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Land Use Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

RWE

Sr. Land Acquisition Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

Identify and mitigate potential risks related to land acquisition, land use and project development * Develop contingency plans for unforeseen challenges related to land assets * Develop and manage ...

RWE

Sr. Land Acquisition Manager

Chicago, IL

Identify and mitigate potential risks related to land acquisition, land use and project development * Develop contingency plans for unforeseen challenges related to land assets * Develop and manage ...

Kleinfelder

Professional Land Surveyor

Bolingbrook, IL · On-site +1

$86K - $151K/yr

Use measurements of surveying equipment to determine property lines and boundaries. * Research additional information about a property though titles, survey records and land records. * Record ...

Kleinfelder Inc

Professional Land Surveyor

Bolingbrook, IL · On-site +1

$86K - $151K/yr

Use measurements of surveying equipment to determine property lines and boundaries. * Research additional information about a property though titles, survey records and land records. * Record ...

Kleinfelder

Professional Land Surveyor

Bolingbrook, IL · On-site +1

$86K - $151K/yr

Use measurements of surveying equipment to determine property lines and boundaries. * Research additional information about a property though titles, survey records and land records. * Record ...

destinationone Consulting

City Planner

Chicago, IL

As a City Planner, you will develop plans and programs for the use of land and physical facilities of municipalities. You will assess the feasibility of proposals and identify the best way to achieve ...

RWE

Assistant General Counsel

Chicago, IL · On-site

Provide legal advice associated with real estate, permitting, and land use topics in connection with the development, construction, and operation of energy projects in North American, including ...

RWE

Assistant General Counsel (Chicago)

Chicago, IL · On-site

Provide legal advice associated with real estate, permitting, and land use topics in connection with the development, construction, and operation of energy projects in North America, including ...

Airdo Werwas, LLC

Real Estate Attorney

Chicago, IL · On-site

$110K - $180K/yr

We are seeking an attorney with 5+ years of experienc e handling commercial real estate transactions, land use and zoning matters, and real estate development projects. The ideal candidate will have ...

Airdo Werwas, LLC

Real Estate Attorney

Chicago, IL · On-site

$110K - $180K/yr

We are seeking an attorney with 5+ years of experienc e handling commercial real estate transactions, land use and zoning matters, and real estate development projects. The ideal candidate will have ...

One Tech

Siting & Routing Project Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

S. in Environmental Science or Studies, Land Use Planning/Urban Planning, Natural and/or Cultural Resource Management, and 7 years of related experience Local candidates preferred or open to ...

CITY OF WOOD DALE

Planner

Wood Dale, IL · On-site

$75 - $113/hr

The Planner performs professional planning work related to zoning administration, development review, land use planning, and community development. This position works closely with residents ...

Solar Provider Group

Land Acquisition Field Agent

Chicago, IL · Remote

$28.50 - $38.50/hr

Conduct site visits to document physical, environmental, and land-use factors such as wetlands, floodplains, setbacks, and adjacent property uses. * Work with interconnection, permitting, and ...

Solar Provider Group

Land Acquisition Field Agent

Chicago, IL · On-site

$28.50 - $38.75/hr

Conduct site visits to document physical, environmental, and land-use factors such as wetlands, floodplains, setbacks, and adjacent property uses. * Work with interconnection, permitting, and ...

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All JobsLand Use JobsLand Use Jobs in Chicago, IL

Land Use information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$27.2K

$90.2K

$162.7K

How much do land use jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for land use in Chicago, IL is $90,212.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $60,045.00 and $105,721.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 are the most commonly searched types of Land Use jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Land Use jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What job categories do people searching Land Use jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Land Use jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Land Use jobs near you
Infographic showing various Land Use job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $90,212 per year, or $43.4 per hour.

Sr. Land Acquisition Manager

RWE

Chicago, IL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

RWE Americas, LLC
To start as soon as possible, full time, permanent
Functional area: Project Development
Remuneration: Exempt
The Senior Land Acquisition Manager in the renewables industry is a regional leadership position responsible for supporting land acquisiton, management, and optimization of land assets for renewable energy projects, such as wind, solar, storage, and hydrogen facilities. This role involves strategic planning, negotiation, and coordination to secure and manage land resources effectively. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in surface and mineral title, due diligence and curative.
The Senior Land Manager reports to the Director of Land Acquisition. You will be responsible for supporting land acquisition, managing 3rd party brokers/agents as needed to support the RWE company goals in the Central Region of the United States with an emphasis on surface and mineral title, lease prep and curative efforts. This role will include developing and implementing strategic processes and procedures, to support land, legal and development while ensuring compliance with all relevant standards.
Role Responsibilities:
  • Assist and support a comprehensive land acquisition strategy aligned with the orgnaization's renewable energy project goals
  • Develop best practices and execute a comprehensive strategy for title tasks
  • Manage the LRFprocess and team for title review and document preparation
  • Coordinate title curative efforts to ensure all documents are ready for development
  • Collaborate with legal teams to structure land agreements that meet legal and regulatory requirements
  • Conduct thorough due diligence on potential land acquisitions, including title searches, environmental assessments, and permitting requirements
  • Coordinate title curative efforts with legal and development to help prepare projects for development
  • Build and maintain positive relationships with Land, Development, Legal,landowners, local communities, government authorities, and other stakeholders
  • Understand relevant aspects ofrenewable energy projects and can successfully educate consultants and other stakeholders as needed
  • Address concerns and provide information about project plans and benefits to Central Region Team
  • Execute and follow process for onboarding land agents and/or brokers, creating work orders, tracking purchase orders, approving invoices
  • Tracking land title expenses associated with land agents and 3rd party consultants
  • Develop and execute comprehensive strategies aligned with the orgnaization's renewable energy project goals
  • Assist development to identify suitable land parcels for renewable energy development through title support
  • Lead negotiations for land acquisition, lease agreements and easements, ensuring favorable terms and conditions
  • Collaborate with legal teams to structure land agreements that meet legal and regulatory requirements
  • Conduct thorough due diligence on potential land acquisitions, including title searches, environmental assessments, and permitting requirements
  • Evaluate landowner's willingness to participate in renewable energy projects
  • Build and maintain positive relationships with landowners, local communities, government authorities, and other stakeholders
  • Understand relevant aspects of storage and renewable energy projects and can successfully educate landowners and other stakeholders as needed
  • Address concerns and provide information about project plans and benefits to stakeholders
  • Travel, as required, to facilitate land acquisition efforts and foster positive relationships with landowners and other stakeholders
  • Identify and mitigate potential risks related to land acquisition, land use and project development
  • Develop contingency plans for unforeseen challenges related to land assets
  • Develop and manage budgets for land acquisition and management activities
  • Monitor expenses and optimize land assets for cost-effective project development
  • Manage third party land acquisition resources to achieve the land resource objectives through a combination of internal and external resources
  • Lead and mentor a team of land acquisition professionals, providing guidance and support in their roles
  • Foster a collaborative and high-performance work environment within the Land team and with Development
  • Maintain accurate records of land agreements, permits and regulatory compliance
  • Provide regular reports to senior management on land acquisition progress and issues
  • Perform additional job-related duties as assigned

Job Requirements and Experience:
  • Bachelor's degree in business, real estate, environmental science or a related field (Master's Degree preferred)
  • Ten or more years of experience in land acquisition, real estate, land management, or a combination thereof, with a strong background in renewables (solar, wind and battery storage) preferred
  • Thorough knowledge of land-use regulations, permitting processes and real estate law
  • Exceptional negotiation and contract management skills
  • Strong analytical and financial acumen for budgeting and cost optimization
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for stakeholder engagement
  • Ability to lead and manage a team effectively
  • Proficiency in geographic information systems (GIS) and related land management software
  • Strong interpersonal skills, with ability to manage customer relationships
  • Demonstrated desire to learn about the Company and the renewables space
  • Excellent proficiency with Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook) and Teams
  • Strong leadership and communication, and ability to meet deadlines
  • Strong organization skills and ability to coordinate multiple tasks and deliverables
  • Ability to multi-task, while working independently and as part of a team
  • Motivated self-starter, goal-oriented, and strong problem-solving abilities
  • Proven ability to empathize, build relationships, and effectively communicate with people from a diverse set of backgrounds
  • Responds well to direction, is easy to challenge and develop, and is coachable
  • Is detail-oriented, has strong business acumen, and a sound understanding of business concepts
  • This position is a remote/hybrid role, based out of the Chicago office
  • Some travel and visits to other RWEA offices and field locations
  • Must be able to sit, walk, or stand for long durations of time

Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States. RWE Americas is unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of employment visas at this time.
Pay range: The annual base salary range for this position in Illinois is $130,000 - $175,000. The listed salary range represents our good faith estimate for this position and represents the range for new hire salaries across all U.S locations. Please note that the salary information is a general guideline only. RWE considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's education & work experience, training & certifications, and key skills as well as market and business considerations at the time of the offer.
Benefits offered: Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, Short-Term Disability, Long-Term Disability, 401(k) match, Flexible Spending Accounts, EAP, Education Assistance, Parental Leave, Paid time off, and Holidays. Eligible employees also participate in short-term incentives, in addition to salary.
Apply with just a few clicks: ad code 92290. Any questions? Contact HR: rwe_americas_recruiting@rwe.com
We look forward to meeting you. Of course, you can find us on LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube and Xing, too.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, or other legally protected status.
RWE Americas, a subsidiary of RWE, is a US-based energy company that is helping to meet the growing demand for energy across the United States. Backed by RWE's 125-year global legacy of managing diverse power assets, RWE Americas operates approximately 13 GW of power projects across 27 states. With a talented workforce of 2,000 employees, RWE Americas develops, constructs and operates wind, solar and battery storage projects that safely deliver affordable, reliable electricity to our customers. Committed to responsible development, RWE Americas invests in local and rural communities, creating jobs and partnering with stakeholders to support and strengthen the places where we live and work. Learn more about how RWE Americas is generating impact at americas.rwe.com.
At RWE Americas, we foster a culture defined by our Essential Behaviors - Have Courage, Create Impact and Actively Collaborate. We encourage bold thinking and continuous learning, and we value ownership, resilience and inclusion in everything we do. When you join us, you become part of a team that supports your development, respects your contributions and celebrates shared success. This is a place where you can grow your career and make a meaningful difference.
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