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Community Development Planner Jobs in California

City of Lodi

Community Development Director

Lodi, CA

$201K/yr

Under administrative direction, manages, plans, organizes, coordinates, and directs the planning ... Community Development department. Assignments allow for a high degree of administrative ...

Bayer

NAM Market Development Planner

Oxnard, CA

$63K - $94K/yr

If you're hungry to build a varied and meaningful career in a community of brilliant and diverse minds to make a real difference, there's only one choice. NAM Market Development Planner The Market ...

New

Bayer Inc.

NAM Market Development Planner

Oxnard, CA · On-site

$63K - $94K/yr

If you're hungry to build a varied and meaningful career in a community of brilliant and diverse minds to make a real difference, there's only one choice. NAM Market Development Planner The Market ...

New

Bayer

NAM Market Development Planner

Oxnard, CA · On-site

$63K - $94K/yr

If you're hungry to build a varied and meaningful career in a community of brilliant and diverse minds to make a real difference, there's only one choice. NAM Market Development Planner The Market ...

New

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All JobsCommunity Development Planner JobsCommunity Development Planner Jobs in California

Community Development Planner information

See California salary details

$38K

$72.1K

$99.7K

How much do community development planner jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for community development planner in California is $72,057.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,600.00 and $76,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

A Community Development Planner should have expertise in urban planning, land use policy, and community engagement, typically supported by a degree in urban planning, geography, or a related field. Familiarity with GIS software, zoning regulations, and data analysis tools is essential for effective planning and reporting. Strong interpersonal communication, negotiation, and project management skills help in building consensus and leading diverse stakeholders. These competencies are crucial for creating sustainable, inclusive communities and ensuring successful implementation of development projects.

How does a Community Development Planner typically collaborate with local stakeholders and government agencies?

Community Development Planners work closely with a variety of stakeholders, including local residents, business owners, government agencies, and non-profit organizations. They often facilitate public meetings, gather feedback, and balance diverse interests to develop plans that reflect community needs. Effective collaboration requires strong communication and negotiation skills, as planners serve as liaisons between the public and decision-makers. Building consensus and fostering partnerships are key aspects of the role that can influence the success and sustainability of development projects.

What are Community Development Planners?

Community Development Planners are professionals who work with local governments, nonprofits, and community organizations to design and implement plans that improve neighborhoods and address community needs. They analyze data, engage with residents, and create strategies for housing, transportation, economic development, and public spaces. Their goal is to ensure sustainable and equitable growth, fostering vibrant and inclusive communities. Community Development Planners often collaborate with stakeholders to secure funding, write grants, and oversee project implementation.

What is the difference between Community Development Planner vs Urban Planner?

AspectCommunity Development PlannerUrban Planner
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in urban planning, public administration, or related field; often certification or licensingBachelor's or master's degree in urban planning, geography, or related field; certification may be preferred
Work EnvironmentLocal government agencies, community organizations, non-profitsMunicipal, regional, or private planning firms
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily in local government focusing on community projects and social programsIn government or private sector focusing on city-wide or regional development

Both roles involve planning and development, but Community Development Planners focus more on social programs and community engagement, while Urban Planners handle broader city or regional development strategies. The roles often overlap but differ in scope and focus areas.

What jobs can you do with community development?

Community development professionals can pursue roles such as urban planner, community organizer, economic development specialist, housing coordinator, or policy analyst. These jobs involve planning, project management, stakeholder engagement, and often require knowledge of local regulations and community needs.

What does a community development planner do?

A community development planner is responsible for analyzing community needs, developing plans to improve infrastructure, housing, and public spaces, and working with local governments and stakeholders to implement projects. They use planning tools, data analysis, and public engagement to promote sustainable growth and enhance quality of life in communities.

Where do urban planners get paid the most?

Urban planners tend to earn the highest salaries in metropolitan areas with strong economic activity and high living costs, such as major cities or financial hubs. Salaries can also vary based on experience, education, certifications, and the specific sector they work in, such as government, private consulting, or development firms.

Is there high demand for urban planners?

Community development planners, including urban planners, are in growing demand due to increasing urbanization and the need for sustainable development. Employment is expected to grow faster than average, and professionals with skills in GIS, zoning, and environmental planning are particularly sought after.
What cities in California are hiring for Community Development Planner jobs? Cities in California with the most Community Development Planner job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Community Development Planner jobs in CA? For Community Development Planner jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Community Development Planner jobs near you
Infographic showing various Community Development Planner job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $72,057 per year, or $34.6 per hour.
Assistant Planner - Community Development - Planning

Assistant Planner - Community Development - Planning

City of Lancaster

Lancaster, CA • On-site

$90K - $114K/yr

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago

New

Job description

Closing Date: Tuesday, July 14th at 9:00 PM (PST)Position: Assistant PlannerDepartment: Community DevelopmentAnnual Salary: $90,079.32 - $114,966.80 FLSA: Exempt - Not Overtime Eligible


General Summary:

Performs entry-level work in the field of planning and environmental analysis to support the Community Development Director, including assisting customers at the public counter and performing basic to mid-level planning review.

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

  • Provides information and service to internal staff and the public regarding general procedures, provisions, and applications subject to Planning.
  • Reviews and interprets the Lancaster Municipal Code, specific plans, the Lancaster Design Guidelines, and other regulating documents for the general public, developers, and applicants.
  • Investigates complaints of ordinance violations and advises Community Preservation on the enforcement of such complaints.
  • Reviews and processes all components of planning applications, such as Director’s Reviews, Site Plan Reviews, Conditional Use Permits, and Tentative Tract Maps, including preparation of environmental review documents in compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act and preparation of approval documents.
  • Reviews sign, building, engineering, and landscape plans for compliance with zoning standards and conditions of approval.
  • Attends meetings of, makes presentations to, and works with professional and public groups, including the Planning Commission.
  • Compiles and evaluates data for advanced planning studies related to land use, including office and field research on population trends, community design, and other factors.

The duties listed above are not intended to be all-inclusive. An employee may also perform other related duties as assigned by their immediate supervisor. This position is considered exempt.

Minimum Qualifications:
  • Bachelor’s degree from an accredited university in Planning, Urban Studies, Architecture, Geography, Public Administration, or related field.
  • One (1) year of experience in urban and regional planning or related field.
  • Master’s degree in either Planning or Public Administration and certification by the American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) are highly desirable.
  • Any combination of education and experience that has provided the knowledge and skills necessary for success in the position may be considered.
Core Competencies:
  • Problem Solving – Analytically and logically evaluating information.
  • Learning Agility – Seeking learning opportunities and applying the lessons to work.
  • Handling Stress – Maintaining emotional stability and self-control under pressure, challenge, or adversity.
  • Professional Integrity & Ethics – Displaying honesty, adherence to principles, and personal accountability.
  • Safety Focus – Showing Vigilance and care in identifying and addressing health risks and safety hazards.
  • Customer Focus – Attending to the Needs and expectations of customers.
  • Informing – Proactively obtaining and sharing information.
  • Teamwork – Collaborating with others to achieve shared goals.
  • Valuing Diversity – Appreciating the benefits of varied backgrounds and cultures in the workplace.
  • Allocating Resources – Prioritizing the use of fiscal and material resources to maximize organizational effectiveness.
Guiding Principles:
  1. Put people first.
  2. Be visionary.
  3. Be an ambassador for Lancaster.
  4. Be Fiscally Responsible.
  5. Be Creative.
  6. Always Improving.
  7. Be Adaptable and Resilient.

Essential Physical Requirements:

  • Ascend/Descend stairs/ladders/balance (moderate)
  • Position self to bend or twist (frequent)
  • To move, transport, position items up to 15 lbs. (frequent)
  • Exposed to outdoor weather conditions (infrequent)
  • Operate Equipment (none)
  • Stationary or squatting position (frequent)

Environmental Factors:

  • Work under time pressure (moderate to frequent)
  • Interruptions (frequent)

Essential Cognitive Functions:

  • Analyze (continuous)
  • Computations (frequent)
  • Generate Written Work Product (frequent)
  • Independent Problem Solving (continuous)
  • Interruptions (frequent)
  • Maintain Positive Public Relations (moderate)
  • Organize (frequent)


Disaster Service Worker:


Pursuant to California Government Code Section 3100-3109, all public employees are declared disaster service workers subject to disaster service activities as may be assigned to them in the event of fire, flood, earthquake, or other natural or man-made disaster.


Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job.

Nothing in this job description restricts management’s right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.


The City of Lancaster will consider qualified applicants with a criminal history pursuant to the California Fair Chance Act. You do not need to disclose your criminal history or participate in a background check until a conditional job offer is made to you. After making a conditional offer and running a background check, if the City of Lancaster is concerned about a conviction that is directly related to the job, you will be given the chance to explain the circumstances surrounding the conviction, provide mitigating evidence, or challenge the accuracy of the background report. Find out more about the Fair Chance Act by visiting www.dfeh.ca.gov/fair-chance-act/.