What are the responsibilities and job description for the Assistant, Associate or Senior Planner position at Precision Civil Engineering?
Planner (Assistant, Associate, or Senior)
Precision Civil Engineering, Inc. (PCE) is seeking a motivated Planner at the Assistant, Associate, or Senior level to join our growing Planning Division. Our work spans both private development and public agency clients, providing a unique opportunity to gain diverse experience across entitlements, policy planning, and environmental review.
We are a small but expanding team that values collaboration, responsiveness, and practical problem-solving. This role offers the opportunity to grow within a laid-back but hard-working environment where staff are empowered and client service is a priority.
FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Assistant / Associate Planner
• Provide support to a team of planners and engineers on a variety of projects
• Assist with data collection, research, and preparation of planning documents
• Conduct field work, including parcel data collection and land use research
• Prepare maps, exhibits, and planning reports of limited to moderate complexity
• Produce basic sketches and renderings
• Assist at meetings, including coordination and note-taking
• Support general office functions such as data entry, file management, and customer service
Associate Planner (in addition to above)
• Prepare and process development applications, including site plans, use permits, and rezonings
• Conduct planning analysis and prepare staff reports or technical documents
• Coordinate with clients, agencies, and internal staff
• Assist with CEQA review, including preparation of exemptions and initial studies
• Support project management tasks, including scheduling and coordination
Senior Planner (in addition to above)
• Manage complex planning projects, development applications, and entitlement strategies
• Lead private development projects and serve as a client advocate
• Prepare and review CEQA documents, including exemptions, IS/MNDs, EIRs, and addenda
• Oversee preparation of general plan amendments, rezonings, annexations, and policy documents
• Develop project budgets and manage scope, schedule, and deliverables
• Prepare proposals and assist with RFP/RFQ responses
• Present to Planning Commissions, City Councils, and other decision-making bodies
• Supervise and mentor junior staff
• Provide high-level planning support to public agency clients
KNOWLEDGE
• Understanding of planning principles and land use processes (increasing with level)
• Familiarity with California planning framework and CEQA (Associate/Senior)
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and general computer applications
• GIS and CAD experience is a plus
SKILLS
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Strong research and analytical abilities
• Ability to manage multiple assignments and meet deadlines
• Collaborative team player with the ability to work independently
• Flexible and adaptable across a variety of project types
• Project management and leadership skills (Senior level)
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Assistant Planner
• Relevant coursework and interest in the planning field required
• Working toward or completion of a degree in Urban Planning, Geography, Political Science, or related field
• No experience required
Associate Planner
• Bachelor’s degree in Urban Planning, Geography, Political Science, or related field
• 1–3 years of relevant planning experience
Senior Planner
• Bachelor’s degree in Urban Planning, Geography, Political Science, or related field
• 3 years of professional planning experience
• Master’s degree and/or AICP certification preferred, but not required
WORK ENVIRONMENT AND BENEFITS
• Full-time position based in Fresno, Merced or Visalia
• Paid time off
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Life insurance and disability benefits
• 401(k) with company match
• Onsite gym
• Quarterly and annual company events