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Community Development Planner Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

City of Hampton, VA

Deputy Zoning Administrator

Hampton, VA · On-site

$66K - $86K/yr

As a key member of the Community Development Department, you will collaborate with the Development Services Center and Planning & Zoning Administration divisions to ensure timely and accurate service ...

Pherson

Training Program Planner - Senior

Springfield, VA · On-site

$100K - $125K/yr

... development planning. The position requires strong leadership, strategic planning, and coordination skills to implement programs, track performance, and ensure alignment with community-wide training ...

Pherson

Training Program Planner - Senior

Springfield, VA · On-site

$100K - $125K/yr

... development planning. The position requires strong leadership, strategic planning, and coordination skills to implement programs, track performance, and ensure alignment with community-wide training ...

Pherson

Training Program Planner - Senior

Springfield, VA · On-site

$100K - $125K/yr

... development planning. The position requires strong leadership, strategic planning, and coordination skills to implement programs, track performance, and ensure alignment with community-wide training ...

Powhatan County

Director of Planning

Powhatan, VA · On-site

$115K - $130K/yr

Knowledge of community development principles and practices. Knowledge of the county's zoning and ... Skill in directing planning and zoning operations. Skill in reading and interpreting site plans ...

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All JobsCommunity Development Planner JobsCommunity Development Planner Jobs in Virginia

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 Aug 20, 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.

Principal Planer - Comprehensive Planning

Hanover County, VA

Hanover, VA • On-site

$86K - $107K/yr

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Salary: $86,580.00 - $107,000.00 Annually
Location : Hanover Courthouse, Hanover, VA
Job Type: Full-time
Job Number: 202600169
Department: Planning Department
Opening Date: 08/14/2026
Closing Date: Continuous
Description
The Hanover County Planning Department is seeking a dynamic and experienced Planning professional with a passion for community engagement to lead the County's long range planning initiatives, including updates to the Comprehensive Plan and Small Area Plans. This exciting leadership opportunity offers a chance to guide future growth through thoughtful planning and meaningful public involvement. If you are ready to make a lasting impact and help shape what comes next for Hanover County, we encourage you to apply.
General Description:
This is a professional mid-management position and is part of the Planning Department's Management Staff team. The Principal Planner/Project Manager, depending upon their specific role within the Planning Department will either be responsible for (1) managing department functions related to comprehensive/long-range planning or (2) managing site plan and subdivision review. A key responsibility of this position is to monitor the various processes to which the position is assigned and intervene when appropriate to resolve conflicts which could delay a project. The position may serve as a member of a management team with representatives from other departments and/or citizen groups to accomplish project objectives.
Organization
The Principal Planner - Comprehensive Planning position reports to the Deputy Director and supervises staff as assigned.
Principal Planner - Comprehensive Planning
This position will be primarily responsible for managing long-range planning efforts, including comprehensive plan amendments and updates, ordinance amendments, and the development of small area plans. They would also assist in the review zoning applications and Historic Commission. Due to the nature of these duties, experience in public engagement, graphic design, and/or GIS are preferred.
Essential Functions:
  • Manages comprehensive/long-range planning efforts, including comprehensive plan updates, small area plans, and ordinance amendments.
  • Provides technical expertise and reviews zoning applications (including Conditional Use Permits and Special Exceptions) as needed.
  • Supervises staff as directed by the Deputy Director.
  • Tracks and reports progress of projects.
  • Acts as Liaison to other review departments, agencies and citizens wishing to know the current disposition of a project.
  • With Project Managers from other departments, resolves issues that may delay processes or acts as conduit to get necessary information/interpretations from appropriate authorities.

Working Conditions:
  • Hazards
    1. None Known
  • Environment
    1. Office - 80%
    2. Field - 20%
  • Physical Effort
    1. Minimal
  • FLSA Status
    1. Exempt

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
  • Thorough knowledge of the principles and practices of comprehensive planning, zoning, and community development activities, including an understanding of engineering and construction as they pertain to the site development processes.

  • Thorough knowledge of the relationship between comprehensive/long-range planning and public policy.
  • Ability to plan, organize, supervise, and carry out complex research projects and present results effectively in oral, written, and graphic form.
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with County officials, residents, businesses, developers, and other stakeholders actively involved in land use planning, including the ability to plan and execute public engagement activities.
  • Ability to supervise professional and technical personnel assisting with comprehensive/long-range planning efforts, including consultants providing technical assistance as part of a contracted project.

Education, Experience and Training:
Bachelor's degree, required. Master's Degree in Urban Planning, landscape architecture, or public administration preferred. Professional licensure in related field may be substituted for Master's Degree. Five years of experience in professional planning, development, or any equivalent combination of education, experience and/or training sufficient to demonstrate the required knowledge, skills and abilities. Supervisory experience preferred.
Special Conditions:
  • Criminal Records Check, including fingerprinting

  • Valid Commonwealth of Virginia Driver's License
  • Twelve-month probationary period

Special Instructions to Applicants
Please provide a resume and cover letter with your application.
SUMMARY OF EMPLOYEE BENEFITS
Hanover County is proud to provide our employees with the following comprehensive benefits package. Hanover provides a benefit package that provides for you in times of need, they offer an ongoing level of financial security, peace-of-mind, and healthy work-life balance. This is part of our goal to make Hanover County an attractive place to work. To see exactly what you will find with our offerings, click the link below:
Benefits | Hanover County, VAThis is an overview and does not provide all provisions, limitations, and exclusions. If there is a contradiction between this and the official plan documents, the plan documents will prevail. The Pamunkey Regional Jail and Library share some of the County benefits, please visit their website for more details.
01
Please describe why you are interested in this position and how it fits in with your career goals.
02
Describe your project management experience including comprehensive plan updates, etc.
03
Describe your experience with public engagement and outreach.
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