Planner, Government, Civil Engineering

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 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.

• 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 &…