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Planning Development Jobs (NOW HIRING)

S., and we're seeking a seasoned Planning and Development Specialist to guide our efforts in securing land use and zoning approvals for Zipline's real estate footprint nationwide. This is not a ...

Parks Planning & Development Manager

Tracy, CA ยท Hybrid

$132K - $161K/yr

Plan, organize and direct parks planning and development activities including land acquisition, planning, design, and implementation. Attend, prepare and present staff reports and informational items ...

Job Overview Skanska USA is seeking an experienced ERP Development & Security Lead to guide the design, development, security, and modernization of our JD Edwards EnterpriseOne environment. This role ...

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Planning Development information

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$38.5K

$73K

$101K

How much do planning development jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for planning development in the United States is $73,013.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,500.00 and $77,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a planning development professional do?

Professionals in Planning Development are responsible for managing and guiding the growth and development of urban, suburban, or rural areas. They work to create plans and policies that support sustainable land use, infrastructure, and community needs. Their duties often include reviewing development proposals, consulting with stakeholders, ensuring compliance with regulations, and balancing economic, environmental, and social factors. Ultimately, they help shape how towns and cities evolve over time.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a planning development professional?

To thrive in Planning Development, you need strong analytical skills, project management expertise, and a background in urban planning or a related field, often backed by a relevant degree. Familiarity with geographic information systems (GIS), data analysis tools, and planning regulations is typically required. Excellent communication, negotiation, and problem-solving abilities help you effectively engage stakeholders and manage complex projects. These skills are crucial for creating sustainable, well-organized development plans that meet community needs and regulatory standards.

What are some common challenges faced by planning development professionals, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Planning Development often navigate challenges such as balancing stakeholder interests, adapting to changing regulations, and managing tight project timelines. Success in this role requires strong communication skills to facilitate collaboration between planners, developers, local authorities, and community members. Staying current with zoning laws and urban planning trends, as well as utilizing project management tools, can help mitigate these challenges. Additionally, being proactive in identifying potential obstacles early allows for more effective problem-solving and project delivery.

What is the difference between Planning Development vs Urban Planning?

AspectPlanning DevelopmentUrban Planning
CredentialsTypically requires degrees in urban planning, civil engineering, or related fields; certifications like AICP are commonSame as Planning Development: degrees in urban planning, geography, or related fields; certifications like AICP are often preferred
Work EnvironmentOften involves project management, site analysis, and collaboration with developers and government agenciesFocuses on city-wide or regional land use, policy development, and community engagement
Employer & IndustryUsed by real estate developers, construction firms, and government agencies involved in project-specific planningUsed by municipal governments, regional agencies, and urban planning firms for broader city or regional planning

Planning Development and Urban Planning share similar educational backgrounds and certifications, but Planning Development tends to focus on specific projects and development processes, while Urban Planning emphasizes city-wide policies and land use strategies. Both roles require collaboration with multiple stakeholders, but their scope and focus differ significantly.

More about Planning Development jobs

What cities are hiring for Planning Development jobs?

Cities with the most Planning Development job openings:

What states have the most Planning Development jobs?

States with the most job openings for Planning Development jobs include:

Infographic showing various Planning Development job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $73,013 per year, or $35.1 per hour.

Planning & Development Director

Kingsland, GA โ€ข On-site

$93K/yr

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

Planning and Development Director

Planning and Development

FLSA: Exempt

Minimum Pay: $93,036.42 DOQ

JOB SUMMARY

This position is responsible for directing the county’s planning and development functions.

MAJOR DUTIES

  • Provides technical assistance and advice to the County Administrator, County Attorney, and other department heads as requested.
  • Hires, trains, assigns, directs, supervises, evaluates, and disciplines personnel.
  • Attends meetings of the County Commission and Planning Commission to provide advice on agenda items related to building and zoning; implements policies and directives approved by the Commission.
  • Directs and oversees the preparation of maps, charts, and reports related to planning and land use; drafts ordinances, resolutions, and regulations.
  • Prepares and monitors the department budget.
  • Performs planning and development review; develops and evaluates department strategic plans; manages Board of County Commissioners/County Administrator directed projects.
  • Interprets and enforces building codes and ordinances; makes administrative decisions concerning enforcement as provided by state law.
  • Ensures compliance with zoning and development regulations and building and construction codes.
  • Oversees the issuance of building licenses to ensure compliance with zoning regulations and county codes.
  • Consults with and respond to inquiries from builders, contractors, architects, and developers in order to ensure that proposed construction will be in compliance with codes; responds to requests for variances.
  • Oversees the inspection process for all new buildings, additions, and repairs; schedules building inspections.
  • Responds to complaints from property owners concerning builders; mediates disputes.
  • Issues certificates of occupancy for structures; determines load requirements.
  • Manages and monitors the work of consultants providing planning services to the county.
  • Oversees GIS applications development, contract development, and software acquisition.
  • Reviews all plans for proposed commercial, industrial, and residential construction.
  • Locates structures and issues addresses for each improved property in the county for mail and emergency response purposed; notifies local Postmasters and utility providers of address changes and additions; provides assistance and information to emergency service agencies regarding the use of county maps.

The above cited duties and responsibilities describe the general nature and level of work performed by people assigned to the job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all the duties and responsibilities that an incumbent may be expected or asked to perform. The omission of specific statements of duties or responsibilities does not exclude them from the classification if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment for this classification. Other duties may be required and assigned

KNOWLEDGE REQUIRED BY THE POSITION

  • Knowledge of planning and zoning principles and practices.
  • Knowledge of civil engineering principles.
  • Knowledge of budget management principles.
  • Knowledge of the principles and practices of public administration.
  • Knowledge of the techniques, materials, and equipment used in building construction.
  • Knowledge of computers and job-related software programs.
  • Knowledge of relevant federal and state laws, county ordinances, and department policies and procedures.
  • Skill in the review and analysis of land records and construction documents.
  • Skill in interpreting blueprints and maps.
  • Skill in analyzing and compiling technical data.
  • Skill in management and supervision.
  • Skill in problem solving.
  • Skill in prioritizing and planning.
  • Skill in interpersonal relations.
  • Skill in oral and written communication.

SUPERVISORY CONTROLS

The County Administrator assigns work in terms of department goals and objectives. The supervisor reviews work through conferences, reports, and observation of department activities.

GUIDELINES

Guidelines include the National Electrical Code; standard gas, plumbing, and mechanical codes; applicable construction codes; county ordinances and resolutions; zoning and development regulations; fire protection and life safety codes; and county and departmental policies and procedures. The position also operates in accordance with relevant state and federal laws, including the Zoning Procedures Law and the Georgia Planning Act. Applying these guidelines requires sound judgment, discretion, and professional interpretation. This position is also responsible for developing departmental guidelines.

COMPLEXITY/SCOPE OF WORK

  • The work consists of varied management, supervisory, and enforcement duties. The need to interpret ordinances and regulations to apply in a variety of cases and circumstances contributes to the complexity of the position.
  • The purpose of this position is to direct the planning and development operations of the county. Successful performance contributes to the efficiency and effectiveness of those operations.

CONTACTS

  • Contacts are typically with coworkers, other professionals in the field, elected and appointed officials, attorneys, realtors, property owners, and members of the general public.
  • Contacts are typically to exchange information, motivate persons, negotiate matters, justify matters, resolve problems, and provide services.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS/ WORK ENVIRONMENT

  • The work is typically performed while sitting at a desk or table or while intermittently sitting, standing, or stooping.
  • The work is typically performed in an office and outdoors, occasionally in cold or inclement weather.

SUPERVISORY AND MANAGEMENT RESPONSIBILITY

This position has direct supervision over the Building Official, Plans Examiner/Inspector, Planning and Development Coordinator, CRS E & S Coordinator, Planning and Development Technician, GIS Manager, GIS Analyst, and GIS Technician.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

  • Knowledge and level of competency commonly associated with the completion of a baccalaureate degree in a course of study related to the occupational field.
  • Experience sufficient to thoroughly understand the diverse objectives and functions of the subunits in the division/department in order to direct and coordinate work within the division/department, usually interpreted to require three to five years of related experience.
  • Possession of or ability to readily obtain a valid driver’s license issued by the State of Georgia for the type of vehicle or equipment operated.