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Community Development Planner Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Gloucester County

Planner I, II or III

Gloucester, VA · On-site

$48K - $88K/yr

Planner II - Three (3) to five (5) years of experience in planning, zoning and community development work preferred. Planner III - Five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in planning ...

City of Colonial Heights, VA

Planner

Colonial Heights, VA · On-site

$52K - $79K/yr

Coordinates and assists with the implementation of various City programs and plans for the Planning & Community Development Department. Examples of Duties * Assists the Director and Assistant ...

Gloucester County, VA

Planner I, II or III

Gloucester, VA · On-site

$58K - $88K/yr

Planner II - Three (3) to five (5) years of experience in planning, zoning and community development work preferred. Planner III - Five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in planning ...

RPMGlobal

Land Development Manager

Herndon, VA · On-site

$86K - $119K/yr

As a leader of our Land Development Manager, you will oversee entire land development planning process for all assigned communities including: organizing, budgeting, and monitoring of various phases ...

County Of Albemarle

Senior Planner

Charlottesville, VA · On-site

Senior Planner I/II Department of Community Development Full-Time, 12 Months Exempt, Pay Grade 33/34 VRS-Eligible, Benefits-Eligible **Please note: This position may be filled as a Senior Planner I ...

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Community Development Planner information

See Virginia salary details

$38.2K

$72.4K

$100.1K

How much do community development planner jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for community development planner in Virginia is $72,387.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,900.00 and $76,800.00 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 VA?

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

Community Development Planner jobs near you
Infographic showing various Community Development Planner job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $72,387 per year, or $34.8 per hour.

Neighborhood Development Planner

Williamsburg, VA

JAMES CITY COUNTY
Public Administration • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about JAMES CITY COUNTYexternal

$68K - $107K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Develops, implements, and evaluates comprehensive housing and community development projects, policies, and procedures.

  • Manages funding opportunities, including grant applications and project oversight, to support neighborhood development and affordable housing.

  • Facilitates property acquisition processes, including working with legal and technical teams to procure appraisals, research titles, and draft contracts.

James City County rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

768th of 858 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

Neighborhood Development Planner

Apply now Job no: 40000424
Work type: Full Time
Location: Williamsburg
Categories: Professional

Job Summary

$68,611 - $107,562 / year DOQ + Full-Time County Benefits 

Performs advanced work developing, implementing, and evaluating comprehensive housing and community development projects, policies, and procedures in accordance with federal, state, and County regulations.
This position is for a career-minded individual seeking to provide affordable housing at the local level. The position is responsible for acquiring and utilizing multiple federal, state and local funding sources to solicit help from design professionals, navigate the development review process, and provide project management to develop neighborhoods and build housing affordable primarily to households earning less than 80% AMI.

Responsibilities

Conducts research, analyzes data, and provides recommendations regarding potential affordable housing projects.
Writes grant applications and reviews and provides policy advice to staff for grant applications; gathers and analyzes data regarding demographics, neighborhood needs, and cost estimating projects.
Manages funding opportunities such as Community Development Block Grant programs and projects that include record keeping, staff and citizen relations, and engineering and construction oversight to successfully complete projects.
Prepares reports, memorandums, and other correspondence in support of programs and grants.
Facilitates property acquisition in accordance with federal and state laws and County policy, including working closely with the County Attorney to procure appraisals, research titles, and draft purchase contracts and closing documents; reviews other technical and legal contracts, agreements, and documents in coordination with the County Attorney's Office.
Assists to develop, evaluate, and implement the Neighborhood Development Division goals, objectives, policies, and procedures in accordance with federal, state, and County regulations and policies.
Assists to develop and monitor Neighborhood Development Division budget, program, and grant budgets.

Qualifications:

Any combination of education and experience equivalent to a bachelor's degree with major course work in planning, real estate, public or business administration, or related field; AICP and/or considerable experience in property acquisition, community development, and management are preferred.
Knowledge of County and departmental goals and policy as well as federal, state, and local laws, rules and regulations governing affordable housing; community development; real estate law and practice; construction methods, procurement; federal labor standards; zoning; planning and code enforcement; principles and practices of administrative management; fiscal and budgetary principles; and leadership techniques.
Skill in use of computer software including Microsoft Office Suite and ArcGIS Pro.
Ability to work with citizen groups to explain complicated projects, obtain useful feedback, develop consensus, and obtain commitments for participation; negotiate fair and favorable property acquisition contracts; communicate effectively orally and in writing; establish and maintain professional working relationships.
Must possess, or be able to obtain within 30 days of hire, a valid Virginia driver's license and have an acceptable driving record based on James City County's criteria.

Click here for full job description. Accepting applications until position is filled. Cover letters and resumes may also be attached, but a fully completed application is required for your application to be considered.

James City County is dedicated to building a diverse workforce and is committed to providing reasonable accommodations. If you need assistance with completing the employment application, please contact the HR Department at 757-253-6680 or email HR.Recruit@jamescitycountyva.gov.

Advertised: 04 Aug 2026 Eastern Daylight Time
Applications close:

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