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Entry Level Land Use Planner Jobs in Raleigh, NC

The employee collects, verifies, manages, and analyzes geographic data related to land use, zoning ... The GIS Planning Technician works closely with Planning and Community Development staff, Public ...

GIS Planning Technician

Clayton, NC · On-site

$55K - $68K/yr

The employee collects, verifies, manages, and analyzes geographic data related to land use, zoning ... The GIS Planning Technician works closely with Planning and Community Development staff, Public ...

GIS PLANNER

Cary, NC · On-site

$69K - $107K/yr

Demonstrated knowledge of spatial and data analysis techniques, ESRI software, as well as a general understanding of planning and land use principles are desired. Position will entail day to day ...

GIS PLANNER

Cary, NC · On-site

$69K - $107K/yr

Demonstrated knowledge of spatial and data analysis techniques, ESRI software, as well as a general understanding of planning and land use principles are desired. Position will entail day to day ...

Project Manager, Land Rights

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$88K - $114K/yr

We use in-house talent, expertise and resources to plan, design, engineer, manage, conduct ... Planning, Permitting, Title and Land Management expertise that ensure outstanding results for our ...

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Entry Level Land Use Planner information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$45.7K

$80.2K

$114.7K

How much do entry level land use planner jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level land use planner in Raleigh, NC is $80,179.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $61,700.00 and $94,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level land use planners, and how can they navigate these early in their careers?

Entry level land use planners often encounter challenges such as balancing community interests with regulatory requirements, interpreting complex zoning codes, and managing multiple projects concurrently. Developing strong communication skills and seeking feedback from more experienced colleagues can help navigate these challenges. Additionally, staying organized and proactively learning about local ordinances and planning tools will support your effectiveness and professional growth in the role.

What does an entry level land use planner do?

An Entry Level Land Use Planner assists in evaluating and developing plans for the use of land in urban, suburban, and rural areas. Their responsibilities typically include conducting research, preparing reports, analyzing zoning codes, and participating in public meetings. They work under the supervision of senior planners and help ensure that land development projects comply with local regulations and support community goals. This role is a great starting point for those interested in urban planning, environmental management, or public policy.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Land Use Planner, you need a background in urban planning, geography, or a related field, often supported by a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with GIS software, zoning regulations, and land use mapping tools is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, communication, and collaboration skills help you work effectively with stakeholders and present planning proposals. These abilities are essential for developing practical, sustainable land use solutions that meet regulatory and community needs.
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Land Use Planner jobs in Raleigh, NC? For Entry Level Land Use Planner jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Land Use Planner jobs in Raleigh, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Land Use Planner jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Entry Level Land Use Planner jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Entry Level Land Use Planner job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Land Use Planner job openings in Raleigh, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 93% In-person, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $80,179 per year, or $38.5 per hour.

$55K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Description * Salary Grade SG 110* * Recruitment Salary Range: $55,131.00 - $68,857.00 * ** Salary offered will be determined based on directly related experience ** * Work Location is Town Hall Clayton, NC (Johnston County) * The Town of Clayton is seeking applicants for a GIS Planning Technician for the Information Systems Department. The Town of Clayton employs more than 340 full-time staff in areas including police, fire, and electric utilities. The Town of Clayton also offers a range of PT positions including positions in Parks & Rec, Library, and Cultural Arts

The Town of Clayton is the fastest growing town in Johnston County, which is the fastest growing county in the State of North Carolina. The vision for the Town of Clayton includes a thriving town where growth contributes to the quality of life enjoyed by long-time residents and newcomers alike; easy access but with an atmosphere that feels smaller than it is; a system of parks and greenways that connect people and places; neighborhoods with a variety of quality living options; a town that offers opportunities for people to live, create, shop and eat; a bustling and historic downtown, and businesses that are successful, growing, and investing in the community. Duties & Responsibilities The GIS Planning Technician performs responsible technical and analytical work supporting the Town's planning, development, mapping, and geographic information systems initiatives.

This position is responsible for maintaining and enhancing GIS databases, developing maps and spatial analyses, supporting development review activities, and assisting Town staff with GIS-based solutions that support growth management, land use planning, infrastructure coordination, and community development. The employee collects, verifies, manages, and analyzes geographic data related to land use, zoning, parcels, addressing, transportation networks, environmental features, utilities, and development projects. Work involves integrating data from a variety of sources including surveys, development plans, as-built drawings, GPS collection, field inspections, and departmental databases.

The GIS Planning Technician works closely with Planning and Community Development staff, Public Works, Engineering, Economic Development, and other Town departments to provide accurate mapping and geographic analysis that supports policy decisions, development review, capital improvement planning, and public engagement initiatives. Work requires strong attention to detail, analytical thinking, and the ability to communicate technical information effectively to both internal and external stakeholders. Independent judgment and initiative are exercised within established policies and GIS standards.

The position reports to the GIS Coordinator and is evaluated through review of completed projects, accuracy of GIS data, and effectiveness in supporting departmental objectives. Maintain and update the Town's GIS databases, ensuring accuracy and completeness of spatial data. Collect, import, query, analyze, and distribute GIS data to support planning, development, and community initiatives.

Assist with zoning, land use, annexation, addressing, transportation, demographic, and development-related mapping projects. Create maps, exhibits, and graphical presentations for planning studies, development review processes, public meetings, presentations, and Town initiatives. Digitize and maintain data from subdivision plats, site plans, development plans, surveys, permit sets, and as-built construction drawings.

Support the development review process by providing mapping, analysis, and geographic information for proposed development projects. Perform spatial analysis and create GIS-based solutions to assist Town staff in evaluating growth trends, land use patterns, infrastructure capacity, and community development opportunities. Develop and maintain GIS layers related to parcels, zoning, future land use, transportation, environmental resources, utility infrastructure, and municipal boundaries.

Create custom reports, data extracts, and SQL queries to support departmental operations and decision-making. Coordinate GIS data integration and sharing between Town departments and external partners. Assist in the development and maintenance of interactive mapping applications and web-based GIS tools.

Provide GIS support and technical assistance to Town staff and educate users on GIS resources and capabilities. Maintain GIS and GPS hardware, software, and related equipment. Perform other duties as assigned.

Special Requirements, Education & Experience Considerable knowledge of GIS principles, spatial databases, cartography, and geospatial analysis. Working knowledge of planning, land development, zoning, transportation, and municipal infrastructure concepts. Experience with ESRI ArcGIS platforms, GIS databases, GPS technology, and related software applications.

Knowledge of database management, SQL queries, and geospatial data management practices. Ability to analyze geographic and demographic data and present findings in a clear and meaningful manner. Ability to read and interpret site plans, subdivision plats, construction drawings, surveys, and development documents.

Ability to prepare professional-quality maps, reports, and visual presentations. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with staff, consultants, developers, property owners, and the public. Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.

Ability to manage multiple projects and meet established deadlines. Education and Experience: Bachelor's Degree in Geography, GIS, Planning, Engineering, or related major field preferred. Five years related GIS mapping experience.

OR Depending on the position, the Town may consider an equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential duties of the job such as those listed above, unless otherwise subject to any other requirements set forth in law or regulation. * SUBMIT OFFICIAL APPLICATION USING THE TOWN'S CAREER WEBSITE* https://www.townofclaytonnc.org/ If you have technical issues submitting your application, please call the NEOGOV (governmentjobs.com) Help Line at 855-524-5627. If there are any questions about this posting, other than your application status, please contact the Human Resources Office

If multiple applications are submitted to an individual posting, only the most recent application received prior to the closing date will be accepted. To check the status of your application, please log on to your NEOGOV account and click "Application Status". It is not necessary to contact the Human Resources Office to check the status of an application.

Normal processing time for applications is 30-45 days from the closing date of the posting. To obtain veterans preference, you must scan and upload a copy of your DD-214 or discharge orders. Degrees must be accredited by the U.S

Department of Education. Transcripts and degree evaluations may be uploaded with your application. To receive credit for your work history and credentials, you must list the information on the online application form.

Any information omitted from the application cannot be considered for qualifying credit. Attached or incorporated resumes (including Text Resume's on the on-line application) WILL NOT be used for screening for qualifying credit. "See Resume" or "See Attachment" WILL NOT be accepted in lieu of completing an on-line application form.

Applicants must be authorized to work for ANY employer in the U.S. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment Visa at this time. Applicants may be subject to a criminal background check

Effective October 1, 2025, in accordance with North Carolina state law, all applicants for positions that involve working with children in any capacity are required to undergo criminal history record checks conducted by the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation (SBI). Credit and motor checks are required for some administrative, finance and operational positions. Applicants will be required to take and pass a Pre-Employment Drug and Alcohol screen once they are verbally given a conditional offer of employment.

Depending on the position, employees may be subject to random drug and alcohol screens throughout their employment. Applicants have rights under Federal Employment Laws: Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO), and Employee Polygraph Protection Act (EPPA). Town of Clayton employees enjoy many benefits including a retirement pension plan, 401K membership, Paid Vacation, Sick and Holiday Leave, State Health Plan, and various other benefits.

Benefits information can be found by going directly to the Town of Clayton website at: https://www.townofclaytonnc.org/251/Benefits. When a salary range is posted, the actual salary will be based on relevant competencies, knowledge, skills & abilities, internal equity and budgetary considerations pertinent to the advertised position. The Town of Clayton is an Equal Opportunity Employer

Hiring salary will not exceed hiring pay range unless approved by the Town Manager. Applications may be reviewed to determine if applicants education and experience is more applicable to other vacant positions within the Town.