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Principal Planner Jobs (NOW HIRING)

About our opportunity We are excited to hire a Principal Planner to join their team in the Planning and Development Department. The purpose of this position is to supervise and provide support to the ...

Principal Planner (Parks)

Escondido, CA · On-site

$108K - $160K/yr

This vacancy may be hired as a Principal Planner (Parks) or a Senior Planner (Parks) level) The City of Escondido is seeking highly-motivated candidates to join a team of dynamic, supportive, and ...

Principal Planner

Stafford, VA · On-site

$88K - $155K/yr

... Principal Planner for the Stafford County Planning and Zoning Department. This is a dynamic role that is challenging and rewarding, and the skills you will develop in the position provide a good ...

... Principal Planner for the Stafford County Planning and Zoning Department. This is a dynamic role that is challenging and rewarding, and the skills you will develop in the position provide a good ...

May lead lower-level planners by communicating work priorities; provide technical assistance; verify accuracy of work * Ensure product is moving from production to packaging to shipping * Create ...

Presents to the Planning Commission in a public televised setting and serves in an advisory role while conveying an understanding of development challenges; advises the Planning Commission regarding ...

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Principal Planner information

See salary details

$56K

$102K

$155.5K

How much do principal planner jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 9, 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 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.

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.
More about Principal Planner jobs
What cities are hiring for Principal Planner jobs? Cities with the most Principal Planner job openings:
Who are the top companies hiring for Principal Planner jobs? The top employers for Principal Planner jobs are:
What states have the most Principal Planner jobs? States with the most job openings for Principal Planner jobs include:
What are popular job titles related to Principal Planner jobs? For Principal Planner jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Principal Planner job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 3% 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.

$1M - $2M/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago


Job description

About us York County is located in the Piedmont region, between the Broad River and the Catawba River. Its diverse landscape is home to family-friendly towns/cities, a progressive urban region and lakefront communities. We are excited that you want to join our team and recognize that our employees are the foundation for our success.

Mission Statement- York County provides quality public services in an open, efficient, and responsive manner. Vision Statement - York County provides an environment where all citizens and businesses can thrive and succeed. Core Values -Excellence through Professionalism Respect - respect builds bridges, not silos.

How we live it. Golden rule - treat others as you want to be treated. Dedicated- strong work ethic.How we live it

Persistence, reliability and commitment to do your best. Integrity- do the right thing instead of what is convenient. How we live it.

Displaying strong moral principles. Knowledgeable- ready and able. How we live it.

Having the right competencies necessary for achievement. Friendly- service with a smile. How we live it.

Being respectful, pleasant and helpful to ALL. About our opportunity We are excited to hire a Principal Planner to join their team in the Planning and Development Department. The purpose of this position is to supervise and provide support to the Zoning Planners and Landscape Architect; reviews larger, more complex tasks and projects including, sketch plans, site plan review, variances, special exceptions, administrative appeals, and major subdivisions.

This position open until filled with applications being reviewed weekly. The position may close at any time or when sufficient candidates have been received. All communication to candidates will come from the hiring committee via email.

Projected Hiring Range/Pay Grade 122: $73,287.79 - $87,945.35. Salary is dependent on experience and education. Our Total Compensation Package: Compensation - competitive market-rate pay, and negotiable based on qualifications

Comprehensive State Medical Insurance, Dental and Vision Insurance Life Insurance Long-term disability Parental Leave Bereavement Leave Deferred Compensation 401K Plans Health Savings Account (HSA) Public Loan Forgiveness Program (Student Loan Forgiveness Program) 11 Paid Holidays + 3 Optional Holidays Longevity Pay SC State Retirement Plan Pension Paid Vacation and Sick Time Expanded Sick Bank Critical Care and Cancer Insurance Wellness Screenings Employee Assistance Programs Professional Development / Trainings / Conferences Paid uniforms Duties and Responsibilities: Supervises, directs, and evaluates assigned staff, processing employee concerns and problems, directing work, counseling, disciplining, and completing employee performance appraisals. Coordinates, assigns and reviews work and establishes work schedules; maintains standards; monitors status of work in progress; inspects completed work assignments; answers questions; gives advice and direction as needed. Reviews plans submitted to the department for compliance with current regulations.

Prepares and presents complex subdivisions, special exceptions, waivers, administrative appeals, and variances to the Board of Zoning Appeals and/or Planning Commission, which requires the ability to drive and operate a vehicle. Attends meetings with internal and external customers and provides technical zoning information for proposed projects. Provides guidance and supervision to subordinate staff by mentorship and open communication.

Implements and enforces the York County Zoning and Land Development Codes. Performs related work as assigned. About you Education and Experience: Bachelor's Degree in Urban Planning, Civil Engineering, or related discipline.

Master's degree preferred. Six (6) years of experience in project review and compliance with local regulations, or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience. Certifications / Licenses: Must possess and maintain a valid state driver's license with an acceptable driving history.

American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) preferred. Applicants with equivalent experience and/or education may be considered. Physical Demands / Work Environment / Disclaimer Physical Demands: Physical demands refer to the requirements for physical exertion and coordination of limb and body movement.

Performs sedentary work that involves walking or standing some of the time and involves exerting up to 10 pounds of force on a regular and recurring basis or sustained keyboard operations. Americans with Disabilities Act Compliance York County is an Equal Opportunity Employer. ADA requires the County to provide reasonable accommodations to qualified persons with disabilities.

Prospective and current employees are encouraged to discuss ADA accommodations with management. Standard Clauses May be required to work nights, weekends, holidays and emergencies (man-made or natural) to meet the business needs of the County. This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of essential functions and responsibilities that are required of an employee for this job.

Other duties, responsibilities, and activities may change or be assigned at any time with or without notice.