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Community Development Planner Jobs in California

County of Monterey

Senior Planner

Salinas, CA

The Housing and Community Development (HCD) Department seeks Senior Planners who are results oriented individuals with a strong grasp of the principles and practices associated with land use planning ...

Stantec

Community Development Civil Engineer

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$107K - $155K/yr

They're thoughtfully planned and future-ready. We bring life to urban downtowns, suburban hubs, small towns, and rural areas through master-planned communities, mixed-use developments, parks, and ...

Stantec

Community Development Civil Engineer

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$107K - $155K/yr

They're thoughtfully planned and future-ready. We bring life to urban downtowns, suburban hubs, small towns, and rural areas through master-planned communities, mixed-use developments, parks, and ...

City of Concord, CA

Associate/Senior Planner

Concord, CA · On-site

$101K - $145K/yr

Community Development Opening Date: 06/22/2026 Closing Date: 7/13/2026 11:59 PM Pacific Bargaining ... Associate/ Senior Planner The City of Concord's Community Development Department is currently ...

Stantec

Community Development Civil Engineer

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$107K - $155K/yr

They're thoughtfully planned and future-ready. We bring life to urban downtowns, suburban hubs, small towns, and rural areas through master-planned communities, mixed-use developments, parks, and ...

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Community Development Planner information

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$38K

$72.1K

$99.7K

How much do community development planner jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 13, 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.

DIR OF PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT

Cabazon Band of Cahuilla Indians

Indio, CA

Other

Re-posted 7 days ago

Job description

Description

Summary:

Provides senior governmental leadership, responsible for directing planning and community development functions in alignment with Tribal sovereignty, Tribal policy direction, and long-term stewardship goals. Tribal planning includes, strategic planning, master planning, capital improvement planning, land use planning, and support for economic development and community prosperity. 


Essential Duties and Responsibilities include:

  • Direct the development, implementation, and periodic updates of the Tribe's comprehensive plan, land use plans and community development strategies. 
  • Ensure planning effort align with Tribal priorities, cultural values and long-term vision. 
  • Provide regular communications with Tribal Council and the Planning Committee regarding business/economic issues affecting the real estate portfolio. 
  • Ensure land use administration, document management and control is performed in accordance with Tribal General Plans, Specific Plans, policies and compliance standards.
  • Implement the Business Permitting Process.  
  • Manage lease and management Tracts. 
  • Maintain Government mapping systems and document retention systems. 
  • Review and approve capital improvement projects.  
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills. Ability to effectively delegate, and negotiate. 


This position is not limited to those duties listed in the job description. Duties and responsibilities can be changed, expanded, reduced or deleted to meet business needs of the company 

Requirements

  • Minimum 5-7 years of progressively responsible professional experience in planning, communication development, land use infrastructure planning, environmental coordination, economic development, or related governmental functions. 
  • Minimum 3 years of management or senior supervisory responsibility. 
  • Direct experience working for a Tribal government, Tribal department, Tribal enterprise, Tribal consortium, or in sustained coordination with Tribal agencies or Tribal communities is strongly preferred. 
  • Demonstrated experience with Tribal land use, long-range planning, capital improvement planning, strategic planning, community development, housing, transportation, infrastructure, natural resources or economic development. 
  • Experience with grant development, grant administration, consultant management, and implementation reporting. 
  • Experience coordinating with federal, state, county, regional, and municipal agencies. 
  • Must be able to obtain high level security clearance. 


Recommended Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

The successful candidate should demonstrate knowledge of: 

  • Current and long-range planning principles and practices. 
  • Land use, zoning, development review, and community development. 
  • Strategic planning and capital improvement planning. 
  • Public sector budgeting, grants, procurement, and contract administration. 
  • Environmental review, and stewardship, and infrastructure planning. 
  • Principles of supervision, staff development, and departmental management. 
  • Tribal governance, sovereignty, and cultural informed planning practice. 

Candidate should also be able to:  

  • Lead and manage a planning or community development department. 
  • Supervise professional, technical and administrative staff. 
  • Translate Tribal Council and Administration priorities into work programs, plans, ordinances, budgets, and projects. 
  • Coordinate effectively with housing, environmental, natural resources, public works, legal, finance, and economic development functions. 
  • Prepare and present recommendations to Tribal leadership and community stakeholders 
  • Represent the Tribe in intergovernmental meetings, negotiations and collaborative initiatives. 


Education:

  • Bachelors' degree from an accredited college or university in urban planning, regional planning, public administration, community development, geography, architecture, natural resources or a closely related field. 
  • Masters' degree in planning, public administration, community development, environmental policy, natural resources or a related field preferred. 


Work Environment:

Employees working in the Casino or Bowling Center may be exposed to second-hand smoke and moderate levels of noise. The employee is occasionally exposed to moving mechanical equipment. The employee may occasionally lift and or move up to 50 pounds.  


Apply