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Principal Planner Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

Interwest Group

Principal Planner

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

Principal Planner - Sacramento, CA Interwest Consulting Group was founded in 2002 and has become a leader in providing municipal services to cities and counties throughout the Western United States.

Town of Clayton

Principal Planner

Clayton, NC · On-site

$76K/yr

The Town of Clayton is seeking applicants for a Principal Planner for the Planning Department. The Town of Clayton employs more than 340 full-time staff in areas including police, fire, and electric ...

City of Raleigh, NC

Principal Planner

Fayetteville, NC · On-site +1

$80K - $124K/yr

Monday - Friday; 8:30 am - 5:15 pm Hiring Range: $80,400.00 - $102,500.00 The City of Raleigh is seeking a Principal Planner to join our Planning and Development Department. This role will lead high ...

Monroe County, FL

Principal Planner

Marathon, FL · On-site

$81K - $130K/yr

The Principal Planner ensures that all development permitted in unincorporated Monroe County is well designed, consistent with the Comprehensive Plan, and in compliance with all applicable Land ...

York County, SC

Principal Planner

York, SC · On-site

$73K - $87K/yr

About our opportunity About our opportunity We are excited to hire a full-time Principal Planner to join our team! The purpose of this position is to develop and implement long-range planning efforts ...

York County Government

Principal Planner

York, SC · On-site

$73K/yr

About our opportunity About our opportunity We are excited to hire a full-time Principal Planner to join our team. The purpose of this position is to develop and implement long-range planning efforts ...

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Principal Planner information

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$56K

$102K

$155.5K

How much do principal planner jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 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 a principal planner?

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.

What does a principal planner do?

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.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a principal planner?

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 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.

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Principal Planner jobs near you
Infographic showing various Principal Planner job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,002 per year, or $49 per hour.

Principal Planner

HELIX ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING

Sacramento, CA • On-site

$145K - $195K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 28 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