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Planning Director Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Planning Director - Mid-Atlantic

Arlington, VA ยท On-site +1

$140K - $170K/yr

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 ...

Planning Director - Mid-Atlantic

Richmond, VA ยท On-site

$130K - $155K/yr

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 ...

Planning Director - Mid-Atlantic

Richmond, VA ยท On-site

$130K - $155K/yr

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 ...

Reporting directly to the Head of Tax Planning, the Director of Tax Planning will lead the development and execution of Intuitive's global tax planning initiatives, supporting worldwide expansion and ...

Reporting directly to the Head of Tax Planning, the Director of Tax Planning will lead the development and execution of Intuitive's global tax planning initiatives, supporting worldwide expansion and ...

Reporting directly to the Head of Tax Planning, the Director of Tax Planning will lead the development and execution of Intuitive's global tax planning initiatives, supporting worldwide expansion and ...

Planning Director / Team Leader - Houston, TX Halff, is seeking to immediately hire an experienced Planning Team Leader to lead the growing team in the Houston, Texas, office. This is a rare ...

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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 Jun 8, 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:

Planning Director - Mid-Atlantic

Toole Design

Silver Spring, MD โ€ข On-site

$140K - $170K/yr

Full-time

PTO

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

At Toole Design, we're leading the way in creating safer, more connected communities through sustainable multimodal transportation design. 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 delivering innovative mobility solutions, while working at a firm committed to employee well-being, we'd love to hear from you.

*This position can be located in: Silver Spring, MD (full office); Richmond, VA (remote to start); or Northern Virginia (remote to start).

Why You'll Love Working Here

We're not just another firm, we're a purpose-driven team of engineers, planners, landscape architects, and urban designers who believe streets should work for everyone. At Toole Design, you'll work alongside thought leaders and industry experts who are committed to mentoring and helping you grow your expertise. We offer:

  • A collaborative, inclusive culture that supports your growth and advancement
  • A hybrid schedule with shared team days on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays
  • 8 paid holidays; and 20 days of PTO accrued annually
  • Competitive salary, excellent benefits, and transportation perks: Benefits and Support
  • Projects that truly improve lives through safe, inclusive design rooted in ethics, empathy, and equity

What You'll Do

As Regional Planning Director for the Mid-Atlantic, you will help lead and grow our planning practice, working closely with Office Directors, the Regional Operations Director, and national leadership. A key focus of this role is identifying and pursuing new market opportunities - including emerging project types, geographic expansion, and pre-teaming relationships with key partners. You will serve as Principal-in-Charge, Project Manager, or Quality Control lead on complex multimodal transportation projects, providing strategic oversight and ensuring high-quality, equity-centered work. You'll support and mentor our 13 planners across the region, balance workloads and utilization, and help recruit and retain a talented, inclusive team.

What You Bring:

  • Bachelor's or master's degree in urban planning, landscape architecture, urban design, or a related field; AICP preferred
  • A minimum of 12 years of planning experience, 15+ years preferred, in transportation and with at least 5 years of professional services consulting
  • A minimum of 5 years of experience in a consulting firm or similar, managing and delivering projects for public sector clients and pursuing and winning work
  • Experience managing and mentoring a team, including workloads, coaching, and recruiting
  • Demonstrated success managing complex transportation projects, consultants and subconsultants, and managing schedules and budgets
  • Experience building and nurturing genuine relationships with other transportation professionals within and outside your organization
  • A strong interest in multimodal and active transportation planning and design

You'll be great here if you:

  • Are entrepreneurial, enjoy building teams, and think strategically about growth and opportunity
  • Can develop new techniques, explore emerging practice areas, and lead projects using innovative tools
  • Communicate clearly, solve problems thoughtfully, and deliver high-quality work on time and on budget-while inspiring others to do the same

Join Us. Make an Impact. We're proud to be an ENR Top 500 design firm with one of the lowest turnover rates in the industry. If you're ready to do meaningful work with a supportive, talented team-apply today. Please submit a cover letter.

We are targeting a salary of $140,000 to $170,000 for this position. Candidates with more years of experience or exceptional qualifications may fall into a different pay range.

Questions, assistance or accommodations? Contact HR@tooledesign.com or call 301-927-1900, press 5.

At Toole Design, we foster a collaborative culture and welcome people of all backgrounds to help build more inclusive communities. We strongly encourage women and applicants from underrepresented communities โ€“ people of color, LGBTQIA+, immigrants, first-generation college students/graduates, those with disabilities and people at all the intersections in between โ€“ to apply. We're proud that about half our managers are women and we are committed to diverse leadership that reflects the communities we serve. Toole Design is a woman-owned, equal opportunity employer (EO/AA/VEV/Disabled employer).

For more information about Toole Design, visit our website and follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, or Facebook.


Job Posted by ApplicantPro