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Entry Level City Planner Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The City of Belmont Planning & Zoning Department is seeking a part-time intern to support ongoing ... The candidate selected for this role will gain entry-level exposure to various public sector ...

Federal Planner I

Jacksonville, FL · On-site

$60K - $63K/yr

We are currently seeking an entry-level Federal Planner to join our Jacksonville office. What You ... Bachelor's degree in Urban Planning, City & Regional Planning, or a related field (Master's degree ...

Junior Project Manager

Floral Park, NY · On-site

$60K - $70K/yr

... entry-level project management work and receive training in senior level project management ... urban studies, city planning, transportation planning, business administration, or public ...

... urban city centers, to rural greenfields, to limited access rights-of-way. In July 2020, HBK ... Comprehensive entry-level engineering experience with diverse project exposure * Professional ...

... urban city centers, to rural greenfields, to limited access rights-of-way. In July 2020, HBK ... Comprehensive entry-level engineering experience with diverse project exposure * Professional ...

Entry Level Police Officer

Sumner, WA · On-site

$88K - $113K/yr

The City has won a variety of awards from the Governor's Smart Planning Award to recognition at the ... Entry Level Candidates- if your current, updated Personal History Statement is not available ...

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Entry Level City Planner information

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$33K

$69.6K

$113K

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

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level city planner in the United States is $69,591.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,000.00 and $81,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

Entry-level city planning roles typically do not pay $10,000 a month without experience or advanced education. High-paying jobs that can reach this level without a degree often involve entrepreneurship, sales, real estate, or specialized trades like certain tech or skilled trades, but these usually require skills, certifications, or significant experience. Most roles with such income levels generally demand relevant expertise or business ownership.

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.

Is it hard to get a job as a city planner?

Getting a job as an entry-level city planner can be competitive, as it often requires a relevant degree in urban planning, geography, or a related field, along with internships or related experience. Strong skills in GIS software, communication, and knowledge of local regulations can improve job prospects, but the availability of positions varies by region and economic conditions.

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.

How to start a career in city planning?

To start a career as an entry-level city planner, obtain a bachelor's degree in urban planning, geography, or a related field. Gaining experience through internships or entry-level positions and developing skills in GIS software and zoning regulations can improve job prospects. Some roles may require certification or a master's degree for advancement.

What does an entry level urban planner do?

An entry-level urban planner assists in developing land use plans and policies to create sustainable, functional communities. They conduct research, analyze data, prepare reports, and use tools like GIS software under supervision to support planning projects and community development efforts.

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.

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.
More about Entry Level City Planner jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level City Planner jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level City Planner job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of City Planner jobs? The most popular types of City Planner jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level City Planner jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level City Planner jobs include:
Infographic showing various Entry Level City Planner job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 51% Full Time, 42% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,591 per year, or $33.5 per hour.

Planner Associate - Land Use

City of Richmond

Richmond, VA

$53K - $66K/yr

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 15 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 Land Use Administration Division of the Department of Planning & Development Review (PDR), a division that works cross city departments to review land use entitlement applications and implement the comprehensive plan, is hiring for the position of Planner Associate. This is an entry-level planner position.

The selected applicant will be an integral part of providing professional planning services, land use planning, preservation planning, zoning administration, and the monitoring, review, and evaluation of land use development proposals and urban design. The selected candidate will be the support staff of the Land Use Administrative Division on projects that will require the coordination of multiple City agencies and disciplines, including the review of site plans. As assigned, work may include: reviewing applications, proposals, bids, plans, and reports for land use and zoning ordinance compliance; conducting field investigations; preparing and presenting reports; maintaining databases; coordinating city agency reviews, including determining review criteria; designing and developing comprehensive community and neighborhood development plans; determining project compliance; analyzing effects of plans on land use, redevelopment, and rehabilitation; providing technical assistance, and managing site plan review.

Supervision Exercised/Received: Exercised: This classification typically does not supervise other employees, but may serve as lead worker, assigning work and monitoring work completion. Received: This classification typically reports to a Program and Operations Supervisor or team lead. Note: Other reporting relationships may apply.

Duties include but are not limited to Typical Percentage of Time (none less than 10%) Assists various commissions through providing technical expertise, presenting applications, advising staff on the preparation of reports, assisting with long-range initiatives, and other administrative tasks. 30% Reviews documents such as tax abatement projects, demolition permits, land use property proposals, applications, site plans, and building proposals. 25% Assists with special projects such as census updates, the City's Master Plan, HUD-funded projects, Cell Tower Environmental Impact reports, GIS-based maps, and visionary small area plans and reports.

10% Communicates with members of the community. 15% Conducts site visits and takes measurements for purposes such as to develop site plans, floor plans, elevations, and 3D renderings. 10% Organizes and conducts meetings.

10% Qualifications, Special Certifications and Licenses KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES: Knowledge (some combination of the following): 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 Site Plan and Subdivision review processes Understanding of phases of a project's lifecycle from pre-design through construction administration Graphic design General knowledge of urban planning and design; preservation planning principles, laws, and regulations; zoning ordinances and ordinance preparation; master planning; traditional neighborhood development; transportation planning; land title principles and surveying; and engineering principles Expertise with some combination of the following computer programs: Microsoft Office Suite; GIS; EnerGov; Legistar; Blue Beam; SharePoint; word processing programs; AutoCAD; SketchUp; ArcGIS; IRender nXt; and Adobe Creative Suite (i.e

- InDesign, Illustrator, and Photoshop) Skills (some combination of the following): Providing excellent customer service, including dealing with difficult customers Being a clear and effective facilitator, including public speaking skills and defending recommendations/positions Managing databases Composing documents Negotiating and balancing the needs of citizens with economic demands, health and human service needs, goals of private corporations, and land use regulations Assessing and evaluating a project's conformance with Commission of Architectural Review Guidelines Utilizing a large-scale printer/plotter Preparing documentation according to state and federal standards Photographing sites for clarity and documentation Conducting research Reading and understanding building plans Leading effective meetings Conducting site inspections Abilities (some combination of the following): Analyze information Pay attention to detail Learn new programs quickly Communicate planning and local government policy issues to a range of audiences Interact and work with different groups of people Undertake complex projects with multiple deadlines and stakeholders Adapt to unique variables (i.e., physical, regulatory, political) 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 An equivalent combination of training and experience (as approved by the department) may be used to meet the minimum qualifications of the classification 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

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