2

Entry Level City Planner Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

This is an EXCITING time to Join the City of Richmond We are committed to nurturing talent ... This is an entry-level position that will provide reviews of building permits Duties include but ...

Empowerment Coach

Richmond, VA · On-site

$47K - $88K/yr

This is an EXCITING time to Join the City of Richmond We are committed to nurturing talent ... Planning & Support: Help individuals map out clear career pathways and connect them with ...

Empowerment Coach

Richmond, VA · On-site

$47K - $88K/yr

City Hall, 900 East Broad Street, Richmond, VA Job Type: Full-Time Job Number: 89M00000040 ... Planning & Support: * Help individuals map out clear career pathways and connect them with ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Entry Level City Planner information

See Virginia salary details

$32.7K

$69K

$112K

How much do entry level city planner jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level city planner in Virginia is $68,994.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,500.00 and $80,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level city planner do?

An entry level city planner assists in the development and implementation of plans and policies for land use in urban, suburban, and rural areas. Their responsibilities typically include gathering and analyzing data, preparing reports and maps, and helping with public meetings or hearings. They work under the supervision of more experienced planners and contribute to projects related to zoning, transportation, community development, and environmental planning. This role helps ensure that communities grow in a sustainable and organized way.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level city planner, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level City Planner, you need foundational knowledge in urban planning, land use, and zoning regulations, typically supported by a bachelor’s degree in urban planning, geography, or a related field. Familiarity with GIS software, Microsoft Office, and city planning databases is commonly required. Strong written and verbal communication, analytical thinking, and collaboration skills help you work effectively with diverse stakeholders and public agencies. These competencies are essential for designing sustainable communities, balancing stakeholder interests, and navigating the regulatory environment.

What are some typical challenges faced by entry level city planners when working on community development projects?

Entry level city planners often encounter challenges such as balancing diverse stakeholder interests, navigating complex zoning regulations, and ensuring that proposed plans align with both community needs and municipal guidelines. They may also need to quickly adapt to shifting project priorities and manage time effectively across multiple assignments. Collaborating with more experienced planners, engineers, and public officials helps them overcome these obstacles and develop practical solutions.

What is the difference between Entry Level City Planner vs Junior Urban Planner?

AspectEntry Level City PlannerJunior Urban Planner
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in urban planning, geography, or related fieldBachelor's degree in urban planning, geography, or related field
Work EnvironmentMunicipal government, planning agencies, consulting firmsMunicipal government, planning agencies, consulting firms
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly employed in city planning departmentsUsed interchangeably in similar settings
Search & Comparison IntentYes, often compared for entry-level rolesYes, similar job level and responsibilities

Both Entry Level City Planners and Junior Urban Planners typically require a bachelor's degree in urban planning or related fields. They work in similar environments such as municipal governments and planning agencies. The terms are often used interchangeably for entry-level roles, making them comparable in job searches and industry usage.

How to become an entry level city planner with no experience?

To become an entry-level city planner with no experience, candidates should pursue a relevant bachelor's degree such as urban planning, geography, or public administration. Gaining skills in GIS software, data analysis, and community engagement through internships, volunteering, or coursework can improve job prospects; some positions may also require or prefer certification from professional planning organizations.

Is it hard to get a job as an entry level city planner?

Entry level city planner positions can be competitive, often requiring a relevant degree in urban planning, geography, or related fields, along with internships or related experience. Strong skills in GIS software, communication, and knowledge of local regulations can improve job prospects, but entry-level roles are generally accessible to recent graduates with the right qualifications.

What qualifications do I need to be an entry level city planner?

Entry level city planners typically need a bachelor's degree in urban planning, geography, environmental design, or a related field. Strong analytical, communication, and computer skills, along with knowledge of planning software like GIS, are also important; some positions may prefer or require a relevant internship or certification such as AICP certification.

What are the most commonly searched types of City Planner jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of City Planner jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Entry Level City Planner jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Entry Level City Planner job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level City Planner job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 56% Full Time, 42% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $68,994 per year, or $33.2 per hour.

Planner Associate - Zoning

City of Richmond

Richmond, VA • On-site

$53K - $66K/yr

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

Are you Richmond R.E.A.D.Y. Respect. Equity

Accountability. Diversity...YOU!!. This is an EXCITING time to Join the City of Richmond

We are committed to nurturing talent, fostering growth opportunities, and building strong connections within our workforce. As we continue to make strides to becoming the employer of choice, we are thrilled about the below employee benefit enhancements: Virginia Retirement System (VRS) Language Incentive Referral Bonus Tuition Assistance Program Description ** The maximum hiring compensation for this position is to not exceed a hourly rate of $33.23076/hour.** The Department of Planning & Development Review is currently seeking a Planner Associate who will be responsible for responsible for reviewing building and zoning permits, inspecting property within the City limits for proper adherence to zoning regulations and the issuing of notices and summonses of violations. This is an entry-level position that will provide reviews of building permits

Duties include but are not limited to Investigate properties for zoning and other City Code violations Provide professional interpretation of and technical assistance related to the zoning and other related ordinances of the City Code Respond to inquiries from and provide correspondence to the public regarding zoning complaints, violations, inspections, and other matters with a high level of customer service by phone, in writing, and in person Searching court records, land use records, and other documents Research permits for compliance with zoning ordinances Prepare for court cases related to zoning enforcement, including preparing evidence required for court hearings, appearing in court, and presenting testimony, as needed Attending and presenting at meetings and hearings, at times during non-business hours Examining site plans to verify zoning requirements and processing related permits Research and preparation of code amendments Performing other related duties as assigned Qualifications, Special Certifications and Licenses KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES: Basic knowledge and application of planning and zoning, site plans, commercial and residential building plans, real estate, and development regulations Basic understanding of engineering principals, land use and zoning law, landscape architecture, architecture, and construction methods Basic knowledge of zoning, subdivision and site development ordinances Knowledge of re-zoning and special use permit processes General knowledge of Plan of Development and Subdivision review processes Skills in providing excellent customer service, including dealing with difficult customers Being a clear and effective facilitator, including public speaking skills and defending recommendations/positions Negotiating and balancing the needs of citizens with economic demands, health and human service needs, goals of private corporations, and land use regulations; and, conducting research Ability to analyze information; pay attention to detail Communicate planning and local government policy issues to a range of audiences MINIMUM TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE: Bachelor's degree in city/urban planning, civil or environmental engineering, architecture, landscape architecture, real estate, law, or a related field Three years of experience or an equivalent amount of graduate level training. An equivalent combination of training and experience (as approved by the department) may be used to meet the minimum qualifications of the classification PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS: Customer service (Face-to-Face, via E-mail and over the telephone) Analytical thought processes Good writing skills Bi-lingual helpful. Experience with Geographic Information Systems (GIS) LICENSING, CERTIFICATIONS, and/or OTHER SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: None required Equal Employment Opportunity Statement The City of Richmond provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

The City of Richmond is committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals. As part of this commitment, the City of Richmond will ensure that persons with disabilities are provided with reasonable accommodations. If you require reasonable accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) to participate in the job application and/or the interview process, please contact Veronica Kenner, by email at HR-ADA@rva.gov

This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruitment, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training. The City of Richmond Values Veterans. We are an official V3 Certified Company.

The City of Richmond is a proud partner with the US Army Partnership for Your Success PaYS Program.