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Community Development Planner Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

Community Development Director

Apopka, FL · On-site

$131K - $206K/yr

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, & ABILITIESKnowledge of local zoning and planning, ordinances, policies ... community development efforts. Knowledge of land development codes, comprehensive plans, building ...

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Community Development Planner information

See Florida salary details

$28.8K

$54.6K

$75.5K

How much do community development planner jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for community development planner in Florida is $54,562.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,400.00 and $57,900.00 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 FL?

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

Infographic showing various Community Development Planner job openings in Florida as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,562 per year, or $26.2 per hour.

Community Development Director

Apopka, FL • On-site

$131K - $206K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 10 hours ago


Job description

GENERAL DESCRIPTION
This is a highly responsible executive position involving the management of City planning and zoning, City engineering, building safety, and economic development plans, programs, and services. Work is performed under the general direction of the City Administrator, with considerable independent judgment to ensure compliance with City codes and state and federal laws.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
The following essential functions represent the primary duties of this position but should not be considered an all-inclusive list of responsibilities. Other duties may be required and assigned.
  • Direct the development of short and long term community development and support economic development throughout the City.
  • Develop and implement long-term plans aligned with local government priorities and community needs.
  • Develop and implement department budgets to allocate resources effectively and ensure fiscal accountability.
  • Administer the City's Comprehensive Plan and Land Development Code to ensure compliance for development and redevelopment within the City.
  • Oversee building safety and code enforcement to ensure public safety and code compliance.
  • Build and maintain professional relationships with community stakeholders, organizations, and businesses to ensure professional and efficient community development services are provided.
  • Direct, lead, develop, and manage an effective and efficient team of professionals to provide high quality community development services to residents, businesses, and visitors.
  • Represent the department at public hearings, city council meetings, community forums, and regional planning bodies.
  • Performs any other duties or tasks that may be assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, & ABILITIES
  • Knowledge of local zoning and planning, ordinances, policies, regulations, and pertinent information relating to city codes.
  • Knowledge of applicable state and federal laws/regulations
  • Knowledge of best practices for municipal community development efforts.
  • Knowledge of land development codes, comprehensive plans, building codes, and Florida statutes related to land development and planning.
  • Ability to guide complex projects and align initiatives with community goals.
  • Ability to lead multiple divisions of specialized professional staff.
  • Ability to communicate clearly and concisely, both verbally and in writing; to read and interpret development plans; to draft ordinances, resolution, and legal advertisements.
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective and amiable working relationships with elected and appointed officials, news media, leadership, supervisors, residents, customers, employees, other departments, and agencies.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered, provided that the education and experience are in a relevant and related field.
  • Graduate with Master's degree in land planning or a related field; or equivalent experience.
  • AICP certification (American Institute of Certified Planners)
  • Considerable, progressive experience in economic development, planning, zoning and public administration.
  • Valid Florida Driver's license. A valid out of state License is acceptable, but selected candidates must obtain and provide a valid Florida driver's license within thirty (30) days of start date.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Experience in public speaking and presentation.

JOB LOCATION
  • City Hall Annex. Occasional travel is required.

ADDITIONAL POSITION INFORMATION
  • Physical Requirements: Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer, occasional standing, walking, bending/twisting, pushing/pulling up to 10 lbs., lifting up-to 10 lbs.
  • Environmental Conditions: Exposure to dim or bright lights. Minimal exposure to inclement weather.
  • Sensory Requirements: Some tasks require the ability to perceive and discriminate visual cues or signals. Some tasks require the ability to communicate orally.

DISCLAIMER:
The City of Apopka reserves the right to fill positions prior to the closing date and also reserves the right to close the posting prior to the date indicated. Positions will be filled by competitive selection from among categories of qualified and available candidates. It is the policy of the City of Apopka to give first consideration to all employees and other internal applicants prior to considering external (outside) applicants. Applicants should expect a starting salary at the minimum of the pay grade range; applicants with exceptional qualifications and/or experience may be eligible for a rate of pay which is higher than the range minimum upon approval by Administration. Your social security number is requested for the purpose of payroll eligibility verification, processing employment benefits, applicant and employee background checks, and income reporting and will be used solely for those purposes. The City of Apopka participates in E-Verify. Employers are required by federal law to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States. We utilize the E-Verify system to process our new hires. We provide information to the Social Security Administration and, if necessary, the Department of Homeland Security with Information from each new employee's Form I-9 to confirm work authorization.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER:
The City of Apopka is an Equal Opportunity Employer that recognizes a moral, ethical, and legal responsibility to provide fair and equitable consideration of applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, ancestry, age, national origin, place of birth, sexual orientation, of other non-job-related factors. As such, the City of Apopka affirms its commitment to a policy not only of nondiscrimination, but also to a process of equal employment opportunity in all departments of City government to ensure that employment is extended to all qualified persons. When requested, the City of Apopka will make reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities. We comply with all applicable laws and actively promote fairness and equity in our employment practices.
ADA Statement: The City of Apopka is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer committed to achieving excellence and strength through diversity. The City seeks a wide range of applicants for its positions so that one of our core values, a qualified and diverse workforce, will be affirmed. Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliance requires the City to provide reasonable invited to discuss accommodations.