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Entry Level Urban Planner Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

... Planning & Urban Design. We invite you to bring your experience and skills into play as you ... We are looking for an entry level individual with interest in building design and construction ...

Entry Level Urban Planner information

See Virginia salary details

$32.7K

$69K

$112K

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

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level urban 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 urban planner do?

An entry level urban planner assists in designing and developing plans and programs for land use in urban areas. Their responsibilities typically include conducting research, analyzing data, preparing reports, and supporting senior planners with community outreach and public meetings. They help ensure that development projects comply with zoning laws, environmental regulations, and the needs of the community. Entry level urban planners often use mapping software and statistical tools to evaluate the impacts of proposed projects. This role provides foundational experience for advancing in the urban planning field.

What are some typical projects or tasks an entry level urban planner might work on in their first year?

As an entry level urban planner, you can expect to assist with data collection and analysis, prepare maps and reports, and support senior planners in public meetings or community outreach. You'll often contribute to reviewing development proposals, researching zoning regulations, and helping to draft comprehensive plans. Early responsibilities also include collaborating with engineers, architects, and local government staff to ensure proposed projects align with community goals and regulations. This hands-on experience is valuable for building your understanding of planning processes and developing key professional skills.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Urban Planner, you need a background in urban planning or a related field, strong analytical skills, and familiarity with regulatory frameworks. Proficiency with Geographic Information Systems (GIS), AutoCAD, and planning software, as well as knowledge of zoning and land use policies, is typically required. Effective communication, problem-solving, and collaboration skills are essential for engaging with stakeholders and multidisciplinary teams. These skills and qualities are important for creating well-informed, sustainable urban plans that address community needs and regulatory requirements.

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

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

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Urban Planner jobs in Virginia?

For Entry Level Urban Planner jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Urban Planner jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Urban Planner jobs in Virginia are:

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

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

Infographic showing various Entry Level Urban Planner job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $68,994 per year, or $33.2 per hour.

$53K - $66K/yr

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 11 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.