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City Planner Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Department of City Planning (DCP) plans for the future of New York City, working to create thriving and dynamic neighborhoods with access to housing and jobs, resilient infrastructure, and a ...

The Department of City Planning (DCP) plans for the future of New York City, working to create thriving and dynamic neighborhoods with access to housing and jobs, resilient infrastructure, and a ...

Sr. City Planner

Gillette, WY · On-site

$72K - $116K/yr

Presents to Planning Commission, Board of Adjustments, and City Council. * Administers the Zoning Ordinance and Subdivision Regulations. * Records and maintains all current and historic planning ...

Planner

Kirkland, WA

$97K - $114K/yr

Implements the mission of the Department in order to assure the orderly growth of the City. Undertakes and coordinates professional planning services involving processing of discretionary and ...

Planner II

Fort Lauderdale, FL · On-site

$69K - $80K/yr

The City of Hollywood is hiring for a key vital role in our Planning & Urban Design Division. The Planner II performs advanced professional planning work involving development review, project ...

Planner 1

Reynoldsburg, OH · On-site

$29.79 - $42.40/hr

The Planner 1 provides numerous and varied services to assist residents, contractors, developers ... Coordinates with other City Departments and other City contracted Engineering staff. Provides ...

Senior Planner (Planner III)

Golden, CO · On-site

$76K - $106K/yr

The City of Golden is currently seeking Senior Planner (Planner III) applicants. Come and see why the City of Golden is the place you want to be. Being a Golden employee is more than just a job, it ...

Enforces the City's zoning and historic preservation ordinance during review for compliance of ... QUALIFICATIONS Planner I - Pay Grade 16 - $54,454.83 - $68,666.50 Education and Experience:

Planner

Aberdeen, MD

$56K - $75K/yr

City of Aberdeen, Department of Planning and Community Development Salary Range: $56,230-$75,101 annually Starting pay will fall within the posted range based on experience. The City of Aberdeen is ...

Planner III

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

$69K - $107K/yr

The City of Virginia Beach Department of Planning & Community Development is recruiting a Planner III with the Department's Current Planning team responsible for facilitating the discretionary ...

PLANNER

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$63K - $81K/yr

Follow and promote policies and procedures of the City of South Fulton. * Inform and advise the ... Perform current planning, building, and site plan review duties as necessary. * Meet with ...

PLANNER

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$63K - $81K/yr

Follow and promote policies and procedures of the City of South Fulton. * Inform and advise the ... Perform current planning, building, and site plan review duties as necessary. * Meet with ...

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City Planner information

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$38.5K

$69.3K

$101.5K

How much do city planner jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for city planner in the United States is $69,253.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,000.00 and $81,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a city planner do?

A city planner develops plans and programs for land use, zoning, transportation, and community development to create sustainable and functional urban environments. They analyze data, collaborate with stakeholders, and use planning tools like GIS to guide growth and improve quality of life.

What Does a City Planner Do?

A city planner develops short-term and long-term land use plans and programs for a city or municipality. As a city planner, your primary focus is determining the optimal use of land and resources to maintain communities, accommodate population growth, and revitalize outdated or inefficient physical facilities. City planners may choose to specialize in certain areas of development, such as transportation, code enforcement, or community development. Your job duties may involve conducting research for zoning and landscaping laws, evaluating regulations, and drafting legislation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a City Planner, and why are they important?

To thrive as a City Planner, you need strong analytical abilities, knowledge of urban planning principles, and a relevant degree in urban or regional planning. Familiarity with GIS software, zoning codes, and project management tools is typically required. Exceptional communication, negotiation, and problem-solving skills help city planners engage diverse stakeholders and navigate complex regulatory environments. These skills are crucial for developing sustainable, effective urban plans that balance community needs with regulatory and environmental requirements.

What are some common challenges city planners face when balancing community needs with regulatory requirements?

City planners often encounter the challenge of finding a balance between the diverse needs of communities—such as affordable housing, green spaces, and transportation options—and adhering to zoning laws, environmental regulations, and budget constraints. This requires strong communication and negotiation skills, as planners must engage with stakeholders, government agencies, and the public to reach practical and sustainable solutions. Flexibility, creative problem-solving, and attention to detail are vital for navigating these complexities and ensuring projects align with both regulatory frameworks and community interests.

What degree is best for a city planner?

A bachelor's degree in urban planning, geography, environmental design, or a related field is typically required for city planners. Many employers prefer candidates with a master's degree in urban or regional planning, which provides advanced knowledge of land use, zoning, and planning principles. Certification from the American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) can also enhance job prospects.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

A city planner typically requires a degree in urban planning, architecture, or related fields; however, some high-paying roles in sales, real estate, or entrepreneurship can reach or exceed $10,000 a month without a degree. These positions often rely on experience, skills, and networking rather than formal education, but they may involve long hours and high performance expectations.

What is the difference between City Planner vs Urban Designer?

AspectCity PlannerUrban Designer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Urban Planning, Geography, or related field; certification often preferredBachelor's or Master's in Urban Design, Architecture, or related field; certification less common
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, city offices, planning departmentsDesign firms, architecture studios, consulting agencies
Industry UsagePublic sector, urban development projectsPrivate sector, urban design and aesthetic projects

While both City Planners and Urban Designers work to improve urban spaces, City Planners focus on policy, zoning, and long-term development strategies, often within government agencies. Urban Designers concentrate on the aesthetic and functional design of specific urban areas, typically in private firms or consultancy roles. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and job expectations in urban development.

How much money do city planners make?

City planners, also known as urban or regional planners, typically earn a median annual salary of around $75,000, with salaries ranging from approximately $50,000 to over $100,000 depending on experience, education, and location. Advanced certifications and experience in GIS tools or zoning regulations can influence earning potential.
What cities are hiring for City Planner jobs? Cities with the most City Planner job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of City Planner jobs? The most popular types of City Planner jobs are:
What states have the most City Planner jobs? States with the most job openings for City Planner jobs include:
What are popular job titles related to City Planner jobs? For City Planner jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Assistant City Planner

Assistant City Planner

Orange Beach, City of (AL)

Orange Beach, AL • On-site

$57K - $82K/yr

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

Description JOB SUMMARY The Assistant City Planner performs professional planning work in support of the City's planning, zoning, development review, and long-range planning functions. This position assists with development applications, staff reports, ordinance administration, public inquiries, and coordination with other City departments, boards, and the public to ensure growth and development are consistent with the City of Orange Beach's adopted plans, ordinances, and community vision. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS / DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES Assists in the review of development applications including site plans, subdivisions, conditional uses, variances, rezonings, and other land use requests.

Reviews plans for compliance with zoning ordinances, subdivision regulations, comprehensive plan policies, and other applicable City codes. Prepares staff reports, recommendations, and presentation materials for the Planning Commission, Board of Adjustment, City Council, and other boards as assigned. Provides information and guidance to property owners, developers, engineers, architects, and the general public regarding zoning, land use regulations, and development procedures.

Conducts research and analysis related to land use, demographics, infrastructure, housing, and community development trends. Assists in drafting and updating ordinances, policies, maps, and long-range planning documents. Coordinates with other City departments (Engineering, Building, Public Works, etc.) and outside agencies during the development review process

Assists with floodplain management, coastal regulations, and environmental review processes as applicable. Maintains accurate records, files, and databases related to planning cases and permits. Attends public meetings, workshops, and hearings, including occasional evening meetings.

Performs field inspections related to zoning, land use, and development compliance as needed. Performs related duties as assigned. All positions at the City of Orange Beach have the job responsibilities below: Handles sensitive information in a confidential manner.

Maintains a highly professional attitude and demeanor at all times. Provides responsible, appropriate, and satisfactory leadership within the City. Communicates positively and professionally in all aspects of the position.

Attends all departments meetings, City meetings, and professional development activities. Becomes thoroughly familiar with all pertinent state and national policies and comply with said policies. Complies with City wide and departmental policies, as well as state and federal laws.

Ensures the positive promotion of the City. Is prompt and punctual in reporting for work, meetings, etc. Performs other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

An equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential functions, duties and responsibilities of the job may be considered. KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES Knowledge of: Principles and practices of urban and regional planning. Zoning, subdivision regulations, and land development processes.

Comprehensive planning and land use policy. Basic mapping, GIS, and site plan review concepts. Public administration processes and procedures.

Skills in: Technical and report writing. Interpreting and applying codes, ordinances, and regulations. Research, data analysis, and problem solving.

Public speaking and professional presentations. Organization and time management in a multi-task environment. Ability to: Communicate clearly and professionally, both orally and in writing.

Work effectively with the public, elected officials, developers, and staff. Read and interpret plans, maps, legal descriptions, and technical documents. Exercise sound judgment and maintain attention to detail.

Manage multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously. Ability to attend evening meetings as required. REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS Bachelor's degree in Urban Planning, City Planning, Geography, Public Administration, Architecture, Engineering, or a closely related field OR Any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience that provides the required knowledge and abilities.

One (1) to three (3) years of experience in planning, zoning, development review, or related work preferred. PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS Experience in municipal planning community planning. Familiarity with floodplain management and FEMA regulations.

Working knowledge of GIS software. AICP certification or ability to obtain within a specified timeframe. PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORKING CONDITIONS The physical and mental demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit.

The employee frequently is required to use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; and talk or hear. The employee is occasionally required to stand and walk. The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 10 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.

Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, and ability to adjust focus. While performing the duties of this job, the employee regularly works in indoor conditions (office environment) and regularly works near video display/computer use. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.Occasional fieldwork and site visits in varying weather conditions.