What are the responsibilities and job description for the Planner I position at Contra Costa College?
The Position
Bargaining Union: International Federation of Professional & Technical Engineers, Local 21
Why join the Contra Costa Department of Conservation and Development?
DCD is headed by a Director, and within DCD there are five (5) divisions under a Senior Deputy Director, Deputy Director, or Assistant Deputy Director: 1) Current Planning; 2) Policy Planning 3) Building Inspection Services; 4) Business and Information Services, and 5) Housing and Community Improvement. DCD’s main office is located in Martinez. DCD has a total staffing of approximately 175 positions serving the entire County of Contra Costa.
The Contra Costa County Conservation and Development Department is seeking qualified individuals to fill one (1) vacancy for the position of Planner I.
The GIS Planner I is an entry-level professional planning position within the GIS Group of the Department of Conservation & Development. This role combines land use planning and spatial analysis to support general plan implementation, development review, environmental analysis, and policy development across multiple planning fields.
Under the general direction of a Principal Planner or Assistant Deputy Director, the GIS Planner I performs professional planning duties involving data collection and analysis, mapping, public contact, and report preparation. Assignments are designed to build foundational professional competence and prepare incumbents for advancement within the planning series.
The GIS Group supports all DCD divisions by developing, managing, analyzing, and presenting spatial and demographic data used in land use decision-making. The team informs policymakers, staff, and the public about land use patterns, environmental constraints, infrastructure systems, service boundaries, demographics, and community trends.
The GIS Group also supports public communication efforts, including interactive web mapping, data visualization, website content support, community outreach materials, and emergency operations mapping.
We Are Looking For Someone Who Is
The eligible list established from this recruitment may be used to fill future openings for up to six (6) months.
Minimum Qualifications
License Required: Possession of a valid California Motor Vehicle Operator's License. Out of state valid motor vehicle operator's license will be accepted during the application process.
Education: Possession of a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with a major in city or regional planning, or a closely related field.
Substitution: Six (6) months of full-time, or its equivalent, experience performing technical planning duties in a planning office may be substituted for the required major.
Desirable Qualifications
The online assessment is tentatively scheduled for March 31, 2026 - April 5, 2026.
The Human Resources Department may change the examination steps noted above in accordance with the Personnel Management Regulations and accepted selection practices.
For recruitment-specific questions, please contact Norma Martinez at Norma.Martinez@hrd.cccounty.us. For any technical issues, please contact the GovernmentJobs’ applicant support team for assistance at 1 855-524-5627.
CONVICTION HISTORY
After you receive a conditional job offer, you will be fingerprinted, and your fingerprints will be sent to the California Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). The resulting report of your conviction history (if any) will be used to determine whether the nature of your conviction conflicts with the specific duties and responsibilities of the job for which you have received a conditional job offer. If a conflict exists, you will be asked to present any evidence of rehabilitation that may mitigate the conflict, except when federal or state regulations bar employment in specific circumstances. Having a conviction history does not automatically preclude you from a job with Contra Costa County. If you accept a conditional job offer, the Human Resources Department will contact you to schedule a fingerprinting appointment.
DISASTER SERVICE WORKER
All Contra Costa County employees are designated Disaster Service Workers through state and local law. Employment with the County requires the affirmation of a loyalty oath to this effect. Employees are required to complete all Disaster Service Worker-related training as assigned, and to return to work as ordered in the event of an emergency.
EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
It is the policy of Contra Costa County to consider all applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ethnicity, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, ancestry, medical condition, genetic information, military or veteran status, or other protected category under the law.
To find more information on Benefits offered by Contra Costa County, please go to https://www.contracosta.ca.gov/1343/Employee-Benefits
01
The purpose of the questionnaire is to provide applicants the opportunity to elaborate on their experience, education, and training for the Planner I position and to assist the HR staff in assessing each applicant's qualifications. Your responses to the questionnaire will be used to better understand your relevant experience, education, and training to determine which applicants will be invited to participate in the next step of the recruitment process. Do not answer any of the questions by indicating "see attached application or see resume."
Which of the following best describes your highest level of education?
If you have a Bachelor's Degree or higher, please state your field of major below. (If this does not apply to you, please enter N/A)
04
Do you have six (6) months of full-time experience performing technical planning duties in a planning office? Transcripts may be requested at any time during the selection process. Candidates are encouraged to attach copies of their transcripts to their application.
If you indicated you have six (6) months of full-time, or its equivalent, experience performing technical planning duties in a planning office, please list the company names and employment dates where you performed these duties below. If you do not have experience, please type N/A.
06
Do you possess any of the experiences below? A. Using planning or GIS tools for mapping, spatial analysis, or land-use visualization B. Creating interactive maps, dashboards, or web-based GIS tools C. Conducting land use, zoning, or development analysis for planning studies or projects D. Analyzing demographic, Census, or housing data E. Preparing maps, reports, or visual materials for planning presentations or reports If yes, please describe your experience in one or more of the following areas above. In your response, include the software used and the employer/company name where you gained this experience. (Max 500 Characters) If no, please enter N/A
07
What planning field assignments are you interested in? Check all boxes that apply.
By checking this box, I am confirming that all statements made in this supplemental questionnaire and on the application are accurate and true; and I understand that misstatements or omissions of material facts will result in being rejected from this recruitment process, or released from future employment with Contra Costa County.
Bargaining Union: International Federation of Professional & Technical Engineers, Local 21
Why join the Contra Costa Department of Conservation and Development?
DCD is headed by a Director, and within DCD there are five (5) divisions under a Senior Deputy Director, Deputy Director, or Assistant Deputy Director: 1) Current Planning; 2) Policy Planning 3) Building Inspection Services; 4) Business and Information Services, and 5) Housing and Community Improvement. DCD’s main office is located in Martinez. DCD has a total staffing of approximately 175 positions serving the entire County of Contra Costa.
The Contra Costa County Conservation and Development Department is seeking qualified individuals to fill one (1) vacancy for the position of Planner I.
The GIS Planner I is an entry-level professional planning position within the GIS Group of the Department of Conservation & Development. This role combines land use planning and spatial analysis to support general plan implementation, development review, environmental analysis, and policy development across multiple planning fields.
Under the general direction of a Principal Planner or Assistant Deputy Director, the GIS Planner I performs professional planning duties involving data collection and analysis, mapping, public contact, and report preparation. Assignments are designed to build foundational professional competence and prepare incumbents for advancement within the planning series.
The GIS Group supports all DCD divisions by developing, managing, analyzing, and presenting spatial and demographic data used in land use decision-making. The team informs policymakers, staff, and the public about land use patterns, environmental constraints, infrastructure systems, service boundaries, demographics, and community trends.
The GIS Group also supports public communication efforts, including interactive web mapping, data visualization, website content support, community outreach materials, and emergency operations mapping.
We Are Looking For Someone Who Is
- Detail-Oriented. You will create reports and general plans which contain data and facts which must be accurate
- Motivated to Develop Professionally. Interested in building knowledge and experience across multiple planning fields
- Regulations-Focused: Able to interpret and apply zoning ordinances, general plan policies, and applicable laws when reviewing permit applications
- Technically Proficient. Comfortable using technical tools and systems to support planning work
- Conducting spatial analysis and mapping studies for written reports
- Contributing to general plans, specific plans ordinance updates, and related projects
- Preparing maps, exhibits, and technical materials for staff reports and presentations
- Advising the public on procedural requirements, applicable policies, and application requests
- Reviewing permit applications for compliance with zoning and planning regulations
- Preparing written correspondence and staff reports on routine planning matters
- Flexible work schedule options! Many employees work a 9/80 schedule or potential hybrid work schedule (subject to departmental needs)
- Exposure to multiple planning fields and complex projects
- Opportunities to develop professional planning expertise
- You will work with a group of outstanding and caring colleagues
- You will work in a supportive and collaborative atmosphere
- You will be expected to manage a high volume of projects with competing deadlines
- You will need to exhibit tact when dealing with the public
- Working within California's complex regulatory framework, including land use law and CEQA
- Ensuring accuracy and defensibility of planning analysis and GIS data under pressure
- Analyzing & Interpreting Data: Drawing meaning and conclusions from quantitative or qualitative data
- Professional & Technical Expertise: Applying technical subject matter to the job
- Industry Monitoring: Grasping the external political, economic, competitive, and social factors affecting the industry
- Legal & Regulatory Navigation: Understanding, interpreting, and ensuring compliance with laws and regulations
- Building & Maintaining Relationships: Establishing rapport and maintaining mutually productive relationships
- Professional Integrity & Ethics: Displaying honesty, adherence to principles, and personal accountability
- Displaying Ownership and Accountability: Holding self and others accountable for measurable high-quality, timely, and cost-effective results
- Thinking & Acting Systematically: Formulating objectives and priorities, and implementing plans consistent with the long-term interests of the organization in a global environment
- Writing: Communicating effectively in writing
- Oral Communication: Engaging effectively in dialogue
- Presentation Skill: Formally delivering information to groups
The eligible list established from this recruitment may be used to fill future openings for up to six (6) months.
Minimum Qualifications
License Required: Possession of a valid California Motor Vehicle Operator's License. Out of state valid motor vehicle operator's license will be accepted during the application process.
Education: Possession of a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with a major in city or regional planning, or a closely related field.
Substitution: Six (6) months of full-time, or its equivalent, experience performing technical planning duties in a planning office may be substituted for the required major.
Desirable Qualifications
- Experience with ArcGIS Pro and ArcGIS Online
- Ability to manage and analyze large datasets using spreadsheets
- Familiarity with SQL, Python, or Arcade for GIS tasks
- Experience working with Census or demographic data and creating dashboards or maps
- Experience developing web-based GIS tools
- Basic website management skills
- Knowledge of ADA digital accessibility requirements
- Application Filing and Evaluation: All applicants must apply online at www.contracostacounty.com/hr and supplemental questionnaire at the time of application, applications will be evaluated to determine which candidates will move forward in the next phase of the recruitment process.
- Online Skills Assessment: Candidates invited to take the online skills assessment will need access to a computer and internet. Topics of this assessment may include but are not limited to: Professional & Technical Expertise, Legal & Regulatory Navigation, Analyzing & Interpreting Data, Thinking & Acting Systematically, Building & Maintaining Relationships, Writing, and Industry Monitoring. (Weighted 100%)
- The multiple-choice assessment will be administered remotely using a computer or mobile device such as a tablet.
- You will need access to a reliable internet connection to take the assessment.
- Departmental Hiring Interview: Tentatively scheduled for TBD
The online assessment is tentatively scheduled for March 31, 2026 - April 5, 2026.
The Human Resources Department may change the examination steps noted above in accordance with the Personnel Management Regulations and accepted selection practices.
For recruitment-specific questions, please contact Norma Martinez at Norma.Martinez@hrd.cccounty.us. For any technical issues, please contact the GovernmentJobs’ applicant support team for assistance at 1 855-524-5627.
CONVICTION HISTORY
After you receive a conditional job offer, you will be fingerprinted, and your fingerprints will be sent to the California Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). The resulting report of your conviction history (if any) will be used to determine whether the nature of your conviction conflicts with the specific duties and responsibilities of the job for which you have received a conditional job offer. If a conflict exists, you will be asked to present any evidence of rehabilitation that may mitigate the conflict, except when federal or state regulations bar employment in specific circumstances. Having a conviction history does not automatically preclude you from a job with Contra Costa County. If you accept a conditional job offer, the Human Resources Department will contact you to schedule a fingerprinting appointment.
DISASTER SERVICE WORKER
All Contra Costa County employees are designated Disaster Service Workers through state and local law. Employment with the County requires the affirmation of a loyalty oath to this effect. Employees are required to complete all Disaster Service Worker-related training as assigned, and to return to work as ordered in the event of an emergency.
EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
It is the policy of Contra Costa County to consider all applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ethnicity, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, ancestry, medical condition, genetic information, military or veteran status, or other protected category under the law.
To find more information on Benefits offered by Contra Costa County, please go to https://www.contracosta.ca.gov/1343/Employee-Benefits
01
The purpose of the questionnaire is to provide applicants the opportunity to elaborate on their experience, education, and training for the Planner I position and to assist the HR staff in assessing each applicant's qualifications. Your responses to the questionnaire will be used to better understand your relevant experience, education, and training to determine which applicants will be invited to participate in the next step of the recruitment process. Do not answer any of the questions by indicating "see attached application or see resume."
- I understand
Which of the following best describes your highest level of education?
- I do not have a GED or High School diploma
- G.E.D. equivalency
- High School Diploma/High School Proficiency Certificate
- Some College
- Associate's Degree
- Bachelor's Degree
- Master's Degree or higher
If you have a Bachelor's Degree or higher, please state your field of major below. (If this does not apply to you, please enter N/A)
04
Do you have six (6) months of full-time experience performing technical planning duties in a planning office? Transcripts may be requested at any time during the selection process. Candidates are encouraged to attach copies of their transcripts to their application.
- Yes
- No
If you indicated you have six (6) months of full-time, or its equivalent, experience performing technical planning duties in a planning office, please list the company names and employment dates where you performed these duties below. If you do not have experience, please type N/A.
06
Do you possess any of the experiences below? A. Using planning or GIS tools for mapping, spatial analysis, or land-use visualization B. Creating interactive maps, dashboards, or web-based GIS tools C. Conducting land use, zoning, or development analysis for planning studies or projects D. Analyzing demographic, Census, or housing data E. Preparing maps, reports, or visual materials for planning presentations or reports If yes, please describe your experience in one or more of the following areas above. In your response, include the software used and the employer/company name where you gained this experience. (Max 500 Characters) If no, please enter N/A
07
What planning field assignments are you interested in? Check all boxes that apply.
- Current Planning
- Advanced Planning
- Transportation Planning
- Water Planning
- Solid Waste and Recycling
- Habitat and Natural Resource Conservation
- Housing and Community Improvement Programs
- Demographics/Geographics Information Systems
- Economic Development
- Sustainability
- Climate and Energy Efficiency Programs
By checking this box, I am confirming that all statements made in this supplemental questionnaire and on the application are accurate and true; and I understand that misstatements or omissions of material facts will result in being rejected from this recruitment process, or released from future employment with Contra Costa County.
- Yes
- Required Question