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Federal Planning Jobs (NOW HIRING)

York County, VA

Senior Planner

Yorktown, VA · On-site

$75K - $90K/yr

Performs reviews of rezoning and use permits, and other similar applications to ensure compliance with local, state, and federal planning and zoning ordinances and other policies and regulations ...

AECOM

Entry-Level Urban Planner

Virginia Beach, VA

The Federal Planning group of AECOM is actively seeking a creative, highly talented Entry-Level Urban Planner knowledgeable of physical site planning for immediate employment in the Virginia Beach ...

Potawatomi Federal Solutions, LLC

Demonstrated knowledge of the Federal Planning, Programming, Budgeting and Execution Process (PPBE) to advise on and/ or properly execute, record and report obligations, expenditures, transfer of ...

Potawatomi Federal Solutions, LLC

Demonstrated knowledge of the Federal Planning, Programming, Budgeting and Execution Process (PPBE) to advise on and/ or properly execute, record and report obligations, expenditures, transfer of ...

City of Federal Way, WA

Planning Manager

Federal Way, WA · On-site

$125K - $159K/yr

Salary : $125,664.00 - $159,144.00 Annually Location : 33325 8th Ave S, Federal Way Job Type: Regular Full-Time Job Number: 2600478 Department: Community Development Division: Planning Opening Date ...

City of Federal Way

Planning Manager

Federal Way, WA

$125K - $159K/yr

Advises the Mayor, City Council, City Administrator, and Director on Federal, State, and regional legislative issues affecting planning and development. Plans, organizes, and coordinates the ...

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All JobsFederal Planning Jobs

Federal Planning information

See salary details

$56K

$103.2K

$157K

How much do federal planning jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for federal planning in the United States is $103,218.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,500.00 and $116,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is federal planning?

Federal planning refers to the process by which government agencies at the national level develop, coordinate, and implement policies, programs, and initiatives. This often involves setting goals, allocating resources, ensuring compliance with laws and regulations, and collaborating with other agencies or levels of government. Federal planners work on a range of issues, such as transportation, environmental protection, public health, and urban development, to ensure the efficient and effective delivery of public services.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Federal Planner, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Federal Planner, you need expertise in policy analysis, project management, and a strong understanding of government regulations, often supported by a degree in public administration, urban planning, or a related field. Familiarity with planning software (such as GIS), federal budgeting systems, and compliance tools is typically required, along with certifications like AICP (American Institute of Certified Planners) being advantageous. Excellent communication, critical thinking, and stakeholder engagement skills help navigate complex projects and coordinate with various agencies. These abilities are vital to ensure that federal initiatives are effectively planned, compliant, and aligned with broader organizational and public goals.

How does a Federal Planning professional typically collaborate with other departments and agencies on large-scale projects?

Federal Planning professionals frequently work in cross-functional teams, collaborating with colleagues from finance, policy, legal, and program management departments. They often serve as liaisons between federal agencies and external partners to ensure project goals align with regulatory requirements and stakeholder expectations. Regular meetings, joint strategy sessions, and shared project management tools are common practices to facilitate communication and coordination. Successful collaboration requires strong interpersonal skills and a clear understanding of each party’s role in the planning process.

What is the difference between Federal Planning vs Urban Planning?

AspectFederal PlanningUrban Planning
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Planning, Public Policy, or related fields; often requires federal agency certificationsBachelor's or Master's in Urban Planning, Geography, or related fields; certifications like AICP are common
Work EnvironmentGovernment offices, federal agencies, policy development settingsCity or regional offices, community development projects, public consultations
Employer & IndustryFederal government agencies such as HUD, EPA, or DOTMunicipalities, private firms, non-profits involved in city development
Common Search & ComparisonFederal Planning vs Urban Planning

Federal Planning focuses on nationwide or federal agency-level policy development and strategic planning, often involving regulations and large-scale projects. Urban Planning concentrates on local city or regional development, zoning, and community engagement. While both roles require planning credentials and involve development projects, Federal Planning emphasizes policy at the national level, whereas Urban Planning is more community-focused.

More about Federal Planning jobs
What cities are hiring for Federal Planning jobs? Cities with the most Federal Planning job openings:
What states have the most Federal Planning jobs? States with the most job openings for Federal Planning jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Federal Planning jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Federal Planning jobs are:
Federal Planning jobs near you
Infographic showing various Federal Planning job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $103,218 per year, or $49.6 per hour.

Senior Planner

York County, VA

Yorktown, VA • On-site

$75K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 28 days ago

Job description

Salary : $75,875.00 - $90,000.00 Annually
Location : Yorktown, VA
Job Type: Full-time
Job Number: 115SP-2136
Department: Planning
Division: PDS-PLANNING
Opening Date: 04/24/2026
Closing Date: Continuous
Description
Performs advanced professional land use planning functions related to the promotion and implementation of comprehensive plan goals, and the administration of zoning ordinance provisions in the Planning Division of the Department of Planning and Development Services. May serve as liaison to various boards and commissions. Provides information and assists the public with rezoning and use permit processes; reviews applications and coordinates internal staff review; prepares and presents technical reports on land use, community facilities, and environmental and economic impact of development. Handles major programs. May perform some of the duties of the Principal Planner.
Depending on the incumbent's functional assignment, job responsibilities may include any of the following. This is not meant to be an exhaustive list of job functions but a representative sample of the type and level of work that is expected in this position.
Performs special and/or permanent assignments with specific responsibility for a major segment of the planning program, such as the comprehensive planning and community development programs.
Prepares and develops Comprehensive Plan elements, including project design, formulation of work program, research, data analysis, and alternatives development; writes, designs, and edits text and graphics for plan document; presents concepts and data analysis to Commission/Board of Supervisors; participates in discussions with the Planning Commission or Board of Supervisors.
Prepares and develops revisions to County plans and ordinances, including research, analysis, and writing; serves as a facilitator and coordinates interaction among citizens, state and local governmental agencies, Planning Commissioners, and Board of Supervisors; determines and develops policy bases and research for implementing policies; drafts ordinance language, presents and explains various issues to Commission, Board, or public.
Performs reviews of rezoning and use permits, and other similar applications to ensure compliance with local, state, and federal planning and zoning ordinances and other policies and regulations related to land development and use.
Assists the public and staff with inquiries pertaining to various planning issues, including but not limited to zoning, subdivision, and other land use ordinances, etc.
Performs current planning studies relating to land use issues, County facilities and program needs, etc. Prepares Planning Commission and Board of Supervisors materials such as memoranda, resolutions, and ordinances; reviews staff comments and incorporates into staff reports.
Provides staff support to various boards, commissions, and committees.
Represents the County on various local and regional committees on topics such as transportation, land use, historical resources preservation, hazard mitigation, and environmental planning.
Minimum Qualifications
Requires a master's degree in urban planning, public administration, or a related field with a minimum of three years of experience in local government, preferably with some lead experience; or any equivalent combination of education and experience, which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.
Possession of a valid driver's license issued by the Commonwealth of Virginia.
American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) designation is preferred.
This job is contingent upon successful completion of pre-employment checks to include criminal history, background and DMV record checks.
Supplemental Information
Thorough knowledge of long-range planning principles and practices.
Thorough knowledge of the interpretation of zoning ordinances.
Thorough knowledge of research and analysis techniques.
Thorough knowledge of and skill in using personal computers and Geographic Information System (GIS).
Excellent oral and written communication skills.
Ability to plan, organize, and perform complex research and planning projects.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.
Conflict management and dispute resolution skills.
Some knowledge of supervisory principles and practices.
The earliest start date for this position is July 13, 2026.
Physical Demands
Must be physically able to operate a variety of automated office machines, including a computer, printer, copier, etc. Work involves sitting most of the time but may involve walking or standing for periods of time, while doing site or field work.
For a more detailed description:
To view our Total Compensation Calculator, click .
The County of York offers a comprehensive benefit package for full-time employees to include medical, dental, and vision insurance, health savings accounts, VRS retirement, group life insurance, deferred compensation, flexible spending accounts, employee assistance program, paid holidays and paid leave.
01
Do you have a Bachelor's and/or Master's degree in Urban Planning, Geography, or a closely related field?
  • Yes
  • No

02
List the major field of study in which you received your highest degree and the type of degree received. If this does not apply to your level of education, type "N/A".
03
How many years of experience do you have evaluating development proposals and/or rezoning and Special Use Permit applications for compliance with zoning or subdivision regulations and consistency with land use and development policies and concepts?
  • None
  • Less than 2 years
  • 2 to 4 years
  • 5 years or more

04
Do you have experience performing computer-assisted statistical analysis related to demographics and/or planning and community development projects?
  • Yes
  • No

05
Do you have a current American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) certification?
  • Yes
  • No

06
How many years of experience do you have working in local government?
  • None
  • Less than 2 years
  • 2 to 4 years
  • 5 years or more

07
Do you have a valid driver's license from the Commonwealth of Virginia?
  • Yes
  • No

08
Were you encouraged to apply for this particular position by a current York County government employee? If so, please write their full name and the department or division they work in below. Otherwise, write N/A.
09
Are you a current York County government employee? (This does not include the employment with the Offices of General District Court, York-Poquoson Social Services, Colonial Behavioral Health, or York County Schools)
  • Yes
  • No

Required Question

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