< p >This blog post takes a look at Marin County’s hunt for a new Planning Director. The job? Guiding current, long-range, and environmental planning for Marin’s communities—think everywhere from San Rafael and Novato to Sausalito, Tiburon, and Mill Valley.
With a $5 million budget and a staff of 21, the county wants someone who’s forward-thinking. They’re hoping for a leader who can push land-use policy ahead while making things smoother for residents and business owners in places like Larkspur, Corte Madera, San Anselmo, and Fairfax.
Marin County Seeks a Visionary Planning Director
So, what’s Marin looking for in a Planning Director? They want someone collaborative, team-oriented, and honestly, pretty innovative when it comes to modern land-use policy.
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The ideal candidate should really know California planning law and be into process improvement. Marin’s landscape is all over the map—from Sausalito’s waterfront to the ridges near Point Reyes Station—so the job calls for strategic thinking and a knack for leading change across different towns.
Role and Responsibilities
Here’s what Marin County is highlighting for this leadership spot:
- Set the strategic direction for the Planning Division. Oversee current, long-range, and environmental planning across Marin’s towns and unincorporated areas, like San Rafael, Novato, and Mill Valley.
- Lead contemporary land-use policy efforts. Drive process improvements to make workflows faster and decisions more transparent.
- Make sure the county sticks to California planning law and keeps regulatory standards high.
- Work with county supervisors, city partners, and locals to balance growth and preservation—whether it’s busy downtown Larkspur or the quieter communities near Fairfax, San Anselmo, and Ross.
- Guide a team of 21 with a $5 million budget. Support professional growth and encourage departments to work together.
Candidate Profile: Qualifications and Qualities
Marin County has a checklist for applicants. They’re after someone who can blend technical know-how with leadership and a genuine connection to the community.
- At least five years of professional land-use planning experience, including two years supervising others.
- A Bachelor’s degree in planning, urban studies, or something similar.
- Deep knowledge of California planning law and a real ability to handle tricky regulations.
- Someone who’s a strategic thinker, proven to make meaningful change, improve service delivery, and streamline things across various towns.
- Strong people and communication skills, with a collaborative style that fits Marin’s mix of places—Tiburon’s waterfront, San Anselmo’s leafy streets, or Sausalito’s historic core.
Salary, Benefits, and Application Timeline
The job pays well, which makes sense given Marin’s high cost of living and the county’s goal to attract top talent. The salary can go up to $204,000, with a 4% bump in July 2026, plus a benefits package that’s actually designed for work-life balance—something that matters when you’re working from San Rafael to Point Reyes Station.
Applications are going through Teri Black & Company, LLC. If you’re interested, head to www.tbcrecruiting.com to check out the brochure and send in your application. The deadline is Sunday, April 26, 2026. Got questions? Reach out to Suzanne Mason at 561-631-2500.
Why This Matters for Marin Communities
From the coastline near Sausalito to the wine country edges near Novato, and on through the inland streets of San Anselmo, the Planning Director really shapes how Marin County grows. At the same time, they’re the ones working to keep that unique Marin character alive.
This role’s a big deal for places like Mill Valley, Ross, and Corte Madera. Folks there care a lot about lively neighborhoods, but they also want to see open spaces protected.
With the right person leading, Marin can keep juggling housing needs, environmental protections, and that tricky regional teamwork among towns like Fairfax, Larkspur, and Tiburon.
Here is the source article for this story: Position Available, Planning Director, County of Marin, CA
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