Job Description
The Town of Fairfax, California is seeking a Principal Planner. Our Planning and Building Department is responsible for both near-term and long-range planning, building and code enforcement initiatives to ensure Fairfax grows mindfully, maintaining its charm while responding to growth in a measured and responsible way. The Town of Fairfax is an environmentally conscious community that is the gateway to West Marin County. With the town’s small businesses and quaint neighborhoods, and the visible open space of oak-studded hills and forested Coastal Range, Fairfax is a unique and special place that is loved by residents and visitors alike. Why This Role is Different In a large city department, you’re a cog in the machine. In Fairfax, you are a key architect of the town’s future. The position will have true variety. One day you’re mentoring staff and navigating CEQA; the next, you’re at the public counter helping a resident or presenting a high-visibility project to the Town Council. You’ll spend time in the field, ensuring development respects the unique terrain that our residents love **. What You’ ll Do The Principal Planner will supervise and inspire a dedicated team of professional and technical staff. The planner will handle the town’s most complex current and long-range planning projects with creativity and technical expertise. The planer will represent the department before the Planning Commission and Town Council, translating technical data into community vision. The person selected for this position will be encouraged to recommend improvements to policies and procedures to keep our department progressive and responsive. Who You Are You are an experienced professional with at least four years of land-use planning experience (including a year of leadership) and a degree in Planning, Environmental Studies, or a related field. You don’t just know the code—you know how to talk to people, resolve conflicts, and think strategically about the "big picture." The Details Full Benefits & Competitive Pay: The annual salary for this position starts at $121,794 and steps up to $140,000, with a 3.0% cost of living adjustment on July 1, 2026. Open Until Filled: First review of applications begins Monday, June 8, 2026. Ready to join the Fairfax Team? Send your cover letter and resume to jbeiswenger@townoffairfaxca.gov or visit townoffairfax.org/jobs for the full technical description.**