The Organization
The City of Coronado is Accepting Applications for the Position of
Associate Planner
The Department
The Community Development Department promotes orderly growth that enhances the City of Coronado’s economic vitality and complements its unique coastal character. The Department is responsible for reviewing new development proposals to ensure consistency with the City’s General Plan, Local Coastal Program, Zoning Code, Building Codes, and City Council policy. The Department administers the City’s current planning, advance planning, building safety, historic preservation, sustainability, affordable housing, and code enforcement programs.
The Position
The City of Coronado Community Development Department is seeking a qualified and experienced candidate to serve as an Associate Planner in the Planning Division. The selected candidate will primarily be assigned with performing current planning activities, including reviewing and processing discretionary land use applications, providing technical guidance for customers, preparing staff reports, delivering presentations to the Planning and Design Commission and City Council, and performing related tasks as assigned.
The Following Tasks Are Typical For Positions In This Classification. Any Single Position May Not Perform All Of These Tasks And/or May Perform Similar Related Tasks Not Listed Here
- Perform professional level duties in the development, implementation and modification of the City's current and advanced planning and development programs and projects.
- Perform planning and development review of proposed projects including land use applications, zoning ordinance and zoning map amendments, subdivisions, special use or conditional use permits, variances, and related planning issues to ensure compliance with all mandated federal, state and/or City requirements.
- Provide information and assistance to City staff, developers, engineers, architects, consultants, property owners, the general public and external agencies on proposed development projects; conduct meetings to interpret, explain and communicate the City's planning, land use, environmental, historic, design, general plan and zoning requirements, guidelines, standards and regulations; provide recommendations on development proposals; negotiate changes; serve as liaison to facilitate and ensure planning projects and issues are completed or resolved in a timely and efficient manner.
- Review construction plans of private and public development to ensure compliance with zoning regulations and Planning and Design Commission/City Council approvals; perform field and site inspections during and after construction to ensure project is in compliance with approved plans.
- Conduct studies to determine the feasibility or impact of current and proposed development projects; research, compile, analyze, evaluate and present economic, demographic, social, environmental and related statistics and data; research applicable statutes, laws and regulations; prepare and present written and oral reports, graphs, tables and other documents.
- Provide information to the general public on planning, transportation, and zoning regulations for a variety of planning projects; respond to general telephone or counter inquiries; serve as liaison to the general or business community on new or proposed development projects in assigned area; coordinate activities with community groups and conduct public workshops to communicate City goals and objectives for proposed projects.
- Serve as staff on a variety of boards, commissions and committees involved in the development, adoption and implementation of City and regional planning projects; serve as City representative on assigned committees; prepare written reports; conduct oral and visual presentations.
- Meet with City Council or Planning and Design Commission members regarding planning issues; serve as City representative on assigned projects; conduct oral and visual presentations.
- Provide support in the selection and administration of professional consultant contracts; prepare requests for proposal; evaluate and assist in the selection of consultants; oversee and monitor performance to ensure compliance with contractual obligations.
- Prepare a variety of business, technical and statistical correspondence in support of the development process including public hearing notices, staff reports, briefs, agreements, memoranda, meeting agendas, minutes, and related documents for the assigned area; utilize business and specialized software applications or geographic information systems to develop and design maps, charts, and graphics.
- Participate in various departmental administrative functions;
- Attend and participate in professional group meetings; stay abreast of new trends and innovations in the field of urban planning and development.
- Perform related duties and responsibilities as required.
Ideal Candidate
The ideal candidate will possess knowledge of principles and practices of current and advanced urban planning and zoning. The ideal candidate will have high ethical and professional standards, strong organizational skills, the ability to effectively and efficiently prioritize, excellent communication and customer service skills and will have experience interpreting and applying municipal, legislative and government processes as they relate to planning and development projects.
The ideal candidate will also possess a professional history that demonstrates the following necessary leadership competencies and attributes:
- Organizational awareness and ability to anticipate sensitive issues that could impact the community
- Prepare and conduct effective public and committee presentations
- Interpret and apply federal, state, and local laws, codes, standards and regulations governing general plans, zoning, land use, permit processing, subdivisions, CEQA, and related planning functional area
- Strong knowledge of City development review procedures and requirements.
- Methods and techniques of conducting site and field investigations and assessments.
To view the full job description, click on the following link: Associate Planner
Minimum Requirements
Any combination of experience and training that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be:
Experience: At least three (3) years of increasingly responsible professional level planning experience.
Education/Training: Equivalent to a Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university major course work in urban planning or a related field.
Licenses and Certificates: Possession of a valid Class C California Driver's License with a safe driving record.
Examination & Selection Process
Application Review Phase
A completed City of Coronado employment application and resume must be received by the Human Resources Division by 11:59 PM PST on January 18, 2026. Applications will be reviewed on the basis of relevant education, training, and experience.
Examination Process
Applicants who meet the minimum qualifications will be invited to participate in an oral panel interview (100%).
Final Interview
The top candidates will be invited to an interview with the Director of Community Development and Senior Planner.
Candidate Selected
The final candidate will be issued a conditional offer, subject to the successful completion of a background check and medical examination.
Additional Information
All candidates who successfully obtain a 70% or above in each phase of the exam process will be placed on an eligibility list for a period of at least six (6) months. The City of Coronado participates in E-Verify, all new employees are required to submit verification of legal right to work in the United States. The City of Coronado is an equal opportunity employer (EOE). Individuals with disabilities who will require reasonable accommodation in order to participate in any portion of the examination process may voluntarily request the accommodation from the City five working days prior to the requested accommodation. Documentation of the need for the accommodation may be required upon receipt of the request.
Supplemental Information
The Coronado Community
Rich in history, natural beauty, and a charming ocean village atmosphere, Coronado is most deserving of its royal "nickname" - The Crown City.
Surrounded by the Pacific Ocean, Glorietta Bay, and San Diego Bay, this picturesque seaside resort destination is linked to the Southern California coastline and the city of San Diego by the graceful and stately San Diego - Coronado Bridge, and to the south by a narrow strip of land known as the Silver Strand.
This uniquely enchanting city which measures 13.5 square miles, is home to some of the world's most pristine beaches, 18 public parks, an 18-hole golf course, tennis courts, a public pool, and recreation facilities, as well as dedicated bicycle paths.
This vibrant, thriving community welcomes more than 2 million visitors annually to soak up the sun and the sand while enjoying the lush surroundings and village appeal of Coronado. With 15 hotels, including amongst them three world-class resorts, 1,900 hotel rooms, and many highly acclaimed restaurants, this island community has a resident and Navy population of approximately 23,000 as well as a flourishing tourist population. Coronado is also home to Naval Air Station North Island, Coronado (NASNI) Naval Amphibious Base Coronado (NAB), and Silver Strand Training Complex, Coronado, supported by nearly 20,000 military and civilian personnel.
What Coronado Has To Offer
- A rich benefits package contributes to the total compensation value. Benefits include voluntary retirement savings/deferred compensation, tuition reimbursement, group term life, short-term and long-term disability coverage, an employee assistance program, and more.
- The Retirement Benefit Formula for Classic CalPERS hired prior to January 1, 2013, is Members is 3% at 60. The current employee contribution rate is 9.5%.
- The Retirement Benefit Formula for PEPRA CalPERS Members, hired after January 1, 2013, is 2% at 62. The current employee contribution rate is 7.50%.
- As part of ensuring our employees maintain a work/life balance, employees earn 144 hours of Annual Leave per year for the first 5 years. After 5 years, the accrual rate increases.
- The City provides Term Life and Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) insurance in an amount equal to a one-time annual salary or $50,000, whichever is greater, at no cost to the employee.
- The City provides short- and long-term disability insurance equal to 66 2/3% of income. Employees that earn over the maximum benefit of $5,000/month available under the long-term disability plan, have the option to purchase enhanced long-term disability insurance.
- The City provides up to $2,000 per fiscal year for reimbursement of directly related costs of tuition, school fees, books, and required materials for approved courses and professional development opportunities. Student Loan Repayment can be used under this benefit.
- Longevity Pay; bonus at 10 years and every 5 years after.
- Lateral Vacation Service Credit, effective January 1, 2023, employees shall be given credit for prior verifiable public service employment for annual leave accrual rates.
- Access to community pool and gym.
- Valuable experience, training opportunities, and engaged leadership in a supportive community environment.
TO VIEW AN AERIAL TOUR OF OUR CROWN CITY CLICK HERE
ANNUAL LEAVE
Self-Represented employees accrue annual leave (combined vacation and sick leave) at the following rates:
- 0-5 Years of Service: 144 hours per a year
- 5-10 Years of Service: 192 hours per a year
- 10-19 Years of Service: 216 hours per a year
- 20+ Years of Service: 232 hours per a year
Lateral Service Credit
Effective January 1, 2023, employees shall be given credit for prior verifiable public service employment for annual leave accrual rates.
HOLIDAYS
The City observes 12 holidays and provides eight (8) hours of holiday pay to employees on the following days:
- New Year’s Day
- Martin Luther King’s Birthday
- President’s Day
- Memorial Day
- Independence Day
- Labor Day
- Columbus Day
- Veteran’s Day
- Thanksgiving Day
- Day after Thanksgiving
- Christmas Eve
- Christmas Day
In addition to the above specified holidays, employees are credited with two eight (8) hour floating holidays each fiscal year in observance of Lincoln’s Birthday, and Cesar Chavez’s Birthday.
RETIREMENT
Enrollment in the California Public Employees' Retirement System (CalPERS) as follows:
PEPRA Members: 2% at 62
Participants enrolled in the CalPERS Retirement Plan after January 1, 2013, are considered new members. The retirement benefit is based on age at retirement, years of service, and a consecutive 36-month compensation period. Employees currently pay 7.50% (pre-tax) toward the retirement contribution, which for PEPRA members, is determined by CalPERS each fiscal year based upon the actuarial report.
Classic Members: 3% at 60
Participants enrolled in the CalPERS Retirement Plan prior to January 1, 2013, with no break in service or a break in service of less than 6 months are considered Classic Members. The retirement benefit is based on age at retirement, years of service, and the single highest year of compensation. Employees pay 9.5% (pre-tax) toward retirement benefits.
Deferred Compensation
Employees are eligible to join the ICMA-RC 457 deferred compensation plan. This plan allows employees to set aside pre-tax wages for retirement.
Additional Benefits
Cafeteria Benefit Plan
The City provides a Cafeteria Benefit Plan that can be used to help cover the cost of medical, dental, vision, supplemental life insurance, and ancillary benefits. The City participates in the CalPERS Group Health Benefits, which offers several options including HMO and PPO plans. Cafeteria allotment is dependent on medical plan enrollment.
Medical Enrollment Tier
2026 Monthly Cafeteria Allotment
Employee + Family
$2,298
Employee + 1
$2,068
Employee Only or Waive
$1,379
Short-Term & Long-Term Disability
The City provides short-term disability insurance equal to 66-2/3% of income (up to $1,000/week) after a 14-day waiting period. The City provides long-term disability insurance with a monthly benefit of up to $5,000 after a 90-day waiting period. Employees have the option to elect enhanced long-term disability insurance (up to $8,000/month).
Life Insurance
The City provides group term life insurance and AD&D in an amount equal to $50,000 or one times base annual salary, whichever is greater. In addition to the basic group life insurance provided by the City, employees may purchase up to $500,000 of supplemental life insurance. Coverage over $150,000 is subject to approval by the insurance provider. Employees may also elect supplemental life insurance coverage for their spouse/registered domestic partner and child(ren).
Employee Assistance Program
The City provides an Employee Assistance Program (EAP). The EAP provides confidential evaluation and up to 6 free counseling visits for employees, family members, and anyone residing in the home of an employee.
$2,000 Tuition Reimbursement
Each fiscal year $2,000 is available for reimbursement for costs such as tuition, fees, books, and other required materials for approved courses leading to a college degree. Reimbursement is made upon written verification of satisfactory completion of coursework. All expenses in excess of $2,000 will roll over to subsequent years and will be reimbursed up to $2,000 per year so long as the employee remains employed with the City. Student Loan Repayment can be used under this benefit.
Longevity Pay
Bonus at five (5) years of uninterrupted service with the City and every five (5) years after.
Social Security & Medicare
The City participates in Social Security and Medicare.
For more information regarding benefits and retirement
CLICK HERE.
For more information regarding Personal Authorization & Compensation Plan (PACP),
CLICK HERE
01
The supplemental questionnaire is used to further evaluate your experience and education to determine your eligibility for this position. Please answer each question accurately and thoroughly. To be considered for this position, the experience you indicate in your responses to the supplemental questions must also be described, in detail, on the "Work History/Experience" section of your Employment Application. Failure to complete the "Work History/Experience" section of the employment application will result in your application not being considered. Please do not refer your response to your resume. A resume will not be considered in determining your qualifications.
- I have read and acknowledge the instructions stated above.
02
Which of the following best describes your highest level of education?
- High School Diploma/GED
- Associate's Degree
- Bachelor's Degree
- Master's Degree
03
Please Indicate In Which Areas You Have Work Experience
- Zoning plan check
- CEQA compliance review
- Discretionary Use Permit processing
- Coastal Permit processing
- Subdivision map processing
- Design review
- Historic preservation
- None of the Above
04
Please describe your relevant experience as indicated in Question #3. Your response must include the following information: Organization/agency where you gained the experience, period of time performing the duties, position title, and a brief description of the duties performed.
05
How many years of experience do you possess performing advance planning duties including policy and ordinance development, processing code amendments, preparing and amending long-range plans, and drafting procedures?
- Less than 3 years
- 3-5 years
- 5-10 years
- More than 10 years
06
Please describe your experience as it relates to Advance Planning Projects, including preparing or amending policies and ordinances, managing long-range planning projects such as updates to a zoning ordinance, general plan, community plan, specific plans, or preparation of other long-range plans such as a climate action plan. Your response must include the following information: Organization/agency where you gained the experience, period of time performing the duties, position title, and a brief description of the duties performed.
07
Please describe your experience preparing reports and making presentations to various boards, commissions, and councils.
