Associate Planner

BKF Engineers

Associate Planner supporting public- and agency-based planning efforts at BKF. Managing planning projects, policy analysis, and providing professional planning guidance.

Posted 6/29/2026full-timeSan Francisco • California • 🇺🇸 United StatesJuniorMid-Level💰 $34 - $50 per hourWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

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Demonstrates expertise in urban planning principles, zoning regulations, and environmental review processes while effectively communicating and collaborating with diverse stakeholders. Proven ability to manage planning projects from initiation to completion, ensuring compliance with municipal codes and best practices.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Urban PlanningZoning RegulationsEnvironmental Review (CEQA)Project ManagementPublic Engagement

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

Planning AnalysisGeneral Plan PreparationDevelopment Application ReviewData InterpretationTechnical Study Oversight

Soft Skills

Effective CommunicationFacilitationCollaborationCustomer Service

Certifications & Qualifications

Valid California Class C Driver’s License

Industry Keywords

Municipal PlanningLand Use RegulationsPublic AdministrationStakeholder EngagementCommunity Development

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Coordinates and manages a range of planning projects and assignments, including multi-agency and multi-jurisdictional efforts, from initiation through completion
Develops and implements long-range and current planning plans, programs, goals, and policies related to citywide initiatives (e.g., transportation, housing, economic development, and sustainability)
Prepares and updates elements of the General Plan and specialized plans; evaluates projects and program proposals for consistency with adopted plans, applicable regulations, and planning best practices
Reviews development applications and entitlement requests (e.g., site plan/design review, conditional use permits, variances, rezoning requests) for compliance with zoning, subdivision, and municipal code requirements; coordinates review with other departments and agencies
Provides professional planning guidance and customer service to residents, applicants, citizen groups, and other stakeholders regarding planning policies, processes, zoning and rezoning, ordinance updates, and applicable environmental regulations
Facilitates public meetings, stakeholder workshops, and interdepartmental discussions; prepares and delivers presentations and represents the Department at Planning Commission and City Council meetings, as assigned
Conducts research and analysis using maps, plans, reports, and surveys; interprets data to define issues, assess trends, develop alternatives, and make recommendations
Coordinates environmental review activities (e.g., CEQA) for assigned projects, including preparing or overseeing technical studies and ensuring required findings, conditions, and mitigation measures are documented

Requirements

What you’ll need

Bachelor’s degree in Urban Planning, Public Administration, Geography, Environmental Science, or a closely related field
Three (3) years of professional planning experience in a public agency setting or equivalent experience
Valid California Class C driver’s license and an acceptable driver’s record are required.
Knowledge of municipal planning principles, zoning and land use regulations, and environmental review requirements
Ability to communicate effectively (oral and written), facilitate meetings, and work collaboratively with internal staff, community members, and external agencies
Physical Demands: Must be able to regularly talk, hear and operate a computer, keyboard and mouse and occasionally lift, pull/push and carry up to 20 pounds with accommodations.
Work Conditions: Exposure to constant or intermittent sounds at a low or moderate level consistent with an office setting. Exposure to high-stress, fast-paced, deadline-oriented environment. Travel to other BKF locations and client sites may be required.

Benefits

Comp & perks

The typical base salary range for this position is $34.00 - $50.00 per hour, and will vary depending upon skills, experience, education, and geographical location.
Competitive salaries, profit sharing, and 401k.
Generous paid time off packages.
9 Paid Holidays.
Flexible schedules.
Education reimbursement, Paid annual dues for professional and societal organizations.
BKF offers competitive and award-winning benefits and perks. To learn more click here.