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City Planning Jobs (NOW HIRING)

City Planning Director

Tampa, FL ยท On-site

$56.89 - $89.13/hr

Introduction This is highly responsible managerial and technical work in reviewing, monitoring, and implementing city land growth, urban design, project management, and planning and development ...

Introduction This is highly responsible managerial and technical work in reviewing, monitoring, and implementing city land growth, urban design, project management, and planning and development ...

City Planner

Stillwater, MN ยท On-site

$70K - $94K/yr

Graduate degree in city planning, urban studies/design, public policy, or related field 3-5 years of experience in planning, zoning administration or related field American Institute of Certified ...

New

Graduate education in city planning, urban planning, urban design, architecture, landscape architecture, transportation engineering, public administration, economic development or related fields may ...

New

Graduate education in city planning, urban planning, urban design, architecture, landscape architecture, transportation engineering, public administration, economic development or related fields may ...

New

City Planner

Manhattan, NY ยท On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

Graduate education in city planning, urban planning, urban design, architecture, landscape architecture, transportation engineering, public administration, economic development or related fields may ...

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Borough Planner

Manhattan, NY ยท On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

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 ...

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 ...

Whether reviewing site plans, presenting to the Planning Commission, or engaging directly with residents and local developers, the City Planner plays a vital role in preserving Atchison's unique ...

Planner II

Johnson City, TN ยท On-site

$27.74/hr

The work of this class involves responsibility for the performance of moderately difficult technical work in city planning under the supervision of the Director of Development Services or their ...

Associate Planner - City

Oklahoma City, OK ยท On-site

$32.49 - $49.66/hr

Knowledge of principles of city planning. * Knowledge of and skill in determining appropriate research and analysis methodologies. * Skill in working efficiently and accurately with information.

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Associate Planner - City

Oklahoma City, OK ยท On-site

$32.49 - $49.66/hr

Knowledge of principles of city planning. * Knowledge of and skill in determining appropriate research and analysis methodologies. * Skill in working efficiently and accurately with information.

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City Planning information

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$56K

$103.2K

$157K

How much do city planning jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for city planning in the United States is $103,218.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,500.00 and $116,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much is a city planner paid?

City planners typically earn a median annual salary of around $70,000, with salaries ranging from approximately $50,000 to over $100,000 depending on experience, education, and location. Advanced certifications and experience in urban design or zoning can lead to higher compensation.

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 a solid background in urban planning, land use, and environmental regulations, typically supported by a degree in urban planning or a related field. Familiarity with GIS software, zoning codes, and project management tools is essential. Strong communication, analytical thinking, and stakeholder engagement skills set outstanding city planners apart. These competencies ensure effective, sustainable urban development that meets community needs and regulatory standards.

What is the difference between City Planning vs Urban Design?

AspectCity PlanningUrban Design
Primary FocusLong-term land use, zoning, and policy developmentPhysical design of urban spaces and public areas
Required CredentialsBachelor's or master's in urban planning, geography, or related fieldsBachelor's or master's in architecture, landscape architecture, or urban design
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, planning departments, consulting firmsArchitectural firms, design studios, public agencies
Industry UsagePolicy formulation, land use regulation, community developmentDesigning streetscapes, parks, and public spaces

City Planning and Urban Design are closely related fields but differ in scope. City Planning focuses on policy, land use, and long-term development strategies, while Urban Design emphasizes the physical layout and aesthetic of urban spaces. Both roles often collaborate but serve distinct functions within urban development projects.

What are some of the main challenges city planners face when balancing community needs with regulatory requirements?

City planners often encounter the challenge of finding a balance between the diverse interests of community stakeholders and the constraints of zoning laws, environmental regulations, and budget limits. Engaging with residents, business owners, and government officials requires strong communication and negotiation skills, as well as the ability to interpret and apply complex planning codes. Navigating these challenges is a key part of the role, and successful planners are adept at facilitating public meetings, incorporating feedback, and developing creative solutions that comply with regulations while addressing community goals.

How can you become a city planner?

To become a city planner, you typically need a bachelor's degree in urban planning, geography, or a related field, with many positions requiring a master's degree. Gaining experience through internships and developing skills in GIS software, zoning laws, and public policy are also important. Certification from professional organizations can enhance job prospects and credibility in the field.

Is city planning a good career?

City planning is a viable career that involves developing land use policies, designing urban spaces, and working with government agencies. It typically requires a degree in urban planning or related fields, strong analytical skills, and knowledge of zoning laws and GIS tools. The profession offers opportunities for impact on community development and sustainability but can involve long hours and public engagement.

How much is an urban planner paid?

Urban 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, location, and education. Entry-level positions usually start lower, while experienced professionals or those in high-demand areas can earn higher wages, often requiring knowledge of zoning laws, GIS tools, and planning regulations.

What is city planning?

City planning, also known as urban planning, is the process of designing and managing the development of cities, towns, and urban areas. It involves creating plans and policies for land use, transportation, housing, public spaces, and infrastructure to ensure sustainable and organized growth. City planners work to balance social, economic, and environmental needs, aiming to improve the quality of life for residents while accommodating future population changes. Their work often includes community engagement, zoning, and addressing challenges such as traffic congestion, housing shortages, and environmental protection.
More about City Planning jobs
What cities are hiring for City Planning jobs? Cities with the most City Planning job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of City Planning jobs? The most popular types of City Planning jobs are:
What states have the most City Planning jobs? States with the most job openings for City Planning jobs include:

City Planning Director

City of Tampa Florida

Tampa, FL โ€ข On-site

$56.89 - $89.13/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago


Job description

Introduction
This is highly responsible managerial and technical work in reviewing, monitoring, and implementing city land growth, urban design, project management, and planning and development management policies.
Nature Of Work
The employee will be responsible for performing highly responsible professional and supervisory work in long-term planning. Supervise and participate in a variety of municipal program or project planning activities. Work includes the coordination of various phases of the planning process, and participation in analysis of municipal conditions/needs and development of plans. To perform assignments effectively, employees must possess considerable knowledge of planning principles and practices and possess knowledge of broad program or subject areas associated with assigned specialty. Considerable initiative and independent judgment are necessary to ensure that activities are completed in accordance with plan production requirements. Work is reviewed through conferences, written reports, and observation of results achieved. Appointed position; employee serves at the pleasure of the Mayor.
Examples of Duties
Directs the development and implementation of the City's regular planning projects. Lead the project management of significant current and future development and community planning projects in the City.
Coordinates and participates in preparation and production of major plans and/or grant applications. Develops work programs and schedules, including coordination of tasks performed by personnel in other departments and components completed or contributed to by outside agencies or advisory committees.
Serves as liaison with other governmental officials and agencies to coordinate planning efforts and to develop and maintain funding sources; prepares reports and correspondence. Makes presentations to city officials and the public regarding the city's policies and principles on specific projects as needed; meets with private sector individuals to review urban planning and design policy relative to specific property or whole districts.
Plans, assigns, schedules, and reviews the work of subordinate professionals; recommends such personnel actions as employment, promotions, transfers, demotions, suspensions, and dismissals; responds to requests for leave; completes performance evaluations; administers required discipline; serves as initial respondent to grievances; trains and orients new employees and provides technical advice and guidance to all subordinates.
Participates in development, drafting, revision, and recommendation of program/project plans to address economic, social and physical problems and needs; collects, assimilates, analyzes, and interprets data and indicators regarding municipal conditions; oversees development of broad or particularized plans which document existing conditions, needs, goals, objectives, policies, work programs, implementation strategies, and budgets; supervises and participates in evaluation of plans and proposals from outside agencies; ensures that plans are revised to address changing conditions and needs and to facilitate implementation; oversees and participates in administration of grant projects, including budget formulation and revision, and project revisions and closure activities.
Prepares professional reports and correspondence.
Performs related work as required.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
Comprehensive knowledge of: modern management practices and procedures; social, economic, and physical factors influencing community development and improvement.
Considerable knowledge of: content and interpretation of municipal zoning codes, regulations, and related ordinances; laws, rules, and regulations governing zoning code enforcement; building codes and ordinances.
Working knowledge of: the geographical layout of the city; principles and practices of land use planning; legal terminology; methods and techniques of research, data compilation, analysis, and documentation; effective supervisory techniques.
Ability to: develop short-range plans; collect, assimilate, analyze, and interpret data; formulate sound recommendations; prepare and effectively present oral and written reports; plan, assign, supervise, and review the work of others; interpret municipal zoning codes tactfully and impartially; establish and maintain effective working relationships with legal department staff, city officials, contractors, and others.
Physical Requirements
Mostly sedentary, indoors, requires extended use of computer, typing and viewing a monitor.
Minimum Qualifications
Graduation from an accredited college or university with a bachelor's degree in urban planning, business, public administration or any closely related field and five (5) years progressively responsible experience in urban planning, zoning and/or land development preferably; with three (3) years of municipal administrative and managerial experience. Masters degree preferred.
Licenses or Certifications
Possession of a valid driver's license required.
Examination
Evaluation of education and experience. Drug testing is included in all pre-employment processing.
Comments
During periods when the Mayor issues an emergency declaration for the City of Tampa, all employees may be required to work in preparation, response or recovery activities related to the stated emergency.
Conclusion
HELPFUL HINTS FOR COMPLETING YOUR APPLICATION: Please register before you begin the application process. This will enable you to view and re-use information from previously submitted applications to complete and submit any future applications. Please make certain your application is complete and the information you provide clearly demonstrates that you possess the minimum job qualifications as stated in the job announcement. Resumes can be submitted in support of an application, but not in lieu of an application. Resumes and copies of certifications or other required documents may be attached to your online application.