WE STRONGLY ENCOURAGE APPLICANTS TO READ THE JOB ANNOUNCEMENT
IN ITS ENTIRETY BEFORE SUBMITTING AN APPLICATION FOR THIS POSITION.
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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 DepartmentThe
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.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 26, 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 forMay 5, 2026)Department Interview: Tentatively scheduled for the week of May 18, 2026The 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.
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!
