Sacramento Area Council of Governments,

SACOG is the Metropolitan Planning Organization for the six-county Sacramento region. Formed as a Joint Powers Authority, SACOG is governed by a board of 31 elected officials that directly represent all six counties and 22 cities in the region, and one ex officio member (Caltrans). While transportation is core to SACOG’s role as a Metropolitan Planning Organization, SACOG has over two decades of experience approaching regional issues from an integrated perspective that examines the linkages between transportation, housing, economic prosperity, environmental stewardship, and air quality. Under the leadership of its executive director, SACOG has a vision of a vibrant and thriving Sacramento region for all. Its mission is: SACOG convenes and connects the region to advance an equitable, sustainable, and prosperous future.

SACOG is looking for a Principal Planner to manage the agency’s regional update and subsequent implementation of the Metropolitan Transportation Plan and Sustainable Communities Strategy, also known as the Blueprint. The Blueprint program is SACOG’s flagship project focused on advancing regional goals around racial and socioeconomic equity, economic prosperity, and environmental sustainability. 

Key duties include overseeing a team of professionals, with potential for some direct supervisory responsibilities depending on the chosen candidate’s skills and experience, through the development of a multidisciplinary, long-term land use and transportation plan for the greater Sacramento region.  Collaborate with the Planning Manager and Executive Team to manage the scope, schedule, and budget of the Blueprint Update.  Translate extremely technical concepts into plain and simple language for a wide range of audiences (elected officials, executives, professional staff, advocacy groups, and the public) through informative and engaging presentations and written materials.  Ensure the regional plan meets federal and state requirements.  

This position requires a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in, Urban and Regional Planning, Urban Studies, Environmental Studies, Community Development, Public Policy, Sociology, Political Science, Economics, or closely related field. Preferred, but not required, qualifications include AICP certification and working knowledge of Federal and State planning requirements and policy guidelines. In addition, qualified candidates will bring a minimum of three years of progressively responsible experience in the planning.

The SACOG offers an excellent salary and benefits package including an approved annual salary range for this position of $120,576 to $146,580 with a 5% COLA effective July 1, 2023, CalPERS Retirement and Medical plans.  A flexible and hybrid work schedule is offered, along with generous PTO, employer-paid wellness and telework benefits.

To apply for this exciting career opportunity, we invite you to visit our website:

Peckham & McKenney

Please do not hesitate to contact Carl Cahill toll-free at (866) 912-1919, cell (650) 504-3515 or carl@peckhamandmckenney.com if you have any questions regarding this position or recruitment process.  Resumes will be acknowledged within two business days. 

Filing Deadline: April 14, 2023

Apply Now