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City Planning Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Planning Team Leader

Staten Island, NY · On-site

$90K - $100K/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 ...

Associate Planner

Clemson, SC · On-site

$66K - $69K/yr

Coordinates City planning programs and performs routine and complex assignments in a wide variety of planning work, such as the preparation of project outlines, selection of data sources, and ...

City Planner

Ogden, UT · On-site

$24.01 - $41.87/hr

What if the planning decisions you make today become the foundation of a thriving community tomorrow?Pleasant View City in Pleasant View, UT is searching for a passionate and forward-thinking ...

City Planner

Layton, UT · On-site

$46.01 - $64.42/hr

Oversees the development and implementation of comprehensive current and long range master planning ... ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONSPromotes and follows the City's mission statement, values and expectations.

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City Administrator

Cold Spring, MN · On-site

$95K - $121K/yr

City Council STATUS: Full Time/Salary Exempt JOB POINTS: 483 PURPOSE AND SCOPE Provides overall direction and coordination for City planning, administration, and operations of all City departments ...

... Development, the City Planner will be expected to perform professional urban planning tasks ... Prepares reports on planning and development issues, including special use permits, rezoning ...

City Planner

Florissant, MO · On-site

$62K - $74K/yr

... Development, the City Planner will be expected to perform professional urban planning tasks ... Prepares reports on planning and development issues, including special use permits, rezoning ...

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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 Aug 12, 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.

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.

Is a city planning a good career?

City planning is a professional field that involves developing land use plans and policies to create sustainable communities. It typically requires a degree in urban planning or related fields, along with skills in GIS software and public communication. The job offers opportunities in government agencies, consulting firms, and private development, with a median salary around industry standards and a demand driven by urban growth and infrastructure needs.

What qualifications do you need to be a city planner?

City planners typically need a bachelor's degree in urban planning, geography, architecture, or a related field, with many roles requiring a master's degree in urban or regional planning. Professional certification, such as the American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP), can enhance job prospects. Strong skills in GIS software, public communication, and knowledge of zoning laws are also important.

Is there a demand for city planners?

City planners are in steady demand due to ongoing urban development, infrastructure projects, and the need for sustainable growth. Employment opportunities are expected to grow as cities expand and seek professionals skilled in zoning, land use, and environmental planning, often requiring a relevant degree and certification. The job market can vary by region but generally remains strong in areas with active development initiatives.

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.

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:
Infographic showing various City Planning job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $103,218 per year, or $49.6 per hour.

PLANNER IV (CITY/URBAN PLANNING) (SR-22) [2 vacancies]

City and County of Honolulu

Honolulu, HI • On-site

$5.9K/mo

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago


City and County of Honolulu rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 32 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

678th of 844 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Position Information Planning communities for today and tomorrow. The Department of Planning and Permitting (DPP), Land Use Permits Division, is seeking to fill vacant Planner IV (City/Urban Planning) positions in Honolulu. These positions perform professional urban planning work in the design and development of planning projects through the analysis and application of social, economic and physical data and reports.

What You Will Do Review and evaluate routine and moderately complex applications for development in the Special Management Area (SMA) and the Shoreline Setback Area (variances, conditional use permits, zoning adjustments, waivers, and other land use permits); prepare correspondence and reports to recommend action on applications. Respond to inquiries regarding SMA and Shoreline Setback laws and regulations, the zoning code and permit applications, and meet in-person with applicants, agents, and other parties. Review and evaluate Environmental Assessments or Impact Statements for correct and thorough documentation.

Conduct research, field investigations, and gathers data and analyzes land use, economic, social, and environmental data related to assigned projects. Participate in community meetings and hearings conducted by the Department, the Planning Commission, Zoning Board of Appeals, and the City Council. Perform other related duties as assigned.

***Planner IV (SR-22) salary of $5,953 per month includes shortage differential.*** Enjoy excellent employment benefits including generous time off (up to 21 vacation days, 21 sick leave days, and holidays), comprehensive health coverage, retirement plan, career development, and much more. View details about all our available benefits by clicking on the "Benefits" tab at the top of this posting or visiting https://www.honolulu.gov/dhr/benefits/. Apply today and take the first step toward a lasting career

Additional Job Information Some notifications will be sent via e-mail. You are responsible for monitoring instructions and correspondence from this office by checking your email account in a timely manner. To ensure proper delivery, please make sure you: - use a valid e-mail account; - verify your e-mail address is entered correctly on your GovernmentJobs account; - are subscribed to email notices; - check your spam folders; and - add infoneogov@honolulu.gov and info@governmentjobs.com to your contact list

Notifications may also be sent via text message if opted into the service. Data and text messaging fees apply. Minimum Qualification Requirements At time of application, you must be a citizen, national or permanent resident alien of the United States or a non-citizen eligible under federal law for unrestricted employment.

EDUCATION REQUIREMENT: Equivalent to graduation from an accredited college or university with major work in city planning, architecture, engineering, economics, sociology, public administration or a related field. Substitution: Work experience may be substituted for a bachelor's degree on a year-for-year basis. Such experience must have provided the knowledge, skills, and analytical ability normally gained from attainment of a bachelor's degree.

For example: 1. Four (4) years of professional work experience, in any occupation, may substitute for a general bachelor's degree. 2.

Four (4) years of general work experience (does not need to be professional level experience) in urban planning may be substituted for a general bachelor's degree. Education Verification: Education information must be listed clearly on your application. If available, please attach a legible electronic copy of your diploma, official transcripts, and/or applicable foreign credential evaluation to your application.

As part of the hiring process, you may be asked to furnish documentation to verify your education to move forward for further consideration. EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENT: Three years of professional experience in architecture, engineering, or socio-economic research, including or supplemented by one year of professional work experience in city planning or related planning activities. Applicable Skills Needed Knowledge of: the principles, practices, purposes, scope and techniques of the various phases of urban planning trends in Federal, State and local planning as they affect city planning research methodology and statistical procedures sources and uses of socio-economic information State and local laws and ordinances related to city planning Substitution: A Master's degree in Architecture, Civil Engineering, Geography, Economics, Sociology, Business Administration, Public Administration, or a related field from an accredited college or university may be substituted for two years of architecture, engineering, or socio-economic research experience.

A Master's degree in Urban and Regional Planning from an accredited college or university may be substituted for the required experience for the Planner IV (City/Urban Planning) level. Education Verification: Education information must be listed clearly on your application. If available, please attach a legible electronic copy of your diploma, official transcripts, and/or applicable foreign credential evaluation to your application.

As part of the hiring process, you may be asked to furnish documentation to verify your education to move forward for further consideration. NON-QUALIFYING EXPERIENCE: Having the required number of years of experience will not in itself be accepted as qualifying for the position. Your overall experience must have been of such scope, level and responsibility as to conclusively demonstrate the ability to perform the duties of the position.

LICENSE REQUIREMENT: Possession of an appropriate valid driver's license, as required. Examination Process If you qualify for the position, your name will be eligible for consideration for the current vacancy/vacancies and future job openings with this job title. Screening will be based on the education, experience, and other job-related information provided in your application.

Failure to provide sufficient information may result in your application being rejected or your receiving a lower rating. All information provided on an application is subject to verification. As applicable, false or misleading statements or omissions of material facts are grounds for disqualification and/or termination of employment with the City and County of Honolulu.


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