Responsibilities
- Perform land use and community planning research and analysis, including zoning interpretation, policy review, demographic and spatial analysis
- Serve as a contributing author of planning documents such as Specific Plans, Area Plans, Master Plans, General Plan updates, zoning and design standards, technical memoranda
- Prepare clear, concise, and well-supported draft documents and graphics
- Lead assigned planning tasks with guidance from senior staff, applying standard planning methods and sound judgment
- Support project managers with task tracking, schedules, and coordination of deliverables
- Assist with scope, schedule, and budget tracking for assigned tasks
- Deliver work on time and within budget, communicating proactively about progress and challenges
- Participate in quality control and peer review to ensure accuracy and consistency
- Work closely with interdisciplinary teams, including planners, scientists, engineers, and designers, across ESA’s business lines and offices
- Participate in public outreach and engagement efforts, including facilitation assistance, coordination, and preparation of materials for public meetings, workshops, and stakeholder engagement activities
- Attend and participate in client and agency meetings as appropriate
- Demonstrate a growing interest in business development, including learning how client relationships are built and maintained and supporting efforts to grow ESA’s client base
- May participate in proposal development activities, such as assisting with scope development, budgeting, and scheduling, under the guidance of senior staff
- Engage in ESA initiatives and internal programs, including those focused on innovation, digital tools, and responsible use of AI, that support collaboration, efficiency, and professional growth
- Show a growing interest in project management, including learning about project delivery, coordination, and financial tracking
- Participate in professional organizations, conferences, and industry events to support professional development and broaden planning knowledge
- Other ad-hoc tasks as needed
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in Urban Planning, Environmental Studies, Geography, Public Policy, or a related field
- 2-7 years of professional experience
- Ability to work hybrid in our San Francisco office
- Open to fieldwork if needed and can walk long distances carrying a backpack; and are able to lift at least 50 pounds
- Confident working outside, in remote and rural settings, as well as in urban environments
- Some early morning, late night and/or weekend work, as well as long hours may be required
Nice to Have
- 3+ years' experience
- Master's degree
- Previous experience with project management, entitlement support and applications, urban design, climate/resilience planning
- Preference given to candidates able to work hybrid in our San Francisco office
Benefits
- medical, dental, and vision insurance (paid at 70% for you AND your family)
- annual allocations of company share through our ESOP
- a 401(k) plan with company match
- paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays
- tuition reimbursement
- professional development bonuses
- attendance at conferences
Work Arrangement
Hybrid
Team
Structure: Northern California Community Development team
Additional Information
- Please note, writing samples may be requested as a step in the interview process
- This role may involve some travel for site visits, projects, and in-person team collaboration as needed
- Physical outdoor work may include, but may not be limited to, work in all types of weather, traversing uneven ground and sometimes steep terrain in vegetated environments, agricultural fields, arid lands, and along stream banks
- You may be exposed to inclement weather and uncomfortable working conditions
