Planning Director - City of Solana Beach, California

Located along 1.7 miles of southern California’s coast and just 22 miles north of San Diego, the 3.5 square mile beach community of City of Solana Beach (population approximately 13,000) is home to a lifestyle defined by beautiful beaches, active parks, a thriving arts scene, and a walkable downtown.  The entire City of Solana Beach is within the Coastal Zone.  The community is known for bicycling along the scenic Highway 101, surfing, beaches and outdoor activities, neighboring lagoons and open spaces, and the Cedros Design Districtand Highway 101 District comprised of boutiques, galleries, cafes and shops, and restaurants.

The City seeks a creative, innovative, hands-on collaborative and approachable team builder, leader and Executive Team member as Planning Director for finding efficiencies; maintaining / improving the City’s high level service expectations; addressing changing state legislation / regulations; working with neighboring cities; oversight of the processing of coastal-related projects; handling department and inter-department entitlement reviews; and achieving the City Council’s priorities.

The typical experience, education, knowledge and abilities to serve as the Planning Director includes a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution in urban planning or closely related field, at least 10 years of increasing responsible municipal planning experience including at least 5 years of supervisory (staff and consultants) and administrative experience.  It is highly desirable to have a master’s degree, AICP certification, and coastal city experience. The salary range is $164,216 to $255,132 with placement based on experience and qualifications.  The City provides an excellent benefit package.

Filing Deadline: June 12, 2026
Resumes are acknowledged within 2 business days.