Planner II

Michael Baker International•Santa Ana, CA

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

Michael Baker International is looking for a Planner I or Planner II who enjoys turning complex data into clear stories, policy into action, and community input into plans that get used. You’ll work alongside planners, designers, engineers, and GIS specialists on high‑impact planning efforts across Southern California and beyond. If you like connecting dots—between analysis, policy, visuals, and people—this role was built for you. You’ll contribute to (and increasingly lead) long‑range planning projects for federal, state, regional, and local agencies. Your work will shape how cities plan for land use, hazards, housing, coastal resources, and future growth. Typical projects include: General Plan element updates, Specific Plans, Hazard Mitigation Plans, Local Coastal Programs (LCPs).

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Planning or a related field.
2–7 years of professional planning experience.
Experience preparing diverse plan types including General Plans, Specific Plans, Hazard Mitigation Plans, and Local Coastal Programs.
Ability to present information to internal staff, clients, and members of the public and coordination and engagement events
Proficiency in GIS and Adobe Creative Suite.
Strong skills in information design, data visualization, and translating technical content to everyday language.
Experience with proposal development and marketing.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office.
Valid driver’s license and ability to travel locally

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree in Planning or related field.
AICP certification or interest in pursuing AICP.
Coastal planning experience and Local Coastal Program preparation under the California Coastal Act.

Responsibilities

Turn data into insight: analyze quantitative and qualitative information to support planning decisions
Prepare and support General Plan element updates, Specific Plans, Hazard Mitigation Plans, and Local Coastal Programs.
Analyze quantitative and qualitative data for planning studies and reports.
Conduct policy analysis and research best practices, regulations, and standards.
Prepare clear technical writing for both professional and public audiences.
Develop maps, graphics, and visual materials.
Support and participate in community engagement—both in‑person and virtual
Conduct field observations and site visits, primarily in the southern California market
Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to deliver thoughtful, implementable plans
Contribute to proposals and business development efforts as opportunities arise
Contribute to (and increasingly lead) long‑range planning projects for federal, state, regional, and local agencies.
Shape how cities plan for land use, hazards, housing, coastal resources, and future growth.