT be used in lieu of the application or supplemental questions. Please read each question carefully and provide a thorough and complete response. Do NOT state "see resume" or "see application" to respond to any of the following questions. Failure to respond to all questions will be considered an incomplete application and may not be considered for further processing. Do you understand the foregoing?
- Yes
- No
I UNDERSTAND that I am required to describe IN DETAIL my qualifying experience in the Work Experience Section of my application. In addition to including my qualifying experience, I UNDERSTAND that I should list ALL JOBS, regardless of duration, including part-time jobs, military service and any volunteer experience during my entire work history. I UNDERSTAND that when providing my work history, ALL DATES should be UPDATED, starting with my most recent job. I UNDERSTAND that answers that I provide to the supplemental questions should be reflected in the Work Experience Section of my application. I UNDERSTAND that if I am currently employed by the City of Torrance, I MUST provide my appropriate job classification/title and provide a description of my duties in the Work Experience Section of my application. I have read these statements in their entirety and understand them completely and to their fullest.
- Yes
- No
What is your highest level of education completed?
- High School Diploma or GED
- Some College Coursework
- Associate's Degree
- Bachelor's Degree
- Master's Degree or above
Have you graduated from an accredited college or university with a major in city or regional planning, architecture, landscape architecture, geography, public administration, engineering, or closely related field?
- Yes
- No
If you answered "yes" to the previous question, list the type of degree you possess and the major/field (i.e. Bachelor's Degree in Engineering). If you answered "No" to the previous question, please type N/A.
06
Indicate the amount of full-time work experience that you have in research and writing experience involving municipal planning and/or redevelopment activities specifically related to General Plan and Research, design/development administration or redevelopment and housing activities.
- None
- Less than six months
- More than six months, but less than one year
- More than one year, but less than two years
- More than two years, but less than three years
- More than three years
Do you have any historic preservation experience?
- Yes
- No
If yes, please describe. (If none, type N/A.)
09
Do you understand that this position requires attendance at Planning Commission and City Council Meetings as needed?
- Yes
- No
- Required Question