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Planning Director Jobs (NOW HIRING)

OmniMax International

Planning Director

GA

$170K - $190K/hr

The Planning Director will play a critical leadership role in driving excellence in raw material planning, production scheduling, constraints management, and ERP-enabled planning processes. This ...

STV Incorporated

Planning Director

Chicago, IL · On-site

$164K - $187K/yr

Planning Director - Transportation Planning (Chicago, IL) Lead Growth. Shape the Future of Transportation. STV is seeking a Planning Director to lead and grow our Transportation Planning Practice in ...

Town of Fairview, TX

Planning Director

Fairview, TX · On-site

$115K - $173K/yr

Direct, supervise, and evaluate Planning Analyst position, providing leadership, guidance, and professional development to ensure effective delivery of planning, permitting, zoning, and related ...

City of Bartow, FL

Planning Director

Bartow, FL · On-site

$60.02 - $80.89/hr

Planning Opening Date: 06/17/2026 Closing Date: 7/20/2026 8:00 AM Eastern Job Summary Performs complex professional and difficult administrative work directing and coordinating all planning functions ...

STV

Planning Director

Chicago, IL · On-site

$164K - $187K/yr

Planning Director - Transportation Planning (Chicago, IL) Lead Growth. Shape the Future of Transportation. STV is seeking a Planning Director to lead and grow our Transportation Planning Practice in ...

Omnimax

Planning Director

GA · On-site +1

The Planning Director will play a critical leadership role in driving excellence in raw material planning, production scheduling, constraints management, and ERP-enabled planning processes. This ...

City of Bartow

Planning Director

Bartow, FL · On-site

Job Summary Performs complex professional and difficult administrative work directing and coordinating all planning functions, programs and activities. Work is performed under general supervision of ...

Town of Fairview

Planning Director

Mckinney, TX

$115K - $173K/yr

Direct, supervise, and evaluate Planning Analyst position, providing leadership, guidance, and professional development to ensure effective delivery of planning, permitting, zoning, and related ...

Lane County, OR

Assistant Planning Director

OR · On-site

$89K - $122K/yr

As the Planning Supervisor / Assistant Planning Director , you will play a visible leadership role guiding how growth, conservation, and community priorities come together in practice. You won't just ...

AbelsonTaylor Group

Associate Planning Director

Chicago, IL · On-site

$115K - $140K/yr

The Associate Planning Director is an entry role into management and requires a mastery of Sr. Planner level duties and qualifications. The APD serves as Integrated Strategist supporting brands as a ...

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Planning Director information

See salary details

$63K

$114.1K

$188.5K

How much do planning director jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for planning director in the United States is $114,107.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $86,000.00 and $132,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Planning Director do?

A Planning Director oversees the development and implementation of plans and policies related to land use, urban development, and community growth. They manage planning departments, coordinate with government officials, developers, and the public, and guide comprehensive planning efforts. Additionally, they ensure that development projects comply with zoning laws and environmental regulations, and often lead public meetings to gather community input. Their role is essential in shaping the way cities and communities evolve over time.

How does a Planning Director typically collaborate with cross-functional teams to drive project success?

As a Planning Director, you will work closely with departments such as design, engineering, marketing, and finance to ensure projects align with both strategic goals and operational constraints. Regular meetings, clear communication, and strong leadership are essential, as you will often mediate between competing priorities and facilitate consensus. Building strong relationships and understanding each team's needs allows you to create realistic timelines and allocate resources effectively, which is critical for delivering successful outcomes. This collaborative environment also offers opportunities to mentor team members and influence organizational strategy.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Planning Director, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Planning Director, you need extensive experience in urban or regional planning, a relevant degree (such as urban planning or public administration), and often AICP certification. Proficiency with GIS software, data analysis tools, and project management systems is typically required. Exceptional leadership, negotiation, and strategic communication skills help you manage teams and engage diverse stakeholders effectively. These competencies are crucial to successfully guide complex planning initiatives and ensure sustainable, community-focused development.

What is the difference between Planning Director vs Urban Planner?

AspectPlanning DirectorUrban Planner
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Urban Planning, Geography, or related field; often with leadership experienceBachelor's or Master's in Urban Planning, Geography, or related field; entry to mid-level roles
Work EnvironmentSenior management in government agencies, consulting firms, or large organizations overseeing planning projectsPublic agencies, private firms, or non-profits involved in community development and land use
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in government, consulting, and large organizations for strategic planning leadershipCommon in municipal, regional, and private sector planning projects

The Planning Director typically holds a leadership role overseeing planning initiatives and teams, requiring extensive experience and advanced credentials. Urban Planners focus on developing and analyzing land use plans, often at a more operational level. While both roles require similar educational backgrounds, the Planning Director's role is more strategic and managerial.

More about Planning Director jobs
What cities are hiring for Planning Director jobs? Cities with the most Planning Director job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Planning jobs? The most popular types of Planning jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Planning Director jobs? The top employers for Planning Director jobs are:
What states have the most Planning Director jobs? States with the most job openings for Planning Director jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Planning Director jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Planning Director jobs are:
Planning Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Planning Director job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $114,107 per year, or $54.9 per hour.
PLANNING DIRECTOR

PLANNING DIRECTOR

Town of Hilton Head Island

Hilton Head Island, SC

$160K - $175K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

** Pracademic Partners is assisting the Town of Hilton Head Island
with this executive search. Information on how to submit your application
is provided after the position information below **
___________________________________________________________________

Planning Director

Shape the Future of One of America's Most Iconic Coastal Communities

Hilton Head Island is seeking a visionary, strategic leader to serve as its next Planning Director — a pivotal executive role at the heart of one of the Southeast's most beloved destinations. With a thriving community, sensitive coastal environment, and ambitious plans for the future, this is a career-defining opportunity for an experienced planning professional ready to lead with purpose.

POSITION DETAILS

Department: Planning | Salary Range: $160,000 – $175,000 | Reports To: Deputy Town Manager | FLSA Status: Exempt

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS Bachelor's in Urban Planning, Public Admin, Architecture, or related field (Master's preferred) | 10+ years of planning experience, with 7+ years in senior leadership | Coastal or tourism-driven municipality experience a plus | AICP Certification preferred

What You'll Do

  • Lead and execute strategic direction for all planning and development services — from long-range visioning and zoning policy to housing strategy and natural resource protection.
  • Serve as the Land Management Ordinance (LMO) Official and represent the department before Town Council, Planning Commission, Design Review Board, and regional/state/federal partners.
  • Drive the Town's Comprehensive Plan, Workforce Housing Framework, and Council goals from concept to implementation.
  • Mentor and develop a high-performing team including the Assistant Planning Director, Community Planning Manager, and Chief Housing Officer.
  • Manage department budgets, capital improvement programs, grants, and consultant services with a focus on fiscal accountability and innovation.
  • Champion community engagement and serve as a trusted bridge between residents, developers, elected officials, and partner organizations.

Who You Are

  • A proven executive with deep expertise in urban planning, land use policy, zoning, and community development.
  • A collaborative leader who thrives on building consensus, navigating politically sensitive issues, and forging lasting partnerships.
  • A skilled communicator with executive presence — equally comfortable presenting data to Council as you are listening at a neighborhood meeting.
  • A data-driven strategist with command of GIS tools, spatial analysis, and evidence-based decision-making.
  • A champion of smart growth, climate resilience, hazard mitigation, and equitable housing solutions.

Ready to make your mark on one of America's premier island communities?

Apply now and help shape the next chapter of Hilton Head Island.

HOW TO APPLY:
To express interest, please submit a cover letter, resume, and list of
three (3) professional references via email.
For clarity in document handling, please format your files as follows:
• FirstName LastName resume
• FirstName LastName cover letter
• FirstName LastName references
All application materials will be held in confidence and should be sent to:
ian@pracademicpartners.com
Subject line: Planning Director - Town of Hilton Head Island
Employment is contingent upon a background check, drug and medical screening.
This position is considered open until a final selection is made.
Candidates are strongly encouraged to apply by May 29, 2026.
___________________________________________________________________
Pracademic Partners is assisting the Town of Hilton Head Island with this executive search. For inquiries or nominations, please contact: Dr. Ian M. Coyle, ICMA-CM 585.943.0589
___________________________________________________________________
Town of Hilton Head Island is an Equal Opportunity Employer and encourages candidates from diverse backgrounds to apply.

Apply