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City Urban Planning Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Urban Renewal Manager

Bend, OR ยท On-site

$109K - $140K/yr

Current and valid driver's license per City policies outlined in the Employee Handbook Desired (but not required) Attributes: * A Bachelor's degree or Master's degree in Urban Planning, Public ...

City Planner I

Jacksonville, FL ยท On-site

$55K/yr

City of Jacksonville employees are also eligible for Federal Student Loan Forgiveness after ten ... This is entry level professional urban planning and regulatory work including data collection ...

City Planner I

Jacksonville, FL ยท On-site

$55K/yr

City of Jacksonville employees are also eligible for Federal Student Loan Forgiveness after ten ... This is entry level professional urban planning and regulatory work including data collection ...

Associate Planner

Arlington, WA ยท On-site

$76K - $109K/yr

Oversees moderately complex planning projects particularly residential, commercial, and industrial ... Assists in the annexation of unincorporated areas within the City's Urban Growth Area including ...

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 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 ...

Urban Forester

San Marino, CA ยท On-site

$6.5K - $7.9K/mo

... safety of all city-owned, public trees, plants and shrubs through proper planning, planting ... Urban forest management plans and contract specifications. Cal/OSHA regulations and safe work ...

City Planner

Florissant, MO ยท On-site

$62K - $74K/yr

... City Planner will be expected to perform professional ... urban planning tasks including reviewing and analyzing technical information including, but not ...

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City Urban Planning information

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$44K

$75K

$119K

How much do city urban planning jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for city urban planning in the United States is $75,033.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59,000.00 and $84,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is city urban planning?

City urban planning is the process of designing and organizing the physical, social, and economic aspects of cities to improve the quality of life for residents. Urban planners develop plans and policies for land use, transportation, housing, and public spaces, ensuring sustainable and efficient growth. They work with government officials, community members, and developers to create balanced, functional, and attractive urban environments. The goal is to create cities that are livable, environmentally friendly, and resilient to future challenges.

What are the main challenges city urban planners face when balancing community needs and development goals?

City urban planners often encounter the challenge of balancing the diverse needs of residents with economic development goals. This includes managing limited land resources, addressing housing affordability, preserving green spaces, and ensuring equitable access to public services. Planners must collaborate with stakeholders such as government agencies, developers, and community groups to find solutions that promote sustainable growth while respecting the character and needs of local neighborhoods. Effective communication and negotiation skills are essential in navigating these competing interests.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a city urban planner, and why are they important?

To thrive as a City Urban Planner, you need a solid background in urban planning, geography, or related fields, often supported by a relevant degree and sometimes licensure (such as AICP certification). Familiarity with GIS software, zoning codes, and urban design tools is typically required. Strong communication, problem-solving, and stakeholder engagement skills help build consensus and navigate complex community needs. These skills are crucial for creating sustainable, well-organized urban environments that balance growth with quality of life.

What is the difference between City Urban Planning vs City Land Use Planning?

AspectCity Urban PlanningCity Land Use Planning
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Urban Planning, Geography, or related fieldsBachelor's or Master's in Urban Planning, Geography, or related fields
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, consulting firms, non-profitsMunicipal government departments, planning agencies
Industry UsageBroadly focuses on overall city development and infrastructureSpecifically on zoning, land allocation, and zoning regulations

City Urban Planning and City Land Use Planning are closely related roles within urban development. Urban planning encompasses a wide range of city development aspects, including transportation, housing, and infrastructure, while land use planning specifically deals with zoning and land allocation. Both roles require similar credentials and often work within government or consulting environments. However, urban planning has a broader scope, whereas land use planning concentrates on land-specific regulations and zoning policies.

How to become a city urban planner?

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

Is there a demand for city urban planners?

Urban planners are in demand due to ongoing urbanization and the need for sustainable development, infrastructure improvements, and zoning regulations. Employment opportunities are expected to grow as cities focus on smart growth and environmental resilience, often requiring skills in GIS, zoning laws, and community engagement.

What does a city urban planning do?

A city urban planner develops plans and policies to organize land use, transportation, and public spaces to create functional, sustainable, and attractive communities. They analyze data, collaborate with stakeholders, and use tools like GIS software to guide development and zoning decisions.

Where do city urban planners make the most money?

Urban planners tend to earn higher salaries in regions with larger populations and higher costs of living, such as major metropolitan areas. States or cities with strong economic growth and investment in infrastructure often offer higher compensation for urban planning professionals. Experience, education, and certifications like AICP can also influence salary levels.
More about City Urban Planning jobs

What cities are hiring for City Urban Planning jobs?

Cities with the most City Urban Planning job openings:

What states have the most City Urban Planning jobs?

States with the most job openings for City Urban Planning jobs include:

Infographic showing various City Urban Planning job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $75,033 per year, or $36.1 per hour.

PLANNER VI (CITY/URBAN PLANNING) (SR-26) [1 vacancy]

City and County of Honolulu, HI

Honolulu, HI โ€ข On-site

$7.1K - $8.1K/mo

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago


Job description

Salary: See Position Description
Location : Oahu, HI
Job Type: Full-Time Permanent
Job Number: 256256
Department: Department of Planning & Permitting
Opening Date: 02/23/2026
Closing Date: Continuous
Position Information
Planning communities for today and tomorrow.
The City and County of Honolulu is seeking to fill Planner VI positions across the island! As a Planner VI (City/Urban Planning), you will supervise and participate in the development, analysis and completion of planning projects, or assume project responsibility for a major special purpose study requiring initial development and management and where assignments are of a creative nature, and perform other related duties as required.
What You Will Do
General duties of a City/Urban Planner VI include (but are not limited to) supervising and participating in:
  • Conducting surveys and research to develop general and area plans (e.g., transportation, utilities, schools, and recreation).
  • Preparing maps, layouts, designs, and development plans.
  • Establishing planning goals, policies, standards, and project criteria.
  • Producing zoning studies and reports.
  • Analyzing social, economic, population, transportation, and land-use data.
  • Presenting and discussing plans with community members and other government agencies.

There is one (1) vacancy with the Department of Planning and Permitting (DPP).
  • One (1) vacancy with the Planning Division
***Salary for the positions in the Department of Planning and Permitting is commensurate with applicable experience: $7,174 to $8,118 per month (SR-26) (includes shortage differential) pending approval.***
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
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 e-mail notices;
- check your spam folders; and
- add and 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 specialization 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:
Four years 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 city planning, and the preparation, maintenance and operation of a comprehensive plan for a large metropolitan area
  • Trends in Federal, State and local planning as they affect city planning
  • Laws and ordinances relating to planning, zoning, land subdivision, and redevelopment
  • The principles and practices of supervision

Substitution:
  1. A Master's degree in Urban and Regional Planning from an accredited college/university may be substituted for one year of professional work experience in city planning or related planning activities.

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.
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 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.
What are the benefits of being a City Employee?
-- Vacation: Employees may earn up to 21 days per year.
-- Sick Leave: Employees may earn up to 21 days per year.
-- Holidays: 13 days a year; 14 days during election years.
-- Training and Development: Computer, career, and personal enhancement courses are offered; curriculum designed for employee, supervisory, and management development.
-- Medical, Dental, Prescription Drug, and Vision Care: Various health insurance plans are available. Premiums are subsidized by the City and deductible from pre-tax income for participants of the Premium Conversion Plan (PCP).
-- Group Life Insurance: No cost for eligible employees.
-- Deferred Compensation Plan: Invest in your future...choose to defer part of your pre-tax income for retirement.
-- Retirement Plan: The Employees' Retirement System (ERS) of the State of Hawaii administers retirement benefits for State and County employees. Employee contribution required.
-- Commuter Choice Pre-Tax Benefits: Employees may designate certain transportation expenses (TheBus, LOTMA, Vanpool Hawaii, etc.) as a pre-tax item
-- Parking: Some job locations offer parking on-site; others may have access to parking at low monthly rates.
-- Direct Deposit: Direct deposit of paychecks to a designated financial institution is available.
-- Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Confidential, professional counseling and resource referral.
-- Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Program: A federal program forgiving the balance of federal student loans for individuals working in public service. For program requirements and additional information, please visit:
To view additional information, please visit our page.
* All benefits as stated above, are subject to eligibility requirements and to legislative and/or negotiated changes. Individuals are responsible for any related fees or charges that may apply.
01
APPLICATION GUIDELINES & INSTRUCTIONS
When applying for this position, please thoroughly complete the Education, Work Experience, and Supplemental Question sections of your application. The information provided in these sections, particularly the job-specific Supplemental Questions, will be used to determine whether you meet the qualification requirements for the job and your final score. Failure to provide detailed and complete information or submit any required documentation may result in your application being rejected or you receiving a lower score.
Please do not submit resumes in place of completing any of these sections.
List each work experience separately, do not combine jobs. For example, if you've held more than one position or job level(s) for the same employer, they should be listed and described separately so that the resulting changes in your duties and responsibilities are accurately reflected. If any part of your experience is unclear, you may be asked to provide a copy of your official job/position description (PD).
In general (unless otherwise specified on the job posting), the following criteria is utilized for evaluation of the Minimum Qualification Requirements:
  • Substitute, temporary assignment, internship or volunteer experience requires an official letter of verification from your supervisor and/or Human Resources department. The letter should include the job title, employment dates, number of hours worked, a description of the duties performed, and a contact name and phone number.
  • Concurrent or overlapping experiences and/or education will NOT be double credited.
  • Professional experience refers to work that generally involves independent critical thinking, solving complex, non-routine problems, preparing reports, and interpreting and applying technical information.
  • Most work experience as an intern will NOT be creditable as equivalent to professional experience.
  • Calculation of experience will be based upon a full-time, 40-hour work week. Part-time experience will be pro-rated. Hours worked in excess of 40 hours/week will not be extra credited.
    1. Example: Twelve months of experience at 20 hours/week will be pro-rated to six months of experience.
    2. Example: Twelve months of experience at 60 hours/week will be credited as one year of experience, NOT one and a half years.
  • All requirements for the position must be met at the time of application or by the closing date of the recruitment.

Possession of the required amount of experience will not in and of itself be accepted as proof of qualification for the position. The overall experience must be of such scope and responsibility as to conclusively demonstrate that you have the ability to perform the duties of the position.
Any information you submit is subject to verification. Supporting documents must be either electronically attached to your application or submitted to our office at: Department of Human Resources, 650 South King Street, 10th Floor, Honolulu, HI 96813. Documents should be identified by job title and recruitment number.
If you previously submitted education documents (e.g., transcripts, diploma, etc.) to our office, for most cases you are not required to resubmit them. Supporting documents with an expiration period (e.g., driver's license, Department of Transportation medical certificate, etc.) will need to be submitted with each application to verify possession of a current license or certificate at the time specified on the job posting.
  • I certify that I have read and understand the above statements.

02
EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENT
The Planner VI (City/Urban Planning) position requires that applicants have equivalent to graduation from an accredited college or university with specialization in city planning, architecture, engineering, economics, sociology, public administration or a related field AND four years of professional work experience in city/urban planning or related planning activities.
Substitution: A Master's degree in Urban and Regional Planning from an accredited college or university may be substituted for one year of professional work experience in city planning or related planning activities.
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.
Do you meet this education and experience requirement?
  • Yes
  • No

03
DESCRIPTION OF EMPLOYER
For each position listed in the Work Experience section of your application that qualifies you for this Planner VI (City/Urban Planning) position, provide a brief description of the organization and department you worked in. Include:
    a) the employer and your position title;
    b) the type of organization (e.g., government, private, non-profit, etc.) and description of the major goals and functions of the organization;
    c) the size of the organization (approximate number of employees) and what the major departments/divisions are within the organization;
    d) a description of the major functions of the division/department you worked in; and
    e) the level/rank of your position within your division/department.

04
CITY/URBAN PLANNING EXPERIENCE
Describe