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Land Use Planner Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Principal Planner About theDepartment/Division/Section: Thework of theDepartment of Land Use&Transportation (LUT) is organized into five divisions: Administrative Services; Capital Project Services;

Hybrid Land Use Associate

San Francisco, CA · Hybrid

$225K - $265K/yr

... land use, planning and zoning - Proven ability to represent clients (property owners, developers, tenants, or municipalities) throughout the land entitlement and development process. Strong ...

Hybrid Land Use Associate

Los Angeles, CA · Hybrid

$225K - $265K/yr

... land use, planning and zoning - Proven ability to represent clients (property owners, developers, tenants, or municipalities) throughout the land entitlement and development process. Strong ...

Hybrid Land Use Associate

San Diego, CA · Hybrid

$225K - $265K/yr

... land use, planning and zoning - Proven ability to represent clients (property owners, developers, tenants, or municipalities) throughout the land entitlement and development process. Strong ...

Within the County organization, the Land Use Services Department oversees zoning administration, land use planning, environmental protection, and compliance with applicable county and state ...

Serves as Planner for environmental and land planning assignments - assist with the preparation of master plans, land use permit applications, and environmental assessment/EIS documents. Perform ...

Represent clients before planning boards, zoning boards of adjustment, and municipal agencies in ... Draft and negotiate land use-related agreements, escrow/land development conditions, covenants, and ...

Planner II (Associate Planner)

Stamford, CT · On-site

$110K - $141K/yr

JOB SUMMARY Under the general supervision of the Land Use Bureau Chief, performs planning and zoning tasks; manages, organizes and coordinates assigned projects and areas of responsibilities. Manages ...

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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 Jun 23, 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.

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.

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:
What job categories do people searching Land Use Planner jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Land Use Planner jobs are:
Infographic showing various Land Use Planner job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 14% As Needed, 23% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 49% Contract, and 8% Nights. Highlights an 85% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $82,481 per year, or $39.7 per hour.
Environmental Land Use Planner I, II, III or Senior

Environmental Land Use Planner I, II, III or Senior

UniSource Energy Services

Prescott, AZ

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

We are looking for talented individuals who are passionate about making an impact in the company and the community. Apply now and become part of the dynamic energy industry!
Join our team to help deliver critical energy infrastructure projects while navigating environmental and land use requirements. We're looking for an experienced Environmental & Land Use Planner who brings strong permitting and project coordination experience. This position will be located at our office in either Prescott, Flagstaff, or Kingman, Arizona depending on the selected candidate's location.
What You Will Do
  • Secure environmental permits and land use approvals for distribution, transmission, and generation projects
  • Navigate local, state, and federal regulations to support project development from siting through closeout
  • Manage consultants and coordinate cross-functional teams to meet project timelines and requirements
  • Partner with regulators, agencies, and internal stakeholders to drive project success
  • Develop project scopes, schedules, and budgets; track progress and provide updates
  • Prepare and maintain GIS data, maps, and exhibits to support planning and permitting efforts

What You Bring
  • Experience with environmental permitting and land use/zoning processes (utility or infrastructure projects preferred)
  • Knowledge of regulatory frameworks and ability to work with agencies and stakeholders
  • Strong project management skills including budgeting, scheduling, and coordination
  • Ability to interpret engineering drawings and assess project impacts
  • Proficiency in GIS and standard business software tools
  • Strong communication, organization, and problem-solving skills

*Full job description
Position Description
Identifies local, state, and federal jurisdictional and regulatory requirements, then secures related environmental and land use authorizations in support of distribution, transmission, and generation projects.
Position-Related Responsibilities
  • Secures environmental permits and land use authorizations required to construct and maintain distribution, transmission, and generation assets for system reinforcement, system integrity, public improvement, and business development projects.
  • Manages consultants and directs their efforts to secure environmental permits and land use authorizations that meet internal and external requirements throughout all phases of project work from initial site selection to post construction close out.
  • Develops and maintains business relationships with internal departments, jurisdictions, regulators, and other key stakeholders on behalf of the company.
  • Provides technical guidance and permitting assistance in response to general land use questions.
  • Provides planning and permitting input for right-of-way project research.
  • Reviews, develops and manages requests for proposals, project scopes and budgets. Works with TEP GIS staff to acquire and maintain Land Resources' geospatial data layers.
  • Provides GIS support within the Land Resources department, including preparation of maps, exhibits, and maintaining related database information.
  • Works closely with the project manager on overall project management from inception to completion.
  • Develops O&M and Capital budget forecasts, tracks expenditures, and provides variance explanations at the project level.
  • Develops schedules and monitors progress to ensure proper coordination throughout all project phases.
  • Leads formal and informal meetings concerning assigned projects. Works across departments to identify project needs and requirements.
  • This position may provide services to affiliates of the Company subject to the UNS Energy Code of Conduct and the related Policies and Procedures.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
(Equivalent combination of education and experience will be considered.)
  • Knowledge of and experience with researching and securing local, state, and federal land management environmental permits and land use authorizations.
  • Knowledge of municipal and county zoning and land use codes, and the permitting and licensing processes required by the various governing agencies throughout Southern Arizona.
  • Knowledge of Arizona Corporation Commission and Power Plant and Transmission Line Siting Committee processes.
  • Ability to interpret engineering drawings and assess their related influence on facilities and properties.
  • Experience in facilitating business meetings and building consensus.
  • Experience in project and budget planning, design, analysis, management, and communication.
  • Experience with various software programs, including but not limited to word processing, spreadsheets, database, presentation and geospatial.
  • Attention to detail in preparing and proofing materials.
  • Establishing priorities and meeting deadlines.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills.

Environmental and Land Use Planner I
(ELUP I)
Requires a basic knowledge of position-related responsibilities and KSAs. And possess verbal and written communication skills and computer skills
Introductory position that works under close supervision in performing specialized technical duties. Training needed for tasks.
Minimum Qualifications:
Requires a Bachelor degree in Environmental Planning or closely related field with one (1) year of related experience performing environmental and land use planning work.
Environmental and Land Use Planner II
(ELUP II)
Competent in most of the KSA's.
Responsible for small to medium sized projects and will assist more experienced Environmental and Land Use Planners on large projects.
May require close supervision on new aspects of assignments. Can perform routine tasks correctly without assistance
Minimum Qualifications:
Requires minimum qualifications of ELUP I with three (3) or more years of professional experience in an Environmental and Land Planning role, or a Master's degree in Environmental Planning or related field with at least one (1) year of experience.
Environmental and Land Use Planner
(ELUP III)
Competent in all KSA's.
Responsible for all project sizes, can lead a team if needed for large projects and provides SME training to others.
Contributes to O&M and Capital budget plans.
Minimum Qualifications:
Requires minimum qualifications of ELUP II with five (5) or more years of professional experience in an Environmental and Land Planning role, or a Master's degree in Environmental Planning or related field with at least three (3) years of experience.
Senior Environmental and Land Use Planner
Responsible for all project sizes, leads multiple large projects concurrently, and has additional staff assigned to assist on projects.
Develops and maintains project estimates, and provides explanation for O&M and Capital
Minimum Qualifications:
Requires minimum qualifications of ELUP III with ten (10) or more years of professional experience in environmental and land use planning, or a Master's degree in Environmental Planning or related field with at least five (5) years of environmental and land use planning experience.
Prior supervisory experience preferable.