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Land Use Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

InstantServe LLC

Surveyor

Nashville, TN · On-site +1

Review and interpret legal property descriptions (Notice of Land Use Restriction) * Accurately map restricted boundaries using CAD or GIS software * Provide written recommendations when legal ...

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Land Use information

What is the difference between Land Use vs Land Planning?

AspectLand UseLand Planning
Required credentialsTypically requires degrees in urban planning, geography, or related fields; certifications varySimilar credentials; often includes certifications in planning or environmental management
Work environmentFieldwork, site analysis, policy developmentDesigning plans, policy formulation, community engagement
Employer and industry usageGovernment agencies, urban development firms, environmental organizationsMunicipalities, planning consultancies, government departments
Common search and comparison intentUnderstanding roles in land management and developmentPlanning and designing land use strategies

Land Use focuses on the practical application of managing how land is utilized, including zoning and policy enforcement. Land Planning involves designing and developing comprehensive plans for land development, often incorporating community needs and environmental considerations. Both roles overlap but differ in scope and focus, with Land Use emphasizing regulation and management, and Land Planning emphasizing strategic design and development.

What is a land use professional?

Land use professionals are experts who specialize in planning, managing, and regulating how land is developed and used within communities. They work with various stakeholders, including government agencies, developers, and the public, to ensure that land development aligns with environmental, economic, and legal considerations. Their work involves zoning, urban planning, environmental assessment, and advising on policies that promote sustainable and efficient land usage.

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 strong background in urban planning, geography, or environmental science, typically supported by a relevant degree and sometimes AICP certification. Familiarity with Geographic Information Systems (GIS), zoning regulations, and land management software is crucial. Excellent communication, negotiation, and analytical thinking are standout soft skills for collaborating with stakeholders and addressing community needs. These skills ensure that land development projects are sustainable, legally compliant, and serve the best interests of both the environment and the community.

What are some typical challenges faced by professionals working in land use planning, and how are they addressed within a team environment?

Land use professionals often navigate complex challenges such as balancing development goals with environmental regulations, addressing community concerns, and coordinating input from multiple stakeholders. These challenges are typically addressed through collaborative teamwork, where planners, engineers, legal experts, and public officials work together to find practical, sustainable solutions. Open communication, regular meetings, and stakeholder engagement are crucial for resolving conflicts and ensuring that land use plans are both feasible and aligned with community needs.
What are popular job titles related to Land Use jobs in Tennessee? For Land Use jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Land Use jobs in Tennessee look for? The top searched job categories for Land Use jobs in Tennessee are:
Land Use jobs near you
Infographic showing various Land Use job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 25% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution.

Land Use Planner - Development Review

GNRC

Nashville, TN

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 23 days ago

Job description

The Greater Nashville Regional Council (GNRC) is seeking an experienced land use planner to join its Community and Regional Planning Department. GNRC facilitates the development of regional plans for transportation, solid waste, economic development, and a growing list of additional issues. At the local level, GNRC provides subscription-based staffing support to municipal and county planning commissions and develops local comprehensive plans and zoning ordinances on a fee-for-service basis.


The duties of the land use planner include:

  • Providing professional planning and technical assistance to local communities to include reviewing site plans, preliminary and final plats, and conditional use and zoning permits for compliance with adopted plans, policies, and regulations;
  • Assisting with the development of community plans by 1) documenting and analyzing existing conditions and trends, 2) identifying and assessing best practices and tools, and 3) recommending policies, actions, or investment strategies tailored to address the specific planning objectives;
  • Preparing and presenting staff reports to planning boards, boards of zoning appeals, stakeholder organizations, and the general public;
  • Conducting research and analysis on planning issues to develop recommended updates to local or regional plans, policies, and regulations;
  • Assisting with the development of maps and data visualizations using ArcGIS and other planning applications;
  • Remaining current on state and federal regulations that govern or guide the various planning processes; and
  • Performing other special projects as assigned by the Director of Community and Regional Planning.


Qualifications: The preferred candidate will have practical experience in current planning for a municipal or county government and in the preparation of long-range comprehensive plans at the local or regional level. A master's degree in community and regional planning or a related field is required, along with at least two years of professional experience. A bachelor's degree and four years of experience in planning may be substituted for the master's degree. Foreign degrees and credentials will be considered.


Compensation: The starting pay rate will be subject to experience and qualifications. GNRC offers a fully paid pension through the Tennessee Consolidated Retirement System and provides a dollar for dollar match to a 401k up to 3% of gross salary. Inquire for more information about benefits.


Remote Work Policy:While GNRC provides flexibility for remote/hybrid working conditions, this is not a remote position. The selected candidate will be expected to work from the GNRC office with regularity.


Travel Expectations:This position will require regular travel throughout the Middle Tennessee area during and after normal business hours to attend daytime and evening local planning meetings. A valid driver's license and access to personal transportation is required.


About GNRC:The Greater Nashville Regional Council was established by the TN General Assembly as an association of local governments empowered to convene local and state leaders for the purposes of planning and programming state and federal investments into a range of social services and public infrastructure. GNRC serves as the region's federally-recognized Area Agency on Aging and Disability (AAAD), Economic Development District (EDD) and administers the Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) on behalf of the Nashville Area MPO Transportation Policy Board . More information is available atGNRC.org.


Position open until filled.

GNRC is an EOE, AA Employer

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