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Principal Planner Jobs (NOW HIRING)

City of Sacramento, CA

Principal Planner

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$109K - $154K/yr

The Principal Planner is distinguished from the next lower level classification of Senior Planner in that the latter is a first line supervisor over a project team while the former has responsibility ...

City of Sacramento

Principal Planner

Sacramento, CA · Hybrid

$109K - $154K/yr

The Principal Planner is distinguished from the next lower level classification of Senior Planner in that the latter is a first line supervisor over a project team while the former has responsibility ...

City of San Marcos, CA

PRINCIPAL PLANNER

San Marcos, CA · On-site

$118K - $164K/yr

Our Principal Planner must be responsive, tactful, collaborative, and accountable to our community and customers. This includes working with our residents and other stakeholder groups to deliver ...

Career Search

Principal Planner

Stockbridge, GA

Position Summary The Principal Planner serves as a senior-level professional responsible for managing complex planning projects, supervising planning staff, and providing expert guidance on land use ...

City of San Marcos

PRINCIPAL PLANNER

San Marcos, CA

$118K - $164K/yr

Our Principal Planner must be responsive, tactful, collaborative, and accountable to our community and customers. This includes working with our residents and other stakeholder groups to deliver ...

City of Santa Cruz, CA

Principal Planner

Santa Cruz, CA · On-site

$134K - $172K/yr

Distinguishing Characteristics The Principal Planner is the classification responsible for planning, organizing and directing the work activities of the advance planning or current planning divisions ...

City of Watsonville

Principal Planner

Watsonville, CA

$112K - $150K/yr

In addition to managing the current planning division, the Principal Planner may take on complex residential, commercial, and mixed-use projects in the Downtown Watsonville Specific Plan area, assist ...

City of Del Mar, CA

Principal Planner

Del Mar, CA · On-site +1

$129K - $157K/yr

Planning and Community Development Opening Date: 03/18/2026 Closing Date: Continuous The Position The City of Del Mar is recruiting for a seasoned Principal Planner assigned to the Current Planning ...

City of Stockbridge

Principal Planner

Stockbridge, GA · On-site

$69K - $108K/yr

Description Position Summary The Principal Planner serves as a senior-level professional responsible for managing complex planning projects, supervising planning staff, and providing expert guidance ...

Solano County

Planner (Principal)

Fairfield, CA · On-site

$5K - $6K/wk

The Planning (Principal) is responsible to supervise the work of subordinate personnel involved with the preparation of current planning and/or long-range planning projects. The incumbent manages a ...

City of Santa Cruz

Principal Planner

Santa Cruz, CA · On-site

$134K - $172K/yr

The Position The City of Santa Cruz is seeking an innovative and collaborative Principal Planner to oversee the Advance Planning Division of the Community Development Department. We are proud to be ...

City of Watsonville, CA

Principal Planner

Watsonville, CA · On-site

$112K - $150K/yr

In addition to managing the current planning division, the Principal Planner may take on complex residential, commercial, and mixed-use projects in the Downtown Watsonville Specific Plan area, assist ...

SigSauer

Principal Planner

Rochester, NH

Principal Planner SIG SAUER, Inc. is a leading provider and manufacturer of firearms, electro-optics, ammunition, airguns, suppressors, remote controlled weapons stations, and training. For over 250 ...

SIG Sauer

Principal Planner

Rochester, NH · On-site

Principal Planner SIG SAUER, Inc. is a leading provider and manufacturer of firearms, electro-optics, ammunition, airguns, suppressors, remote controlled weapons stations, and training. For over 250 ...

Solano County

Planner (Principal)

Fairfield, CA

$64.37 - $9K/hr

The Planning (Principal) is responsible to supervise the work of subordinate personnel involved with the preparation of current planning and/or long-range planning projects. The incumbent manages a ...

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All JobsPrincipal Planner Jobs

Principal Planner information

See salary details

$56K

$102K

$155.5K

How much do principal planner jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal planner in the United States is $102,002.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,000.00 and $120,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Principal Planner vs Senior Planner?

AspectPrincipal PlannerSenior Planner
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Urban Planning, Certification (AICP)Bachelor's or Master's in Urban Planning, Certification (AICP)
Work EnvironmentLeadership roles in planning projects, strategic oversightProject management, detailed planning tasks
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment agencies, large consulting firmsMunicipalities, private planning firms
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding senior-level planning rolesLooking for experienced planning professionals

The Principal Planner typically holds a leadership position with strategic oversight, requiring advanced credentials like AICP certification. They often work in government agencies or large consulting firms. In contrast, a Senior Planner focuses on managing specific projects and detailed planning tasks, usually within municipalities or smaller firms. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and certifications, but the Principal Planner's role emphasizes leadership and strategic planning, while the Senior Planner concentrates on project execution.

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

To thrive as a Principal Planner, you need expertise in urban planning, land use regulations, and project management, typically supported by a degree in urban planning or a related field and relevant professional experience. Familiarity with GIS software, zoning codes, and planning documentation systems is essential, and certifications like AICP are often preferred. Outstanding communication, negotiation, and leadership skills help you guide teams and engage stakeholders effectively. These competencies ensure well-coordinated planning initiatives, compliance with regulations, and successful community development outcomes.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

A Principal Planner typically earns a salary that varies by location and experience, but reaching $10,000 a month without a degree is uncommon. High-paying roles without formal degrees often include skilled trades like commercial pilot, real estate developer, or sales manager, which rely on experience, certifications, or licenses rather than formal education. Most roles with such high earnings require specialized skills, industry experience, or entrepreneurial success.

What jobs pay 500,000 a year in the US?

Principal planners typically do not earn $500,000 annually; such high salaries are more common in executive roles like CEOs, investment bankers, or specialized medical professionals. Certain high-level executives or successful entrepreneurs can reach this income level, often through bonuses, stock options, or profit sharing. Most planning roles, including principal planners, have salaries significantly below this threshold unless combined with executive responsibilities or ownership stakes.

What types of projects and responsibilities can a Principal Planner expect to manage on a typical day?

As a Principal Planner, you'll often oversee complex planning projects such as land use studies, zoning code updates, or long-range community plans. Your day may involve coordinating with multidisciplinary teams, leading public meetings, and reviewing development proposals for compliance with policies and regulations. Principal Planners also mentor junior staff, provide technical expertise, and frequently collaborate with local government officials, stakeholders, and the public to ensure projects align with community goals. The role requires balancing administrative tasks with hands-on project management and strategic planning.

How much does a principal planner earn?

A principal planner typically earns between $80,000 and $130,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the organization. They often hold advanced degrees and certifications such as AICP, and may oversee planning projects and teams in government or private sectors.

What are Principal Planners?

Principal Planners are senior-level professionals in urban and regional planning who lead the development, coordination, and implementation of planning projects and policies. They often supervise teams, provide expert guidance on land use, zoning, transportation, and community development, and serve as key advisors to government agencies or private firms. Principal Planners are responsible for ensuring that projects align with local, state, and federal regulations, and they often represent their organizations in public meetings and hearings. Their work is crucial in shaping sustainable and functional communities.

How to become a principal planner?

To become a principal planner, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in urban planning, geography, or a related field, along with several years of experience in planning roles. Many employers prefer candidates with a master's degree in urban or regional planning and professional certification such as the American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP). Strong leadership, project management skills, and proficiency with planning software are also important for this senior-level position.
More about Principal Planner jobs
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Principal Planner jobs near you
Principal Planner

Principal Planner

HELIX ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING

Sacramento, CA • On-site

$145K - $195K/yr

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
Step into a leadership role where strategy, influence, and environmental impact intersect. As a Principal Planner, you'll shape the future of environmental planning across Northern California while helping grow a respected, employee-owned consulting firm. This Principal Planner role is ideal for a seasoned leader ready to drive business development, mentor high-performing teams, and deliver complex CEQA/NEPA projects with excellence.
Why HELIX?
At HELIX Environmental Planning, we're passionate about smart growth, environmental stewardship, and collaborative problem-solving. As a Principal Planner, you'll join a mission-driven, employee-owned firm known for technical excellence and a supportive, people-first culture. This Principal Planner position offers a hybrid schedule, with a preference for working from our Folsom or Roseville office at least two days per week - more if you prefer! We value flexibility, trust, and long-term career growth.
A Day in the Life
A typical day as a Principal Planner includes leading high-visibility CEQA/NEPA projects, connecting with key clients and agencies, mentoring planners and specialists, and collaborating across HELIX disciplines. You'll represent HELIX in meetings, interviews, and industry events while playing a strategic role in expanding our Northern California Environmental Planning Group.
What You'll Do
As a Principal Planner, you will:
• Lead corporate and regional business development initiatives
• Build and strengthen long-term client and agency relationships
• Identify and pursue new contract opportunities and preferred clients
• Manage large, complex CEQA/NEPA compliance projects and on-call contracts
• Ensure projects are delivered on time, on budget, and to HELIX standards
• Prepare proposals and participate in interviews to win new work
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams across HELIX offices
• Represent HELIX at public meetings, hearings, and professional events
• Mentor, recruit, and develop environmental planning staff
Salary will be based on qualifications and/or experience, with a robust benefits package. Expected starting pay range of $145,000 to $195,000.
Ready to take the next step in your career as a Principal Planner? Apply today and help lead impactful environmental solutions with HELIX.
HELIX is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and an inclusive work environment. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply regardless of gender, race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), parental status, national origin, disability, age, genetic information (including family medical history), political affiliation, military service or veteran status. These protections extend to all management practices and decisions, including recruitment and hiring, appraisal systems, promotions, training, and career development programs.
PM21
Requirements
Minimum Requirements
  • Bachelor's degree in environmental studies, environmental science, environmental engineering, public planning, or related field
  • 10+ years managing CEQA/NEPA programs, including 5+ years as a CEQA/NEPA consultant
  • Proven business development experience with active Northern/Central California client relationships
  • Strong writing, communication, and presentation skills
  • Experience managing large, multidisciplinary projects
  • Ability to work from a HELIX office in Folsom or Roseville at least two days per week

Preferred Requirements
  • Master's degree or higher in a related field
  • AICP or Certified Environmental Planner certification
  • Experience managing direct reports

Salary Description
Range of $145,000 to $195,000

Apply