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Land Use Planner Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Land Use Planner

Seattle, WA · Hybrid

$115K - $130K/yr

The Land Use Planner provides administrative, research, and project support for land use planning and development matters. This position assists with the preparation and management of land use ...

Land Use Planner - Feedlots

Mankato, MN · On-site

$73K - $102K/yr

The Land Use Planner - Feedlots manages the County's feedlot program, serving as the primary contact for the feedlot delegation program. Responsibilities include conducting investigations, developing ...

Senior Land Use Planner - Entitlements & Site Design Location: Roseville, CA Employment Type: Full-time, On-site - $55 - $75/ hr A dynamic Northern California civil engineering and planning firm is ...

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Land Use Planner information

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$47K

$82.5K

$118K

How much do land use planner jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for land use planner in the United States is $82,481.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $63,500.00 and $97,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much does an environmental planner earn?

Environmental planners typically earn a median annual salary of around $70,000 to $80,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced professionals or those with specialized skills can earn over $100,000 annually.

What jobs pay 500,000 a year in the US?

High-paying roles for land use planners or related senior positions in urban planning, real estate development, or environmental consulting can reach or exceed $500,000 annually, especially with extensive experience, leadership responsibilities, or in consulting firms. Such compensation often includes bonuses, profit sharing, or other incentives, and typically requires advanced degrees, certifications, and a strong track record of project management and strategic planning.

How much does a site planner make?

A site planner's salary typically ranges from $50,000 to $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of projects. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced professionals with certifications can earn higher wages. Skills in GIS, zoning regulations, and environmental planning are often valued in this role.

What is the difference between Land Use Planner vs Urban Planner?

AspectLand Use PlannerUrban Planner
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in urban planning, geography, or related field; certification often preferredBachelor's or master's in urban planning, geography, or related field; certification beneficial
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, consulting firms, private developers; focus on land zoning and developmentMunicipalities, government agencies, private firms; focus on city development and policy
Industry UsageUsed in land zoning, environmental planning, and development projectsUsed in city planning, community development, and infrastructure projects

Both roles involve planning and development, but Land Use Planners primarily focus on land zoning and environmental considerations, while Urban Planners concentrate on city-wide development and community growth. The skills and credentials overlap significantly, making them closely related careers in the planning industry.

How to become a land use planner?

To become a land use planner, typically a bachelor's degree in urban planning, geography, environmental science, or a related field is required. Gaining experience through internships and obtaining certification, such as the American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP), can enhance job prospects and professional credibility.

What are land use planners?

Land use planners are professionals who develop plans and policies for the use of land in urban, suburban, and rural areas. They analyze data and trends to guide the growth and development of communities while balancing economic, environmental, and social factors. Their work often involves zoning, community engagement, and ensuring projects comply with local regulations. Land use planners play a key role in creating sustainable and livable communities.

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

To thrive as a Land Use Planner, you need a background in urban planning, geography, or a related field, along with strong analytical and project management skills. Familiarity with GIS software, zoning regulations, and relevant certifications such as AICP are commonly required. Excellent communication, negotiation, and stakeholder engagement abilities distinguish top performers in this role. These skills ensure effective planning, community consensus, and regulatory compliance in shaping sustainable and functional spaces.

What are some common challenges faced by Land Use Planners when balancing community interests and regulatory requirements?

Land Use Planners often encounter the challenge of balancing diverse community interests—such as economic development, environmental conservation, and housing needs—while ensuring compliance with complex zoning laws and regulations. This requires strong negotiation and communication skills, as planners must facilitate public meetings, gather stakeholder input, and sometimes navigate conflicting priorities. Additionally, they collaborate closely with government agencies, developers, and citizens to create sustainable and equitable land use plans. Successfully managing these challenges can lead to meaningful community impact and valuable professional growth.
What cities are hiring for Land Use Planner jobs? Cities with the most Land Use Planner job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Land Use Planner jobs? The most popular types of Land Use Planner jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Land Use Planner jobs? The top employers for Land Use Planner jobs are:
What states have the most Land Use Planner jobs? States with the most job openings for Land Use Planner jobs include:
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Infographic showing various Land Use Planner job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $82,481 per year, or $39.7 per hour.

Land Use Planner

SCHWABE

Seattle, WA • Hybrid

$115K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

About Schwabe, Williamson & Wyatt:

Schwabe is a premier Northwest regional law firm serving the needs of businesses in seven key industry sectors: Technology; Healthcare and Life Sciences; Consumer Products, Manufacturing and Retail; Natural Resources; Real Estate and Construction; Ports and Maritime; and Indian Country and Alaska Native Corporations. We have offices in four states, in the cities of Portland, Bend, Salem, Seattle, Vancouver, Anchorage, and Mountain View. Schwabe has a culture based on collaboration, innovation, and a drive to help our clients achieve success.

Position Overview:

Schwabe, Williamson & Wyatt is seeking a full time Land Use Planner in our Seattle office. Schwabe has a hybrid work policy allowing employees to work from home Monday and Friday while working in the office Tuesday through Thursday.

The Land Use Planner provides administrative, research, and project support for land use planning and development matters. This position assists with the preparation and management of land use applications, coordinates with consultants and local jurisdictions, conducts regulatory and legislative research, and helps evaluate development opportunities for clients. The role plays a key part in ensuring projects move efficiently through the permitting and approval process while maintaining accurate records and supporting ongoing client matters.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Assist in drafting burden-of-proof applications for new land use applications, including review of local code provisions and comprehensive plans for relevant applicable criteria and drafting of initial responses to the same.
  • Coordinate with outside consultants—including traffic engineers, surveyors, and civil engineers—for existing applications and developments.
  • Manage land use application files, including local records for active land use files.
  • Draft record comment letters to various types of land use actions.
  • Review and analyze local government development codes, comprehensive plans, state land use administrative rules, and applicable state statutes.
  • Examine the development feasibility of various properties and projects.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Requirements:

  • Minimum of at least 3 years of land use experience.
  • A Bachelor’s degree in Urban Planning, Public Administration, Political Science, Environmental Studies, Geography, Legal Studies, Paralegal Studies, or a related field preferred.
  • AICP of other relevant certifications preferred.
  • Strong knowledge of land use laws, development regulations, permitting processes and applicable state and local requirements.
  • Strong communication skills
  • Strong time management and organization skills.

Interested candidates should submit their cover letter and resume to our careers site here.

Schwabe, Williamson & Wyatt provides a team-oriented working environment, offering competitive salaries and excellent benefits including medical, dental, life, LTD, 401(k)/profit sharing, tuition reimbursement, Employee Assistance Programs, transit subsidy, paid holidays, vacation, and sick time off.

All qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, age, sex, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or other status protected by law.