WHY JOIN #TEAMRC
About The Department
From its earliest days, the City of Rancho Cucamonga was dubbed the "City with a Plan," over the past forty years, we have been creating a world-class community. In late 2021, the City adopted an updated General Plan that clarified the vision for the City's next chapter and an idea that has been simmering for over a decade: that the city can grow, providing new housing and economic opportunities and position itself for the next generation economy, while maintaining its wonderful single-family neighborhoods by focusing new growth onto key corridors and into key nodes.
The Planning Department plays a critical role in achieving the City Council's goals and objectives relative to land use, urban design, and the quality and sustainability of the built environment. The department focuses on development that enhances economic value and opportunities for prosperity and quality of life for all. We work with residents, business owners, developers, and elected officials to build a shared vision for the city's future—fostering both short-term responsiveness and long-term resilience.
Beyond managing individual development proposals, we focus on creating
places, not just projects—thinking holistically about how buildings, streets, public spaces, and natural systems come together to shape the daily lives of people. We believe that thoughtful, people-centered planning can create inclusive, vibrant, and memorable places that foster connection, identity, and pride.
We lead long-range planning initiatives that address housing, transportation, economic development, environmental sustainability, and climate resilience. The department also collects and analyzes data to support policy decisions and ensure equitable growth and development. Through public engagement and cross-departmental coordination, we strive to create livable neighborhoods and meaningful public spaces that reflect the values and aspirations of the community.
Ultimately, our goal is development for people first—building a quality place that attracts and retains residents, visitors, businesses, and talent, while preserving the character and heritage of our city.
What You Will Be Doing Here At Team Rc
As an Assistant Planner, you will play an important role in supporting the City’s planning efforts by assisting with both current development projects and long-range planning initiatives that emphasize people-centered growth. Working under the guidance of senior planning staff, you will review development proposals, research zoning and land use regulations, draft staff reports, conduct research and analysis, and participate in public meetings. Through these efforts, you will contribute to ensuring that development aligns with the City’s goals to enhance economic opportunity, improve quality of life, and reflect the vision outlined in the General Plan.
This position includes regular interaction with the public at the planning counter and through phone and email inquiries. The Assistant Planner will provide clear, professional customer service by answering general questions, assisting with application intake, and helping customers understand planning processes and requirements, while working closely with senior staff to address more complex issues.
Department Perks
- We budget for renewals for professional certifications (AICP, CNU-A, etc.) for our staff.
- We invest in your continued education and budget for educational courses and continuing professional certifications.
- Where possible, we offer the flexibility of a hybrid schedule option so you can occasionally work from home.
What We’re Looking For
We are seeking a motivated, detail-oriented, and curious early-career planning professional who is eager to learn and grow in a supportive environment. The ideal candidate will demonstrate an understanding of land use and zoning concepts and an interest in applying these principles to development review and long-range planning projects.
A growth mindset is essential. We value individuals who are open to feedback, eager to develop new skills, and willing to collaborate with others. Strong customer service skills and the ability to clearly explain planning concepts—both in writing and verbally—are important to success in this role.
This role is well-suited for someone who is excited to contribute meaningfully and learn from a collaborative and experienced team.
This Position Might Be Perfect For You If
- You’re developing strong communication skills and enjoy explaining concepts clearly
- You’re excited to learn about both current and long-range planning in a municipal setting
- You enjoy working collaboratively with planners, other departments, and the community
- You’re comfortable handling multiple tasks with guidance and support from senior staff
- You’re curious about how planning policies shape the built environment
- You value public service and want your work to positively impact the community
- You’re detail-oriented and interested in building strong technical and writing skills
- You’re looking for an early career role with mentorship, support, and room to grow
As An Assistant Planner, You Will Be Responsible For
- Lead planning and development review projects, including routine or less complex applications, to ensure consistency with the General Plan, zoning code, and local policies
- Respond to inquiries from applicants, property owners, and community members regarding planning processes and requirements, providing courteous, accurate, and timely customer service at the public planning counter, by phone, and via email
- Assisting with long-range and policy planning efforts, including specific plans, zoning updates, and housing initiatives
- Conducting research and analysis to support land use decisions and policy development
- Participating in public meetings, workshops, and community engagement activities
- Collaborating with other departments to support coordinated planning efforts
- Learning and staying informed about planning practices, zoning regulations, and environmental review requirements
For more information about this career opportunity, visit the job description here.
Recruitment Schedule
Application Deadline: Thursday, February 26, 2026
Application Screening completed by: Thursday, March 5, 2026
1st Panel Interview: Week of March 16
Tentative Department Interview: Week of March 23
- All dates are subject to change at the discretion of the personnel officer**
ARE YOU QUALIFIED
Education And/or Experience
Graduation from an accredited college with a Bachelor's degree in planning or a related field, and one year experience in urban planning or any combination of training and experience that provides the desired knowledge and abilities. A Master's degree in planning or a related field is desirable.
Examples Of Acceptable Substitutions
Minimum Qualifications: A bachelor’s degree in planning or a related field, and
one (1) year experience in urban planning that provides the desired knowledge and abilities.
Substitution: A total of
five (5) years of experience in urban planning that provides the desired knowledge and abilities.
Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities
Knowledge of planning principles and practices, laws, ordinances, rules, and regulations. Ability to plan and organize work; prepare and present reports; communicate effectively both orally and in writing; deal constructively with conflict and develop effective resolutions; establish and maintain cooperative working relationships.
Special Requirements
Possession of or ability to obtain an appropriate California driver's license and a satisfactory driving record.
WHERE DO YOU GO FROM HERE
APPLICATION PROCESS
All applicants are required to apply online at www.cityofrc.us.
This position will close on Thursday, February 26, 2026 at 5:00 pm or until a sufficient number of applications have been received.
Applications must be complete and demonstrate that the minimum qualifications are met. All statements made on the application are subject to investigation and verification. Resumes may be attached to completed application form as supplemental information and will not be accepted in lieu of an official application form. Applications will be screened and the most qualified candidates who best match the needs of the City will be invited to compete further in the examination process. All candidates will be notified of their application status by email throughout the recruitment process. Candidates invited to compete in the examination process, who successfully pass the examination process, will be place on an eligibility list. The candidate on the eligibility list who most closely meets the requirements of the City may be selected to receive a final offer. The City may conclude that none of the candidates, even those who meet the minimum qualifications, are appropriate for the position.
Successful Candidates Shall Be Required To
- Pass a reference and background verification. References will not be contacted until a mutual interest has been established, and
- Provide proof of a valid California driver's license and be insurable; and
- Degree Verification; and
- Pass a pre-employment medical exam
If hired, candidate will be required to complete a verification form designated by Immigration and Naturalization Service to certify that they are eligible for employment in the United States of America and furnish proof certifying legal authorization to work in the United States.
The City of Rancho Cucamonga Participates in E-Verify. Federal law requires all employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States. In accordance, the City will provide the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services and, if necessary, the Department of Homeland Security and Social Security Administration, with information from each new employee's Form I-9 to confirm work authorization. For additional information regarding E-Verify, the Federal Government's online employment eligibility verification system, please visitwww.uscis.gov.
Disclaimers
The City of Rancho Cucamonga is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. In addition, the City of Rancho Cucamonga abides by a nepotism policy which may preclude you from being hired if the City employs a relative. The City of Rancho Cucamonga makes reasonable accommodations for disabled persons, considering each situation on an individual basis. Please make direct requests for accommodation to Human Resources. For information on Employee Rights under the Family and Medical Leave Act, please click here. There is a no smoking policy in effect in all City Offices and vehicles. Finally, please note that the provisions of this bulletin do not constitute a contract expressed or implied and any provisions contained in this bulletin may be modified or revoked without notice. Questions regarding this recruitment may be directed to Human Resources atCareers@CityofRC.us. Applicants may wish to visit the City's official website at www.cityofrc.us for more information.
- Retirement – California Public Employee's Retirement System (CalPERS)
- Medical - $1,450 per month City paid.
- Dental – City paid
- Vision – City paid
- Deferred Compensation – 2% of base salary. City will match up to $50 per month and 1% of monthly base salary per month
- Life Insurance - $50,000 City paid
- Administrative Leave – 50 hours per fiscal year
- Vacation - 80 hours per year increasing to 180 hours after 15 years of service. Buyback option of up to 160 hours per fiscal year.
- Holidays - 14 paid holidays including three discretionary holidays
- Sick leave - 120 hours per year
- Personal Leave – 40 hours of sick leave or vacation time may be used for personal leave per fiscal year
- Bereavement Leave – 80 hours paid bereavement leave as needed
- Tuition Reimbursement - $3,300 per fiscal year
- Long-Term Disability (LTD)- City paid
- Flexible Spending Account (FSA)- Medical and Dependent Care available
Additional Team RC Perks
- Flexible work schedule
- Remote work
- Bring your dog to work
- Baby on board
- Dress for your day
- RC cares
- Payroll deduction for Camp Cucamonga Summer Camp
- Lunch and learns
- Corporate discount rate at 24 Hour Fitness
- Access to our on-site gyms at City Hall and Public Works (equipment includes treadmills, weights, Peloton bikes, elliptical etc.)
- Jet Dental – an onsite dental service
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
- Employee wellness and development programs – Take your kid to work day, Health Fair, Staff development day, Leadership academy, Take your co worker to work day, Know your numbers)
- City tour
- New employee Mixer and welcome basket
- Employee activities committee
