JOB DESCRIPTION

***SALARY & COLA INCREASES EFFECTIVE THE FIRST PAY PERIOD FOLLOWING JULY 1, 2026.

Under general supervision, performs professional planning and economic development work to support business retention and attraction, downtown revitalization, redevelopment of commercial and industrial areas, and implementation of the City's economic development and land use goals. This position serves as a key liaison to local businesses and property owners and supports development projects from concept through entitlement, with a strong emphasis on customer service and economic revitalization in a small-city environment.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS

The Associate Planner — Economic Development Specialist is distinguished by a hybrid focus on planning, development facilitation, and economic development implementation, Incumbents exercise independent judgment, manage assigned projects, and work closely with businesses, developers, and partner agencies. The position supports Santa Paula's historic downtown, industrial corridors, agricultural-adjacent uses, and emerging economic development initiatives.

Knowledge of: Principles and practices of urban planning and economic development; zoning, land use, and development review processes; economic development tools and incentives used by California cities; grantfunding programs and basic compliance requirements; public sector customer service practices.

Ability to: Analyze development proposals and economic data; interpret and apply municipal codes, policies, and regulations; communicate effectively with the public, business community, and elected officials; prepare clear and concise written reports and presentations; manage multiple projects in a small-city, fast-paced environment; establish and maintain effective working relationships.

Physical and Environmental Demands: Sufficient physical ability to work in an office setting, including prolonged sitting, standing, walking, reaching, twisting, turning, kneeling, bending, squatting and stooping in the performance of daily activities and/or strength and agility to lift up to 25 pounds. The position also requires work outdoors in all weather conditions including wet, hot and cold and may be exposed to dust and pollen.

Examples of Duties Performed

The following duties are typical for this classification. Incumbents may not perform all of the listed duties and/or may be required to perform additional or different duties from those set forth to address business needs and changing business practices.

Economic Development & Business Support

• Serve as a primary point of contact for local businesses, entrepreneurs, developers, and property owners.
• Support business retention, expansion, and attraction efforts, including site selection assistance and development feasibility review.
• Assist in administering City economic development programs, incentives, and funding sources, including: façade improvements, CDBG, EDA, and other state and federal programs.
• Support downtown revitalization, corridor improvement, and reuse of historic and underutilized commercial and industrial properties.
• Coordinate with tourism, arts, and heritage-related partners to support Santa Paula's local economy.

Planning & Development Review

• Review planning applications, including zoning clearances, conditional use permits, site plan reviews, variances, and development agreements.
• Assist applicants in navigating City permitting processes with an emphasis on timely, customer-focused service.
• Prepare staff reports, resolutions, environmental documentation, and presentations for the Planning Commission, Design Assistance Committee, City Council and Standing committee as assigned.
• Coordinate development review with Building & Safety, Public Works, Fire, and other departments.
• Participate in long-range planning efforts, including General Plan implementation, Housing Element programs, and economic development-related policies.

Program Implementation & Grants

• Assist with preparation and administration of grant applications, funding agreements, and compliance reporting.
• Track economic development metrics, development activity, and program outcomes. Support implementation of adopted City plans and strategies related to economic development, land use, housing, and community revitalization.

Outreach & Interagency Coordination

• Build and maintain positive working relationships with business owners, residents, regional agencies, Ventura County, and community organizations. 34.32
• Represent the City at business meetings, workshops, and community events and on regional boards
• Respond to public inquiries regarding planning and economic development matters.

Minimum Qualifications

Any combination of education and experience that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be:

Education: Bachelor's degree in Urban Planning, Economics, Public Administration, Business, Geography, or a related field.

Experience: Two (2) years of professional planning or economic development experience.

License; Certificates; Special Requirements: A valid Class C California driver’s license. AICP or CECD certification is desirable but not required.

BENEFITS

In addition to your Salary, the City of Santa Paula offers you an extensive package, including:

Retirement, Cafeteria Plan, Long Term Disability Insurance, Annual Leave, Paid Holidays, Flexible Spending Arrangements (FSA), Deferred Compensation Program, Tuition Reimbursement, Life Insurance. For more detailed information, visit our website.