Planner Jobs in California
Planner jobs in California are among the most active in the country, concentrated in urban planning, transportation, environmental review, and supply chain across a state with uniquely complex land use and infrastructure demands. The largest hiring markets are Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Sacramento, where agencies and firms like the Los Angeles County Department of Regional Planning, AECOM, and the California Department of Transportation regularly post openings at junior, mid-level, and senior levels. The most in-demand specialties are environmental and CEQA review, long-range general plan work, and logistics and supply chain planning. Find a role that fits below and apply directly.
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The Opportunity
Ulteig is seeking a motivated Senior Urban Planner to join our Water & Environment group. This role is responsible for leading and supporting signature projects contributing to city/county and utility sustainability goals, increased resiliency of infrastructure, capital improvement and master planning, and environmental regulatory compliance. The successful candidate will collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to deliver innovative solutions for public and private sector clients, balancing community needs, regulatory requirements, and sustainable growth.
What You'll Do
Project Planning & Management
- Develop and implement comprehensive plans addressing sustainability (e.g., Climate Action Plans, GHG inventories), land use, zoning, and public infrastructure and utilities (e.g., roads, stormwater, water, wastewater, and/or power), while considering community needs (e.g., active transportation, recreational space, equity).
- Conduct research and analyze demographic, economic, and spatial data to inform planning decisions.
- Prepare planning documents, reports, and presentations for internal and external stakeholders.
- Review site plans and development proposals to ensure compliance with zoning laws, building codes, and community goals.
- Collaborate with architects, engineers, and other professionals to ensure integrated planning solutions.
Policy & Regulatory Analysis
- Formulate and recommend procedures, guidelines, and priorities for plan implementation.
- Evaluate and recommend changes to infrastructure planning procedures, zoning ordinances, land use policies, and development regulations.
- Monitor, interpret, and stay current on local, state, and federal legislation affecting urban development (land use and zoning ordinances), infrastructure funding, and environmental, sustainability, and resiliency initiatives.
Community Engagement & Communication
- Facilitate public meetings, workshops, and community engagement sessions to present project details, gather input, and communicate planning initiatives.
- Present findings and recommendations to planning commissions, boards, and the public.
- Develop and maintain strong professional relationships with clients, regulatory agencies, and community partners.
Project Implementation & Oversight
- Manage project timelines, budgets, and deliverables for planning initiatives.
- Oversee development and implementation of sustainability and urban infrastructure planning projects as needed.
- Lead and maintain client communication protocols and meetings throughout a project, organizing discussions on schedules, QA/QC, stakeholder engagement, deliverables, etc..
Business Development & Team Collaboration
- Assist with business development activities, including proposal writing, client outreach, and networking.
- Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams across Ulteig’s Lifeline Sectors (Water, Power, Renewables, Transportation).
- Mentor and support junior staff in technical and professional development.
What We Expect from You
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Urban Planning, Environmental Science, Geography, Public Administration, or a related field.
- 10+ years of relevant experience in environmental planning, sustainability, resiliency, or related disciplines.
- Certification by the American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) is preferred.
- Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
- Experience in community engagement and public consultation.
- Knowledge of zoning laws, land use regulations, and urban development and infrastructure planning processes.
- Experience in environmental sustainability, energy efficiency, waste management, climate change policies, and public health a plus.
- Excellent communication, organizational, and project management skills.
- Ability to prioritize and multitask under strict deadlines.
- Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with staff, management, public, and external agencies.
- Must be comfortable working in a highly collaborative team environment.
- Demonstrates openness to innovation by embracing and applying evolving technology and AI tools to enhance workflows, solve problems, and drive continuous improvement.
- Must have authorization to work permanently in the U.S.
As you consider applying for a position at Ulteig, we encourage you to think outside the box – because we do! You might not meet 100% of the skills listed in a description, but we are committed to hiring people with exceptional talent, ability, and potential, and then creating an environment where they can become the best versions of themselves. We don’t want to miss out on the possibility of speaking with the next outstanding Ulteig team member, so please apply if you think this role is a great match for your unique skills and strengths. And, yes, relevant military experience is absolutely considered for transitioning service members.
What You Can Expect from Ulteig
Ulteig is a purpose-driven organization that has built a culture focused on people, both our clients and our employees, for over 80 years. Working at Ulteig is more than a job, opening opportunities to make an impact by creating and solving for a sustainable future. We recognize our success relies heavily on the dedication and focus of our workforce; this is why we make investing in our employees a top priority. We prioritize flexibility and staying connected to meet your needs and help you achieve your goals. We value your unique perspective, respect your individuality, and celebrate your contributions. At Ulteig, we take our success and the success of our clients personally.
We offer our team members:
- Flexible Workplace
- Employee Ownership
- Competitive Pay
- Comprehensive Benefits Package
- Collaborative Environment
- Innovative Culture
Our vision is to be the most trusted partners transforming our world’s critical infrastructure. Ulteig connects people and resources to develop compelling, integrated solutions across multiple Lifeline Sectors®, including Power, Renewables, Transportation, and Water. Ulteig is a trusted partner in engineering North America’s essential infrastructure and leverages its expertise with a wide range of public and private clients.
At Ulteig, we care deeply about our team, listening to their needs and ensuring they have the tools necessary to be productive, whether they choose to work remotely, hybrid, or in the office. Regardless of where you work, you are empowered to build a workday that best suits your strengths. We strive to ensure a balance and separation between home and work life. We support a flexible working schedule so employees are able to focus on what's important to them.
If you would like to be a part of a company that empowers their employees, apply today!
Ulteig is a Drug-Free Workplace
ACHIEVE | GROW | COLLABORATE
Target Base Compensation Range for this role is $118,500- $160,600
- Factors that may be used to determine your actual salary include your job-specific skills, education, training, job location, number of years of experience related to this role and comparison to other employees already in this role.
This position will be posted for a minimum of 3 days and will continue to be posted for an average of 60 days until a qualified applicant is selected or the position has been cancelled.
Notice to Recruiters and Staffing Agencies: to protect the interests of all parties, Ulteig Engineers, Inc., will not accept unsolicited resumes from any source other than directly from a candidate or an approved vendor that has a written and signed agreement in place with Ulteig. Please do not contact or forward resumes to our company employees or locations. Any unsolicited resumes will be considered Ulteig property. Ulteig is not responsible for any charges or fees related to unsolicited resumes.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights (https://www.eeoc.gov/poster) notice from the Department of Labor.
The Opportunity
Ulteig is seeking a motivated Senior Urban Planner to join our Water & Environment group. This role is responsible for leading and supporting signature projects contributing to city/county and utility sustainability goals, increased resiliency of infrastructure, capital improvement and master planning, and environmental regulatory compliance. The successful candidate will collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to deliver innovative solutions for public and private sector clients, balancing community needs, regulatory requirements, and sustainable growth.
What You'll Do
Project Planning & Management
- Develop and implement comprehensive plans addressing sustainability (e.g., Climate Action Plans, GHG inventories), land use, zoning, and public infrastructure and utilities (e.g., roads, stormwater, water, wastewater, and/or power), while considering community needs (e.g., active transportation, recreational space, equity).
- Conduct research and analyze demographic, economic, and spatial data to inform planning decisions.
- Prepare planning documents, reports, and presentations for internal and external stakeholders.
- Review site plans and development proposals to ensure compliance with zoning laws, building codes, and community goals.
- Collaborate with architects, engineers, and other professionals to ensure integrated planning solutions.
Policy & Regulatory Analysis
- Formulate and recommend procedures, guidelines, and priorities for plan implementation.
- Evaluate and recommend changes to infrastructure planning procedures, zoning ordinances, land use policies, and development regulations.
- Monitor, interpret, and stay current on local, state, and federal legislation affecting urban development (land use and zoning ordinances), infrastructure funding, and environmental, sustainability, and resiliency initiatives.
Community Engagement & Communication
- Facilitate public meetings, workshops, and community engagement sessions to present project details, gather input, and communicate planning initiatives.
- Present findings and recommendations to planning commissions, boards, and the public.
- Develop and maintain strong professional relationships with clients, regulatory agencies, and community partners.
Project Implementation & Oversight
- Manage project timelines, budgets, and deliverables for planning initiatives.
- Oversee development and implementation of sustainability and urban infrastructure planning projects as needed.
- Lead and maintain client communication protocols and meetings throughout a project, organizing discussions on schedules, QA/QC, stakeholder engagement, deliverables, etc..
Business Development & Team Collaboration
- Assist with business development activities, including proposal writing, client outreach, and networking.
- Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams across Ulteig’s Lifeline Sectors (Water, Power, Renewables, Transportation).
- Mentor and support junior staff in technical and professional development.
What We Expect from You
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Urban Planning, Environmental Science, Geography, Public Administration, or a related field.
- 10+ years of relevant experience in environmental planning, sustainability, resiliency, or related disciplines.
- Certification by the American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) is preferred.
- Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
- Experience in community engagement and public consultation.
- Knowledge of zoning laws, land use regulations, and urban development and infrastructure planning processes.
- Experience in environmental sustainability, energy efficiency, waste management, climate change policies, and public health a plus.
- Excellent communication, organizational, and project management skills.
- Ability to prioritize and multitask under strict deadlines.
- Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with staff, management, public, and external agencies.
- Must be comfortable working in a highly collaborative team environment.
- Demonstrates openness to innovation by embracing and applying evolving technology and AI tools to enhance workflows, solve problems, and drive continuous improvement.
- Must have authorization to work permanently in the U.S.
As you consider applying for a position at Ulteig, we encourage you to think outside the box – because we do! You might not meet 100% of the skills listed in a description, but we are committed to hiring people with exceptional talent, ability, and potential, and then creating an environment where they can become the best versions of themselves. We don’t want to miss out on the possibility of speaking with the next outstanding Ulteig team member, so please apply if you think this role is a great match for your unique skills and strengths. And, yes, relevant military experience is absolutely considered for transitioning service members.
What You Can Expect from Ulteig
Ulteig is a purpose-driven organization that has built a culture focused on people, both our clients and our employees, for over 80 years. Working at Ulteig is more than a job, opening opportunities to make an impact by creating and solving for a sustainable future. We recognize our success relies heavily on the dedication and focus of our workforce; this is why we make investing in our employees a top priority. We prioritize flexibility and staying connected to meet your needs and help you achieve your goals. We value your unique perspective, respect your individuality, and celebrate your contributions. At Ulteig, we take our success and the success of our clients personally.
We offer our team members:
- Flexible Workplace
- Employee Ownership
- Competitive Pay
- Comprehensive Benefits Package
- Collaborative Environment
- Innovative Culture
Our vision is to be the most trusted partners transforming our world’s critical infrastructure. Ulteig connects people and resources to develop compelling, integrated solutions across multiple Lifeline Sectors®, including Power, Renewables, Transportation, and Water. Ulteig is a trusted partner in engineering North America’s essential infrastructure and leverages its expertise with a wide range of public and private clients.
At Ulteig, we care deeply about our team, listening to their needs and ensuring they have the tools necessary to be productive, whether they choose to work remotely, hybrid, or in the office. Regardless of where you work, you are empowered to build a workday that best suits your strengths. We strive to ensure a balance and separation between home and work life. We support a flexible working schedule so employees are able to focus on what's important to them.
If you would like to be a part of a company that empowers their employees, apply today!
Ulteig is a Drug-Free Workplace
ACHIEVE | GROW | COLLABORATE
Target Base Compensation Range for this role is $118,500- $160,600
- Factors that may be used to determine your actual salary include your job-specific skills, education, training, job location, number of years of experience related to this role and comparison to other employees already in this role.
This position will be posted for a minimum of 3 days and will continue to be posted for an average of 60 days until a qualified applicant is selected or the position has been cancelled.
Notice to Recruiters and Staffing Agencies: to protect the interests of all parties, Ulteig Engineers, Inc., will not accept unsolicited resumes from any source other than directly from a candidate or an approved vendor that has a written and signed agreement in place with Ulteig. Please do not contact or forward resumes to our company employees or locations. Any unsolicited resumes will be considered Ulteig property. Ulteig is not responsible for any charges or fees related to unsolicited resumes.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights (https://www.eeoc.gov/poster) notice from the Department of Labor.
See All 578+ Planner Jobs in California
Find roles in California that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find Planner JobsPlanner Jobs by City in California
Where California roles are concentrated, by current openings.
Planner Job Market in California
A snapshot from current California openings, updated as new roles post.
Who's Hiring
- Lockheed Martin17
- Oracle10
- Williams-Sonoma9
- Tesla8
- JLL7
Top Industries Hiring
- Electronics & Hardware
- Technology & Software
- Staffing & Recruiting
- Consulting & Professional Services
- Manufacturing
What California Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in planner jobs across California.
- AICP certification or active pursuit of certification through the American Institute of Certified Planners
- Bachelor's or master's degree in urban planning, environmental planning, or a closely related field
- Working knowledge of CEQA review processes and California land use law
- Experience with GIS software, spatial analysis, and mapping tools such as ArcGIS
- Ability to write staff reports, environmental documents, and public-facing planning materials
- Strong communication skills for presenting at public hearings and working with community stakeholders
Planner Jobs in California: Frequently Asked Questions
How do you become a planner in California?
Most California planning roles require at minimum a bachelor's degree in urban planning, environmental planning, public policy, or geography, though competitive positions at cities and counties increasingly prefer a master's degree. California does not issue a state-specific planning license, but the American Institute of Certified Planners credential is the recognized professional standard and is required or preferred by many California public agencies. Entry-level candidates typically join city or county planning departments as planning technicians or assistant planners and gain AICP eligibility through supervised professional experience.
Which companies hire planners in California?
California planner roles are posted by Lockheed Martin, Oracle, and Williams-Sonoma and others right now, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of November 2026. California's scale of public infrastructure investment, active environmental review requirements, and density of both public agencies and large private consulting firms make it one of the most consistent states for planning job volume across all specialties.
Which California cities have the most planner jobs?
Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Diego have the most planner openings in California right now. Los Angeles generates the highest volume because of its size, active development pipeline, and large regional agencies, while Sacramento concentrates state government and capital planning work, and San Francisco and its surrounding Bay Area counties drive demand in transportation, environmental review, and long-range housing policy.
Are there remote planner jobs in California?
Yes, but they're less common than in purely desk-based fields, since planning work often involves site visits, public hearings, and coordination with local agencies that require in-person presence. About 51% of planner openings tied to California are remote or hybrid as of November 2026, with those options most available in long-range research, policy analysis, and certain environmental document review roles where fieldwork is minimal.
How can I get hired as a planner in California with little or no experience?
The most realistic entry path is applying directly to California city and county planning departments as a planning technician or planning aide, roles that are explicitly designed for candidates without professional experience. Many large California municipalities, including those in Los Angeles County and the Bay Area, run internship programs through university partnerships with Cal Poly, UCLA, and UC Berkeley's planning programs. Building a portfolio of coursework projects, a working knowledge of CEQA basics, and familiarity with ArcGIS gives candidates a concrete edge at the application stage.
Where can I find and apply to planner jobs in California?
You can find and apply to planner jobs in California on Migrate Mate, which lists current California openings across cities, counties, consulting firms, and state agencies. Search the listings to find roles that match your specialty and experience level, then apply directly to the ones that fit.
See All 578+ Planner Jobs in California
Find roles in California that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
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