Environmental Resources Planner

Closing Date: Friday, January 02, 2026 

To apply, go directly to: www.santacruzcountyjobs.com

THE JOB:
Conducts field inspections and identifies and evaluates hydrologic, biologic, geologic and related environmental conditions; reports findings for internal staff, reviewing bodies, and the public; identifies water resource management priorities, addresses potential violations of environmental regulations. The current vacancy is for an Environmental Resources Planner in the Planning Department. The list established from this recruitment will be used to fill the current vacancies and any future vacancies during the life of the list. County Equity Statement Equity in action in Santa Cruz County is a transformative process that embraces individuals of every status, providing unwavering support, dignity, and compassion. Through this commitment, the County ensures intentional opportunities and access,
fostering an environment where everyone can thrive and belong.

Specialized assignments include:
Planning Department Assignment: Beyond the work described above as THE JOB, Senior or Advanced Journey Level Resource Planners in the Planning Department are expected to have scientific knowledge and training. Positions in this class are responsible for complex long-range environmental and resource planning studies, analyses or project review in the fields of watershed management, water quality, water resources, solid waste management, geology, flood control, erosion control or related disciplines. At the Resource Planner IV level, Incumbents work under general direction to perform the most controversial and technically complex environmental and resource planning assignments; ensure quality assurance standards are maintained for resource planning studies; track, monitor and advocate legislation; develop policy; and may serve as project leader on multifaceted programs. Resource protection expertise may include riparian or other sensitive habitat identification and restoration, CEQA implementation, specific species of flora or fauna, geologic or geotechnical issues, or fuel load reduction. They will work closely with geotechnical staff, project planners, code compliance staff and other departments such as Environmental Health and Public Works. A suitable applicant for the Resource Planner III/IV position will have experience in resource management as described above and have working knowledge of legislative processes and policy formulation.