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Planning Director Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Frederick County, VA

Assistant Planning Director

Winchester, VA · On-site

$113K - $130K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

Reporting to the Director of Planning and Development, this position oversees key planning programs, supervises staff, and collaborates with County departments, community partners, and regional ...

Toole Design

Planning Director - Mid-Atlantic

Arlington, VA · On-site

$140K - $170K/yr

  • PTO

We're looking for an experienced Planning Director to join our growing Mid-Atlantic* team. If you enjoy big-picture strategy, leading teams, advancing project management and business development, and ...

Toole Design

Planning Director - Mid-Atlantic

Richmond, VA · On-site +1

$130K - $155K/yr

  • PTO

We're looking for an experienced Planning Director to join our growing Mid-Atlantic * team. If you enjoy big-picture strategy, leading teams, advancing project management and business development ...

Toole Design

Planning Director - Mid-Atlantic

Arlington, VA · On-site +1

$140K - $170K/yr

  • PTO

We're looking for an experienced Planning Director to join our growing Mid-Atlantic * team. If you enjoy big-picture strategy, leading teams, advancing project management and business development ...

Toole Design

Planning Director - Mid-Atlantic

Richmond, VA · On-site

$130K - $155K/yr

  • PTO

We're looking for an experienced Planning Director to join our growing Mid-Atlantic * team. If you enjoy big-picture strategy, leading teams, advancing project management and business development ...

Toole Design

Planning Director - Mid-Atlantic

Richmond, VA · On-site

$130K - $155K/yr

  • PTO

We're looking for an experienced Planning Director to join our growing Mid-Atlantic* team. If you enjoy big-picture strategy, leading teams, advancing project management and business development, and ...

Toole Design

Planning Director - Mid-Atlantic

Arlington, VA · On-site

$140K - $170K/yr

  • PTO

We're looking for an experienced Planning Director to join our growing Mid-Atlantic * team. If you enjoy big-picture strategy, leading teams, advancing project management and business development ...

Powhatan County

Director of Planning

Powhatan, VA

$115K - $130K/yr

Position Description This position is responsible for directing the county's planning and zoning functions, as well as the Powhatan County Permit Center. Position Objectives Directs the functions of ...

Powhatan County, VA

Director of Planning

Powhatan, VA · On-site

$115K - $130K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Planning Opening Date: 08/10/2026 Position Description This position is responsible for directing the county's planning and zoning functions, as well as the Powhatan County Permit Center. Position ...

Cisco

Strategy & Planning (NPI), Lead

Herndon, VA

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Your Impact As the Strategy & Planning - NPI (Cloud and AI) Lead, within Splunk Sales Deal Strategy & Execution - Global Programs team, you'll guide critical initiatives across Splunk & broader Cisco ...

Socket.dev

Director, Financial Planning

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$125 - $350/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Retirement

Direct client-facing experience in a fee-based wealth management or planning role * Results driven approach with a consistent track record to form relationships * Desire for role with base salary ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsPlanning JobsPlanning Director JobsPlanning Director Jobs in Virginia

Planning Director information

See Virginia salary details

$62.5K

$113.1K

$186.9K

How much do planning director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for planning director in Virginia is $113,128.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $85,300.00 and $131,400.00 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Planning jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Planning jobs in Virginia are:

What are popular job titles related to Planning Director jobs in Virginia?

For Planning Director jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Planning Director jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Planning Director jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Planning Director jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Planning Director job openings:

Planning Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Planning Director job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $113,128 per year, or $54.4 per hour.

Assistant Planning Director

Frederick County, VA

Winchester, VA • On-site

$113K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life

Posted 24 days ago

Job description

Salary: $113,326.00 - $130,325.00 Annually
Location : 107 N Kent. St., Winchester, VA
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 00730
Department: PLANNING
Opening Date: 07/22/2026
Description
The County is seeking an experienced planning professional to help lead current and long-range planning, zoning administration, and transportation initiatives. Reporting to the Director of Planning and Development, this position oversees key planning programs, supervises staff, and collaborates with County departments, community partners, and regional agencies to implement strategic planning initiatives and Board priorities. The ideal candidate is a collaborative leader with strong technical expertise, a commitment to exceptional customer service, and a passion for fostering a professional, solutions-oriented team culture.
What You'll Do:
As an Assistant Planning Director, you will:
  • Assist the Planning Director in the overall administration, strategic planning, operational management, and budgeting of the Planning Department.
  • Provide exceptional customer service by responding to complex inquiries, resolving planning issues, and assisting citizens, applicants, developers, and public officials.
  • Participates in various development reviews and pre-development meetings to provide information and guidance applicable to the County's Development goals, objectives, and initiatives.
  • Prepares reports and staff recommendations on the likely impacts of rezoning applications and presents these reports to the Planning Commission and Board of Supervisors.
  • Responds to inquiries from the public and elected and appointed officials regarding planning activities.
  • Coordinates with state and local agencies on planning issues.
  • Prepares presentations and interacts with citizens and citizen groups to facilitate public input and provide information.
  • Provides project management and coordination for assigned projects.
  • Monitors proposed federal and statewide policy initiatives affecting planning and development activities in the County.
  • Attends and presents at meetings of the Planning Commission, Board of Supervisors, and various committees.
  • Staffs the assigned committees.
  • Assists in the development and implementation of the County's comprehensive planning initiatives, strategic planning efforts, and long-range land use policies.
  • Supervises department staff as assigned by the Planning Director.
  • Performs related duties as assigned.

What We're Looking For:
  • Possess a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in urban and regional planning, transportation, community development, public administration, or a related field; a master's degree is preferred.
  • Minimum of six (6) years of progressively responsible professional experience in urban planning, transportation planning, community development, zoning administration, or related planning disciplines, including project management and supervisory experience.
  • Must possess a valid driver's license.
  • American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) certification is highly desired.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, GIS, permitting systems, and planning-related software as applicable.

Supplemental Information
Physical Demands: This position primarily performs office-based work and requires light physical activity, including sitting for extended periods, standing, walking, bending, reaching, and occasional lifting of up to 30 pounds. The ability to communicate effectively, hear conversations, and use a computer to prepare and review documents is required. Work is performed in a typical office environment with a moderate noise level.
Work Environment: Work is performed primarily in a heated and air-conditioned office. Occasional outdoor work may be required, with exposure to varying weather conditions, including heat, cold, humidity, and other seasonal elements.
To learn more about Frederick County, Virginia employee benefits, please visit the following webpage:
All positions are subject to a criminal background check for any convictions that relate to the job duties and responsibilities. Frederick County Virginia Government is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
The County's EEO Utilization Report is available at www.fcva.us/jobs
There are a wide variety of benefits available to Frederick County employees. These benefits include: health, dental, vision, life insurance, optional life and disability plans, flexible spending account for health care, dependent care assistance program, an employee assistance program and a deferred compensation program.
Please click to view our Frederick County Employee Benefits information page with full details on all insurance plans offered.

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