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Trail Planner Jobs (NOW HIRING)

We are seeking a Senior Transportation Planner with experience in transportation planning to support and help lead active transportation, trail, and multimodal projects across Utah and the ...

Senior Transportation Planner

Seattle, WA · On-site

$120K - $170K/yr

We are seeking a Senior Transportation Planner with experience in transportation planning to support and help lead active transportation, trail, and multimodal projects across Utah and the ...

Senior Transportation Planner

Denver, CO · On-site

$120K - $170K/yr

We are seeking a Senior Transportation Planner with experience in transportation planning to support and help lead active transportation, trail, and multimodal projects across Utah and the ...

Senior Transportation Planner

Dallas, TX · On-site

$120K - $170K/yr

We are seeking a Senior Transportation Planner with experience in transportation planning to support and help lead active transportation, trail, and multimodal projects across Utah and the ...

Research Assistant - Black Heritage Trail

Clemson, SC · On-site

$16.25 - $22.50/hr

... planning and implementing community engagement initiatives related to the Trail Project; support the development and coordination of public programs and community events; help prepare outreach ...

Trail Administrator

Gaffney, SC · On-site +1

$89K - $116K/yr

Summary You will serve as a Trail Administrator the Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail in ... range interpretive planning, visitor use planning, standards, and priorities for OVVI.

Planner III

Santa Barbara, CA · On-site

$109K - $131K/yr

The Parks Planner position with the Community Services Department performs park and trail planning, reviews proposed developments for consistency with County policy and Parks programs, calculates ...

Showing results 41-60

Trail Planner information

See salary details

$33K

$69.6K

$113K

How much do trail planner jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for trail planner in the United States is $69,591.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,000.00 and $81,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a trail planner do?

A Trail Planner is responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining trails for recreational use, such as hiking, biking, or equestrian paths. Their job includes assessing environmental impact, mapping out routes, ensuring trail sustainability, and coordinating with landowners, government agencies, and other stakeholders. Trail Planners often conduct field surveys, analyze terrain, and work to balance conservation goals with public access. They also help secure permits, funding, and community support for trail projects.

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

To thrive as a Trail Planner, you need expertise in landscape architecture, environmental science, and GIS mapping, often supported by a related degree or certification. Familiarity with software like ArcGIS, AutoCAD, and trail design standards is typically required. Strong project management, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills set exceptional trail planners apart. These competencies ensure the creation of sustainable, accessible, and well-integrated trails that meet both environmental and community needs.

What are some common challenges faced by trail planners when balancing environmental concerns and community needs?

Trail Planners often navigate the complex task of designing routes that both protect sensitive ecosystems and serve the needs of local communities. This may include conducting environmental impact assessments, engaging with stakeholders, and finding innovative solutions to minimize habitat disruption while ensuring accessibility and safety for users. Balancing these factors requires strong communication skills and a collaborative approach with environmental scientists, local governments, and community organizations. Successfully addressing these challenges is a key part of creating sustainable and enjoyable trails.

What is the difference between Trail Planner vs Trail Designer?

AspectTrail PlannerTrail Designer
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in environmental planning, civil engineering, or related field; certifications in GIS or land management are commonOften needs similar degrees; certifications in landscape architecture or trail design are beneficial
Work EnvironmentFieldwork and office work, collaborating with land agencies, communities, and environmental groupsPrimarily office-based with site visits; focuses on detailed trail layouts and aesthetic design
Employer & IndustryGovernment agencies, land trusts, outdoor recreation organizationsLandscape architecture firms, outdoor recreation companies, government agencies

Trail Planners focus on project planning, permitting, and environmental considerations, while Trail Designers concentrate on the detailed aesthetic and technical design of trails. Both roles often collaborate but serve different stages of trail development.

Who are the top companies hiring for Trail Planner jobs?

The top employers for Trail Planner jobs are:

What states have the most Trail Planner jobs?

States with the most job openings for Trail Planner jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Trail Planner jobs?

For Trail Planner jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Trail Planner job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 66% Full Time, 28% Part Time, and 6% Temporary. Highlights an 88% In-person, 6% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,591 per year, or $33.5 per hour.

Senior Transportation Planner

Albuquerque, NM • On-site

Mannik Smith Group
Civil Engineering Construction • 201 - 500 employees

$125 - $150/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


Mannik & Smith Group rating

5.9

Company rating: 5.9 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

423rd of 454 rated engineering


Job description

Senior Transportation Planner

Department: Transportation

Employment Type: Full Time

Location: Albuquerque, NM

Compensation: $120,000 - $170,000 / year

Description

Unmatched Comp Time Policy: Hours worked over 40 in a week are paid at the usual hourly rate or can be banked as additional PTO.

At Horrocks, we believe the best work comes from a company that values people as our greatest resource and recognizes our responsibility to the communities where we live and work. We are seeking a Senior Transportation Planner with experience in transportation planning to support and help lead active transportation, trail, and multimodal projects across Utah and the Intermountain West.

This role is ideal for a planner who enjoys both technical and planning-level work, and who is passionate about improving mobility, connectivity, and quality of life through trails, shared-use paths, and complete streets.

What are the core responsibilities for the role?
  • Lead and support the planning and development of active transportation facilities, including shared-use paths, trails, bike lanes, and complete streets
  • Manage corridor studies, concept studies, active transportation plans, feasibility studies, and NEPA/PEL-related planning efforts
  • Prepare and review technical memoranda, reports, and planning documents for transportation and trail projects
  • Lead and coordinate with multidisciplinary teams, including traffic, drainage, roadway, structures, utilities, and right-of-way
  • Lead project management activities, including scope, schedule, budget, and quality control
  • Analyze transportation, land use, and mobility data to inform planning recommendations
  • Assist with and play a key role in public and stakeholder engagement efforts, including meetings, workshops, and presentations
  • Communicate technical information clearly through strong written deliverables and verbal presentations
  • Mentor junior staff and contribute to a collaborative team environment
  • Lead business development and client relationship efforts as appropriate
Qualifications, Skills, and Competencies:
  • Bachelor’s degree in Urban Planning, Transportation Planning, Civil Engineering, or a related field (required)
  • 15+ years of experience in transportation planning and/or multimodal project development
  • Experience managing active transportation, trails, or multimodal projects
  • Strong understanding of current national and local guidelines, particularly for bicycle and pedestrian facilities
  • Proficiency in GIS and/or transportation planning and analysis toolsExperience preparing and reviewing technical reports, studies, and planning documentation
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills, including experience presenting to clients, stakeholders, and public audiences
  • Ability to work across multiple phases of planning projects
  • Self-motivated with strong organizational skills and attention to detail
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience working directly with UDOT or on UDOT-funded projects
  • Experience with trail planning and design, including alignment development and user experience considerations
  • Background in corridor planning, active transportation plans, or multimodal network development
  • Experience working with state DOTs, MPOs, and/or local agencies
  • Interest in innovative mobility solutions and emerging best practices in active transportation
  • Experience supporting public involvement and stakeholder coordination
  • Experience mentoring junior staff
Why would a candidate want this job?

At Horrocks, you can expect a competitive base salary and award-winning benefits. Including, but not limited to:

  • Medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance
  • Generous paid time off
  • 401(k): 50% match of contribution up to 6%
  • Professional development opportunities including in-house training
  • Paid professional organization membership and professional licensure

For more information, visit our website at www.horrocks.com

Equal Opportunity Employer including disability and protected veteran status

EEO — All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected characteristic.

We provide fair and equal treatment to all candidates, including reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals. If you require an accommodation during the application process, please email us at Recruiting@horrock.com and include your name, the job title, and the location of the position you are applying for. Our team will respond as promptly as possible.

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