PLANNING SPECIALIST

University of California Office of the President

United States, California, Oakland

1111 Franklin Street (Show on map)

March 21, 2023

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UC OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT

At the University of California (UC), your contributions make a difference. A world leader producing Nobel and Pulitzer prize recipients with over 150 years of groundbreaking research transforming the world. Choose a career where you can leverage your knowledge, skills and aspirations to inspire and support some of the greatest minds in the world, and those who will follow in their footsteps. Working at the University of California is being part of a unique institution, and a vibrant and diverse community. At the University of California, Office of the President, we propel our mission through impactful work locally, in government centers and systemwide. We are passionate people, serving the greater good.

The University of California, one of the largest and most acclaimed institutions of higher learning in the world, is dedicated to excellence in teaching, research and public service. The University of California Office of the President is the headquarters to the 10 campuses, six academic medical centers and three national laboratories and enrolls premier students from California, the nation and the world.

DEPARTMENT OVERVIEW

Capital Programs provides systemwide leadership and campus support in the following areas: capital budget strategy, policy and program recommendations to the Regents and the State of California; capital project design and delivery strategies, contract development and training; design professional selections; building/safety code and regulatory issues; land use and site planning, long-range development plans, CEQA compliance, and environmental documents; sustainability; and real estate transactions.

POSITION SUMMARY

The Planning Specialist 3 position requires a professional with a full range of capital planning skills. The planner provides capital planning assistance in evaluating campus submittals for major construction projects and project approvals. The work includes reviews of Project Planning Guides and other related project materials pertaining to scope, schedule, and budget. These reviews are usually of campus submissions for approvals at Regental, Presidential, and Chancellor levels. Some aspects of the position involve analysis of project drawings and plans, as well as review of funding sources. The incumbent will assist in the development of reports and graphic presentations.

The planner works with relative independence in providing analysis, developing process strategies, and ensuring project consistency with University policies and priorities. Incumbent must possess excellent analytical, written, and oral communication skills. The planner must demonstrate good judgment in communicating with stakeholders.

This position has a flexible work arrangement, including hybrid and in-office (incumbent must reside in California).

Responsibilities

45%	Under supervision, provides support for the review of campus proposals and presentations intended for University or Regental approval. Evaluates proposals and submittals, and identifies issues or concerns. Develops recommendations to resolve issues, along with supporting analyses. May include preparation of statistical and graphic supporting material. Provides follow-up on project issues. Working with OP and campus staff, drafts project approvals and other complex documents.
40%	Provides planning support for the review of State-funded project submittals from campuses for construction of educational facilities. Submittals typically include project drawings, cost estimates and budgets, schedules, and financing. Evaluates submittals with the context of Regental and University goals, analyzes accuracy of information, funding sources and associated restrictions, and feasibility of proposed costs and schedule. Prepares approval documents and recommendations. Also reviews project amendments for scope and funding changes. Project evaluation often involves follow-up with campuses and staff to refine documents. Work on systemwide data collection and analysis.
15%	Works with Capital Planning team and campus staff to prepare annual Capital Financial Plan, along with related support documents.

Required Qualifications

Working knowledge of capital planning and development, city planning, architecture, higher education planning, or other planning-related fields.
Experience conducting analysis of proposals with respect to general feasibility, cost effectiveness, and financial feasibility.
Proficient in math, equation development, and use of formulas and functions in Excel. Ability to analyze data and materials from various sources, develop valid conclusions, and formally present the analysis and recommendations to a targeted audience.
Strong written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills, including political acumen. Ability to proof documents independently and prepare documents for professional publishing. Proficient in Microsoft Word at the Intermediate level.
Aptitude for interacting collaboratively across organizational lines. Utilizes discretion with sensitive and/or confidential information.
Meticulous about details and accuracy of work. Strong organizational and time management skills, including meeting deadlines and working under pressure.

Preferred Qualifications

Knowledge of short and long range development plans. Understanding of design and environmental review fields.
Broad understanding of fund sources and fund source restrictions.
Experience in the higher education sector and/or public works contracting. Experience in a large complex organization with many stakeholders.

Education: Bachelor's degree in a related area and three years of experience

SALARY AND BENEFITS

Salary: $100,000 - $117,000 commensurate with experience.

Career Tracks Title: Plng Spec 3, PSS Grade 23

Benefits: For information on the comprehensive benefits package offered by the University visit:

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

This position may be eligible for a on site, hybrid, or remote within California work arrangement. The employee may be required to report to work onsite in Oakland, CA on a regular schedule.

HOW TO APPLY

Please be prepared to attach a cover letter and resume with your application.

APPLICATION REVIEW DATE

The first review date for this job is September 30, 2022. The position will be open until filled.

CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT

Background Check Process: Successful completion of a background check is required for this critical position.

Smoke Free Work Environment: The University of California, Office of the President, is smoke & tobacco-free as of January 1, 2014.

August 2021 Update: The University of California has issued a policy requiring employees to be fully vaccinated against COVID -19 before physically accessing the University location or programs. Upon hire into a UCOP position, you will be provided detailed instructions on how to comply with this policy including access to the COVID vaccination at no cost. New hires to UCOP who work onsite or will come onsite for any activities at a UCOP or other UC location must comply with this policy within 8 weeks after their start date. The policy allows for employees to request approval for an exception or deferral.

EEO STATEMENT

The University of California, Office of the President, is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age or protected veteran status.

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