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Community Development Planner Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Identifies new and amended legislation, regulations, and policies to contribute to more effective operation of community development and planning activities; drafts and presents proposed ordinances ...

Senior Planner

Fountain, CO ยท On-site

$74K - $99K/yr

Identifies new and amended legislation, regulations, and policies to contribute to more effective operation of community development and planning activities; drafts and presents proposed ordinances ...

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Community Development Planner information

See Colorado salary details

$40.5K

$76.8K

$106.2K

How much do community development planner jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for community development planner in Colorado is $76,775.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $71,000.00 and $81,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a community development planner?

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.

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 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.

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.

How do you become a community development planner?

To become a community development planner, typically a bachelor's degree in urban planning, public administration, or a related field is required. Gaining experience through internships or entry-level planning positions, and obtaining certification such as the American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP), can enhance job prospects and professional credibility.

What can you do with a community development planner degree?

A community development planner degree prepares individuals for roles in urban and regional planning, focusing on improving community infrastructure, housing, and public spaces. Graduates can work for government agencies, non-profit organizations, or private consulting firms, often utilizing GIS tools and planning regulations to develop sustainable community projects.

What jobs can you do with community development planner?

A community development planner can work in roles such as urban planner, regional planner, zoning officer, or policy analyst, focusing on land use, community growth, and sustainable development. These positions often require skills in GIS software, public consultation, and knowledge of local regulations. They may be employed by government agencies, non-profit organizations, or private consulting firms.

What are popular job titles related to Community Development Planner jobs in CO?

For Community Development Planner jobs in CO, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Community Development Planner job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $76,775 per year, or $36.9 per hour.

Community Development Principal Planner

Town of Frisco

Frisco, CO โ€ข On-site

$82K - $103K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago


Job description

Job Description The Principal Planner is a full-time, on-site, year-round exempt/salaried position which initiates and implements community development programs and services along with performing professional planning duties of high complexity and variety. The Principal Planner is a manager and provides guidance to the Planners and Technician providing actionable constructive feedback on deliverables and coaches staff through complex challenges. The Principal Planner is able to exercise independence and judgment, receiving general supervision from senior management.

This position leads, and is significantly involved with larger, more complex current planning applications, master planning projects and other long-range planning or special projects as assigned. The Principal Planner may engage in negotiations on behalf of the Town regarding special projects, contracts and related project management. Projects assigned to a Principal Planner are typically more complex projects that demand creativity and may have significant public relations challenges.

Budgeted hiring wage range = $82,887.372 - $103,609.216 Full wage range*=Min: $82,887.372, Mid: $103,609.216, Max: $124,331.059 *wage offer based on specific job experience and education Responsibilities Essential Functions Reviews and manages complex planning studies, development applications (zoning, PUDs, large development applications, subdivision plats, etc.) to determine conformance and appropriateness with regards to the Town's goals, Comprehensive Plan, and Code requirements. Assesses the compliance of proposals with applicable plans, regulations, ordinances, and policies, and prepares and presents professional staff reports to the Planning Commission and Town Council. Manage Planning and Technician Staff, including conducting performance evaluations, managing workflows, and resolving workplace conflicts to maintain productivity and workforce satisfaction

Prepares and presents information including PowerPoint presentations at Town Council, Planning Commission, or other meetings, workshops and events to explain land use options, projects, and programs. Creates printed and digital information materials; writes and produces letters, public notices, forms, and articles for Town newsletters. Responds to public inquiries via phone and e-mail, and in-person meetings relating to planning processes, proposed developments, code requirements and building permit application procedures.

Assigns and reviews work, advises on problems/issues and reviews work for accuracy and completeness. Prepares grants. Conducts special projects and performs related work as assigned.

Ability to function and make good decisions in the absence of a supervisor. Works under broad direction with minimal functional oversight. Informed guidance is available to achieve objectives.

Assists the Community Development Director in managing the day-to-day operations of the Community Development Department and performing certain duties of the Director in his/her absence. Communicates in a professional, courteous and timely manner both verbally and written when dealing with Town of Frisco Employees,citizens, customers andvendors. Responsible for staff selection, training and performance management process.

Marginal Duties Develop detailed project plans, including scope of work and project budget, prepare RFQs / RFPs, administer consultant/contractor selection process, and oversee contract expenditures and compliance. Investigate and track citizen-initiated zoning complaints, conduct field inspections to identify potential code violations, and facilitate compliance through follow-up notices, correspondence, and case documentation. Prepares reports on town and department operations and activities, recommending improvements and modifications.

Performs complex and diverse administrative, technical, analytical and professional work and administrative tasks including public assistance and customer service, data and budget management, and research related to housing. Works in regional program areas relating to climate change, natural/water resources planning, community development, hazard mitigation, etc. Other Essential Responsibilities: This position requires regular and reliable in-person attendance at the designated worksite as an essential function of the job.

As a public servant, physical presence is necessary to effectively perform essential duties, support operational needs, collaborate with team members, provide direct service to the public and internal stakeholders, utilize on-site equipment and resources, and maintain effective communication, responsiveness, and accountability in serving the community. Adheres to Town of Frisco policies, mission, vision, values, competencies, standards, and regulations including but not limited to proper attire, safety procedures, and overall professionalism. Attends Town and departmental training and meetings as appropriate or assigned.

Ability to function and make good decisions in the absence of a supervisor. Communicates with Town of Frisco employees, citizens, customers and vendors in a professional, courteous and timely manner both verbally and in writing. Performs other job duties/responsibilities as assigned by management.

Employees are held accountable for all duties of this job, demonstrates accountability for work, and takes ownership in job performance. Requirements Specific knowledge, skills and abilities needed for position: Area Comments Education: Preferred: Bachelor's Degree in urban planning, urban design, natural resources planning, architecture, public administration or a closely related field preferred; or equivalent experience. Computer Operations: Required: Microsoft Office software Preferred: Geographic Information Systems (GIS) software preferred Preferred: Bluebeam software Preferred: Permit Tracking Software experience Licenses, Certifications or Accreditations: Required: CPR/AED & First Aid Certification (or ability to obtain within the first 6 months or 1 month if seasonal/temporary position.

Training provided by the Town.) Required: Colorado Driver's License with an acceptable driving record. Preferred: Member of the American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) Previous Work Experience: Required: At least eight (8) years prior experience in the field of community development or a closely related field. Including two (2) or more years of GIS experience preferred

Previous Supervisory Exercised: Preferred: Minimum two years supervisory experience. Language Ability: Required: Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively in English, both verbally and in writing. Decision Making Ability: Required: Demonstrated ability to function independently and make sound and reasonable decisions in the absence of supervisory guidance.

Other: Required: Ability to pass a background investigation. Required: Public speaking and effective writing skills. Preferred: Local, county, or applicable consulting planning work where the majority of work was with municipal clients.

Physical Demands Weight LIFTING The job require weight to be lifted or force to be exerted. Below states how much and how often. Activities OTHER PHYSICAL ACTIVITIES REQUIRED: Job time spent performing the following is stated below.

Up to 10 Pounds 2/3 OR MORE Standing 1/3 to 2/3 Up to 25 Pounds UP TO 1/3 Walking 1/3 to 2/3 Up to 50 Pounds UP TO 1/3 Sitting 2/3 OR MORE Up to 100 Pounds None Using hands to finger, hands to feel 2/3 OR MORE More than 100 Pounds None Reaching with hands and arms 2/3 OR MORE Climb or balance UP TO 1/3 Stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl UP TO 1/3 Talk or hear 2/3 OR MORE Taste or smell None OTHER PHYSICAL ACTIVITIES REQUIREMENTS OR PHYSICAL DEMANDS: Indoor/Outdoor: Indoor and outdoor with the ability to work in all weather conditions. Holidays/Weekends/Evenings: Evening meetings with Planning Commission on the first and third Thursday of each month as well as occasional evening meetings with Town Council held on the second and fourth Thursday of each month. Equipment Used in Job: Shared Town vehicle pool, computer, phone, printer, copier, fax, scanner VISION: Specific vision requirements for this job are stated below.

Close Vision: Yes Distance Vision: No Color Vision: Yes Peripheral Vision: No Depth Perception: No Ability to adjust focus: Yes Additional Information Position Title: Principal Planner Department: Community Development Cost Center: 1119 Employee Type: Year-round, Full-time Pay Type/FLSA: Exempt / Salary Pay Grade: Pay Grade 8 Reports to: Community Development Director Frequent internal contacts: Town Manager Human Resources Community Development Staff Frequent external contacts: Architects Owner's Representatives Number of employees under supervision and titles: Planner I, Planner II, Community Development Technician Job Location: Onsite Why work for the Town of Frisco as the Principal Planner. There are many reasons. Some amazing incentives are the convenience of a clean car year-round with a FREE car wash, free recycling, trash, and compost pick up.

Summer incentives include free paddle sports, a free 2-hour pontoon/fishing boat rental reservation (one per employee) and free boat rentals if not rented for the final rental of the day. Winter incentives include free tubing at the Frisco Adventure Park, free Nordic Center passes for employee and family, free Terrain Park pass, friends and family passes for tubing, Copper Mountain discounted season passes, Copper Mountain free daily lift ticket voucher program for employee and half off for dependents. Want to know more.

Check out the benefits tab above. And of course, don't forget to apply to take advantage of the cool perks and the amazing opportunity that awaits you. This job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities or qualifications associated with the job.

Other duties may be assigned. The Town of Frisco is dedicated to the principles of equal employment opportunity. We prohibit unlawful discrimination against applicants or employees on the basis of age 40 and over, race (including traits historically associated with race, such as hair texture and length, protective hairstyles), sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, color, religion, national origin, disability, military status, genetic information, marital status, or any other status protected by applicable state or local law.