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Community Development Planner Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Senior Planner

Fountain, CO · 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 ...

Senior Planner

Fountain, CO · 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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Showing results 1-20

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 Sep 9, 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 Planning Opportunities

Grand Junction, CO

CITY OF GRAND JUNCTION
201 - 500 employees

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago


City Of Grand Junction rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

177th of 857 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Community Development Planning Opportunities (Senior Planner, Principal Planner)

HIRING RANGE:
Senior Planner: $7,002 - $7,881 Monthly
Principal Planner: $7,5816 - $8,788 Monthly

To watch our Recruitment Video and hear from our team click here.

About the Positions:
The City of Grand Junction is seeking qualified candidates for planning opportunities within our Community Development Department. We are hiring for one or more positions at the Senior Planner and Principal Planner level, with placement based on qualifications, experience, and organizational needs.

Join a collaborative planning team that plays a key role in shaping the future of Colorado's largest city on the Western Slope. From development review and long-range planning to policy development and implementation, our planners work on projects that have a visible impact on the community. You'll have the opportunity to contribute meaningful ideas, take ownership of projects, and work alongside talented professionals who are passionate about thoughtful community development.

About Our Culture:
At the City of Grand Junction, we lead the way with continuous improvement, collaborative partnerships, and exemplary service. Our core values are demonstrated by our willingness to challenge the status quo, ability to work together using all areas of expertise to achieve a common goal, and commitment to fulfilling the needs of our community through thoughtful interactions.

What You'll Do:

  • Help residents, developers, consultants, and City staff navigate planning, zoning, development, and land use processes while providing exceptional customer service.
  • Review development proposals, conduct research and analysis, and prepare recommendations that support thoughtful community growth and compliance with City regulations.
  • Prepare and present reports, ordinances, and recommendations to boards, commissions, City Council, and other stakeholders.
  • Collaborate on planning projects, policy initiatives, and implementation of the Comprehensive Plan and other adopted City plans, with opportunities to lead complex projects based on experience and position level.

To view the full Senior Planner job description, click here.

To view the full Principal Planner job description, click here.

What We're Looking For:

Senior Planner

  • Three years of increasingly responsible urban planning and development experience.
  • Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in planning or related field.

Principal Planner

  • Five years of increasingly responsible urban planning and development experience.
  • Equivalent to a Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in planning or related field.

Other combinations of experience and education that meet the minimum requirements may be substituted.

Notice to Applicants:
In compliance with the Colorado Job Application Fairness Act, we kindly request that youdo not include the dates of your education to include years of attendance or graduation on your application, resume or attachments.

City Employee Health Clinic:

The City is committed to supporting the health and well-being of employees, and their families. Our near-site Sage Health & Wellness Center offers free or low-cost healthcare services for employees and their dependents enrolled in a City health plan. Services include preventative care, health assessments and coaching, treatment for common illnesses, lab services, physical therapy, a medical massage therapist, and behavioral health counseling. The clinic also offers wellness programs, challenges, and classes that empower employees and their families to stay healthy and thrive.
 

Explore the Area:  
Grand Junction, Colorado is the gateway to the mountains and canyonlands of western Colorado and eastern Utah. Centrally located between Denver, CO (250 miles east) and Salt Lake City, UT (270 miles west), Grand Junction is surrounded by 1.2 million acres of public land. Residents enjoy world-class whitewater rafting on the Colorado and Green Rivers, golfing, fishing, skiing and snowboarding, and exploring mountain bike and hiking trails through the Colorado National Monument and the Grand Mesa National Forest. Grand Junction has a robust downtown and hosts multiple art, music, food, and market events annually. With a population of over 150,000 in Mesa County (65,000 within the City limits) we have many of the big town amenities without the big town stresses such as traffic and trail congestion. With an average of 245 days of sunshine, Grand Junction is the perfect place to work and play. 

Learn more about our area on Visit Grand Junction's website and Instagram!

At the City of Grand Junction, we proudly operate as an Equal Opportunity Employer, purposely building an inclusive workforce representative of various cultures, perspectives, and experiences. We believe in respect for all and do not discriminate based on hair, race, color, religion, creed, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, gender expression and sexual orientation), national origin, age (40 or older), disability, genetic information, marital status, veteran status or any other status protected by applicable federal, state or local law.

If you have any questions or need assistance or accommodations due to a disability, please contact our Human Resources office at 970.244.1512.

What We Offer:

We know that a healthy and happy workforce is a thriving workforce, which is why we offer a comprehensive benefits package that supports quality work-life harmony, including 32 days of paid annual leave to be used for personal and/or sick days, 11 paid holidays, health insurance options, employer-matched retirement, a City employee health clinic, a City employee child care center, wellness program, and an Employee Assistance Program. Of equal importance, we offer an opportunity to serve the community you love and live in. Our employees find their work rewarding and fulfilling, knowing that their day job makes a positive impact.


To view more information about our benefits visit: https://www.gjcity.org/333/Employee-Benefits
The Community Development Department develops, implements, and modifies City plans and regulations and maintains information related to zoning, setbacks, and land use.

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