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Associate Planner Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

City of Des Plaines, IL

Associate Planner

Des Plaines, IL ยท On-site

$73K - $102K/yr

Prepares staff reports and makes presentations for public hearings before the Planning and Zoning Board. * Conducts routine studies pertaining to the Comprehensive Plan, zoning changes, and other ...

Omnicom

Associate, Planning

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

Media Planning and Buying As an Associate in Planning at Omnicom Media, you will play a foundational role within the media planning team, supporting the development and execution of strategic media ...

Omnicom

Associate, Planning

Chicago, IL ยท Hybrid

Media Planning and Buying As anAssociateinPlanningat Omnicom Media, you will play a foundational role within the media planning team, supporting the development and execution of strategic media plans ...

ULINE

Associate Supply Planner

Glenview, IL

Associate Supply Planner Corporate Headquarters 12575 Uline Drive, Pleasant Prairie, WI 53158 Stay ahead of demand at a growing North American company! At Uline, we're known for speed and reliability ...

ULINE

Associate Supply Planner

Waukegan, IL

Associate Supply Planner Corporate Headquarters 12575 Uline Drive, Pleasant Prairie, WI 53158 Stay ahead of demand at a growing North American company! At Uline, we're known for speed and reliability ...

RTC

Associate Production Planner

Rolling Meadows, IL ยท On-site

Spend time on the shop floor communicating with plant associates on handling production issues, expediting materials, and prioritizing orders. * Create part numbers and update planning data. * Enter ...

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All JobsAssociate Planner JobsAssociate Planner Jobs in Chicago, IL

Associate Planner information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$39.7K

$80.7K

$111.3K

How much do associate planner jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate planner in Chicago, IL is $80,707.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,000.00 and $94,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an associate planner do?

An Associate Planner typically assists in the development and implementation of plans for land use, urban development, or organizational projects. They conduct research, analyze data, prepare reports, and help coordinate public meetings or stakeholder consultations. Working under the supervision of senior planners, they support projects related to zoning, community development, or resource management. This role often serves as an entry-level position for those pursuing a career in planning, offering valuable experience in both public and private sector environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an associate planner, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Associate Planner, you need a solid understanding of urban planning principles, data analysis, and land use regulations, usually supported by a degree in urban planning or a related field. Familiarity with GIS software, Microsoft Office Suite, and planning-specific databases is commonly required, and AICP certification can be advantageous. Strong communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills help you effectively collaborate with stakeholders and present findings. These competencies are crucial for ensuring sound planning decisions, regulatory compliance, and successful project outcomes.

What are some common challenges faced by associate planners when balancing multiple projects with tight deadlines?

Associate Planners often manage several projects simultaneously, which can make prioritization and time management challenging, especially when unexpected changes arise. Juggling competing deadlines requires strong organizational skills and the ability to communicate effectively with both internal teams and external stakeholders. Utilizing project management tools and regularly updating supervisors on progress can help mitigate these challenges. As you gain experience, you'll develop strategies to efficiently handle shifting priorities and tight timelines.

How much does an associate planner earn?

An associate planner typically earns between $50,000 and $65,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level positions may start lower, while those with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher salaries. The role often involves using planning tools and working in team environments.

How to become an associate planner with no experience?

To become an associate planner with no experience, candidates should focus on obtaining a relevant bachelor's degree such as urban planning, geography, or environmental studies. Gaining skills in GIS software, data analysis, and project management through coursework or internships can improve prospects, and entry-level positions often require strong communication and organizational skills.

Is being an associate planner a good career?

An associate planner is an entry-level position in urban or regional planning that offers opportunities to develop skills in data analysis, zoning, and community engagement. It can lead to advancement into senior planning roles and typically requires a relevant degree and proficiency with planning tools like GIS. The career provides a stable job environment with potential for growth in public or private sectors.

What is an associate planner?

An associate planner is an entry-level or junior professional in urban, regional, or transportation planning who assists senior planners with data analysis, research, and project development. They typically use planning software, such as GIS, and may require a relevant degree in planning, geography, or a related field.

What are the most commonly searched types of Planner jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Planner jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Associate Planner jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Associate Planner job openings:

Associate Planner jobs near you
Infographic showing various Associate Planner job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $80,707 per year, or $38.8 per hour.

Associate Planner

City of Des Plaines, IL

Des Plaines, IL โ€ข On-site

$73K - $102K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

COMPENSATION:
  • Expected Starting Salary: $73,440 - $88,000.
  • Salary Range: $73,440 - $102,635
  • Actual salary commensurate with qualifications and experience.

POSITION SUMMARY
Position performs a variety of complex tasks in coordinating and facilitating the progression of development projects through the City's development review process, supports the administration and enforcement of the City's Zoning Ordinance.
SUPERVISION RECEIVED/EXERCISED
Works under the guidance and direction of the Assistant Director ๏ฟฝ Planning, Zoning, & Licensing Division.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Reviews development plans and proposals as assigned to ensure compliance with the various provisions of the City's regulations, consistency with existing zoning, and conditions of previous zoning approvals.
  • Reviews building permit applications to ensure zoning compliance.
  • Prepares staff reports and makes presentations for public hearings before the Planning and Zoning Board.
  • Conducts routine studies pertaining to the Comprehensive Plan, zoning changes, and other current planning matters where the information to be gathered is factual and objective in character.
  • Conducts pre-application meetings with homeowners, architects, and commercial developers.
  • Explains zoning projects and answers questions to the general public.
  • Resolves and/or coordinates with other departments to resolve information/records requests, zoning verification letters, zoning violations, neighbor disputes, and service requests.
  • Assists with drafting text amendments to the City's Zoning Ordinance and Subdivision Code that align with the development patterns and characteristics of specific areas of the City and reflect the conditions of approval for the zoning project.
  • Participates in the creation of plans for land use, including layout of streets, parks, location of businesses, industrial and residential areas, and transportation facilities.
  • Attends conferences and meetings to keep abreast of current trends in the profession; represents the department in a variety of local, county, state and other meetings.
  • Performs other related duties as assigned by their supervisor.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
  • Course work in progress toward a degree from a four-year college or university related to urban planning or a closely related field;
  • Degree from a four-year college or university related to urban planning or a closely related field preferred; and
  • Prior experience including internships or employment in municipal community development and/or urban planning preferred.

MINIMUM KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES
  • Knowledge of urban and suburban development and planning principles, practices, and techniques;
  • Knowledge of subdivision and professional planning and zoning procedures;
  • Knowledge of landscape architecture or urban design principles and practices as they apply to properly assessing planning projects;
  • Working knowledge of the methods and techniques of statistics and technical writing standards as applied to planning studies;
  • Working knowledge of GIS applications;
  • Ability to communicate effectively, orally and in writing with employees, consultants, other governmental agency representatives, City officials, and the general public;
  • Ability to plan, schedule, coordinate, monitor, and implement multiple planning programs and projects simultaneously;
  • Ability to represent the City in a professional manner at all times;
  • Skill in operating the listed tools and equipment.
  • This exempt position must have the ability to work the hours City Hall is open and may be required to attend City Council and/or Board meetings in the evenings from time-to-time. On occasion, this position may need to travel and attend evening meetings as required.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS/QUALIFICATIONS
  • A valid State of Illinois Class 'D๏ฟฝ Driver's License is required.
  • Certified Planner designation (AICP) through the American Institute of Certified Planners is desirable.

EQUIPMENT USED
Personal computer and various programs, telephone, copying machine, audio-visual equipment, and automobile.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to sit, stand, talk and hear. The employee is occasionally required to walk; use hands and fingers to feel, handle, or operate objects, tools, or controls; and reach with hands and arms; hand-eye coordination is necessary to operate computers and various pieces of office equipment.
The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 10 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and the ability to adjust focus.
WORKING CONDITIONS
Work is predominantly performed in an office setting where the noise level is usually quiet. Some outdoor work is required in the inspection of various land use developments and construction sites where the noise level will be moderate. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally exposed to inclement weather, including wet and/or humid conditions; or airborne particles.
BENEFITS
Check out our incredible benefits package!
  • Comprehensive Healthcare: We've got you covered with medical, dental, and optical insurance options tailored to fit your needs๏ฟฝoffering low deductibles, low premiums, and an overall low cost to you and your family.
  • Generous paid vacation, personal, and sick leave for a balanced work-life experience.
  • Paid holidays to enjoy special moments throughout the year.
  • Employer-paid Life Insurance for peace of mind.
  • Participation in the prestigious Illinois Municipal Employee Retirement System (IMRF).

Plus, as a member of the City of Des Plaines team, you get access to exciting financial benefits:
  • Retirement Health Savings Account
  • Transportation Spending Account
  • 457 Deferred Compensation Plan
  • Roth IRA
  • Optional additional Life Insurance

This benefits package ensures your well-being, security, and a bright future!
The City may begin reviewing resumes and scheduling interviews as applications are received.
The position remains open until filled.

Apply