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Urban Planner Government Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Layton City

Full-Time City Planner

Layton, UT

... to local government planning and zoning, economics, sociology and community organization as applied to urban planning; planning and zoning and subdivision law, theory and application; the ...

New

City of Sarasota

$33.91/hr

Bachelor Degree with specialization in Urban Planning or a closely related field. * Three (3) years ... government agencies, and the general public. * Ability to present ideas and findings clearly and ...

Layton City

City Planner

Layton, UT · On-site

$46.01 - $64.42/hr

... to local government planning and zoning, economics, sociology and community organization as applied to urban planning; planning and zoning and subdivision law, theory and application; the ...

destinationone Consulting

City Planner

Denver, CO · On-site

Requirements Bachelor's degree in Urban Planning, Geography, or related field. Professional ... Government (Municipal, State/Provincial, and Federal), Health and MedTech, Healthcare and Wellness ...

destinationone Consulting

City Planner

Miami, FL · On-site

Requirements Bachelor's degree in Urban Planning, Geography, or related field. Professional ... Government (Municipal, State/Provincial, and Federal), Health and MedTech, Healthcare and Wellness ...

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How much do urban planner government jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for urban planner government in the United States is $75,033.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59,000.00 and $84,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an urban planner do in government?

An Urban Planner in the government is responsible for developing and implementing land-use plans, zoning regulations, and community projects to promote sustainable and efficient urban growth. They analyze data, consult with stakeholders, and ensure that development aligns with local and regional policies. Their work helps improve infrastructure, transportation, housing, and environmental sustainability while balancing the needs of residents, businesses, and government agencies.

What are common challenges an urban planner in government may face in their daily work?

Urban Planners working in government often navigate the complexities of balancing community needs, regulatory requirements, and political considerations when creating development plans or policies. They regularly engage with a variety of stakeholders, including residents, developers, and elected officials, which can involve managing conflicting interests and facilitating consensus. Planners must also stay current with evolving laws, environmental concerns, and urban growth trends, all while adhering to tight project deadlines. Successfully addressing these challenges requires adaptability and a strong commitment to public service, making the role both dynamic and rewarding.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an urban planner in government?

To thrive as an Urban Planner in government, you need a solid background in urban design, land use planning, and public policy, often supported by a degree in urban planning or a related field. Proficiency with Geographic Information Systems (GIS), zoning regulations, and planning software like AutoCAD or ArcGIS is commonly required, and certification through the American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) can be advantageous. Excellent communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills help you engage diverse stakeholders and navigate complex community needs. These competencies are crucial for developing and implementing plans that promote sustainable, well-organized urban growth and improve quality of life.

More about Urban Planner Government jobs
What cities are hiring for Urban Planner Government jobs? Cities with the most Urban Planner Government job openings:
What states have the most Urban Planner Government jobs? States with the most job openings for Urban Planner Government jobs include:
Urban Planner Government jobs near you
Infographic showing various Urban Planner Government job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $75,033 per year, or $36.1 per hour.

Director (Director of Planning and Urban Design)

Unified Government of Wyandotte County and Kansas City

Kansas City, KS • On-site

$38.50 - $59.88/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

As a condition of employment all employees must pass a post offer criminal history background check, physical examination and drug screen. All employees must also submit proof of identity and employment eligibility.
Director of Planning and Urban Design
Position Summary
The Director of Planning and Urban Development provides executive leadership and strategic direction for the planning, zoning, development review, and urban revitalization activities of the Unified Government of Wyandotte County and Kansas City, Kansas. This position is responsible for guiding long-range planning initiatives, managing development and land use policies, supporting economic development objectives, and ensuring equitable, sustainable growth across the community.
The Director works closely with the Mayor/CEO, County Administrator, Planning Commission, City Council, community stakeholders, and regional partners to shape policies that enhance quality of life, support investment, and promote responsible land use. Valid Kansas Driver's License is required.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership
  • Lead the Department of Planning and Urban Development in developing and implementing long-range planning strategies and policies.
  • Oversee updates to the Comprehensive Plan, area plans, and land use policies.
  • Align planning initiatives with economic development, housing, transportation, and sustainability goals.
  • Advise executive leadership and elected officials on planning policy, land use issues, and development trends.
Development and Land Use Management
  • Direct zoning administration, subdivision review, site plan review, and permitting coordination.
  • Ensure development proposals comply with zoning codes, design standards, and comprehensive planning policies.
  • Oversee development review processes to ensure efficiency, transparency, and consistency.
Urban Revitalization and Community Development
  • Lead redevelopment and revitalization initiatives in targeted corridors and neighborhoods.
  • Coordinate planning activities that support housing affordability, mixed-use development, and neighborhood stabilization.
  • Collaborate with public, nonprofit, and private sector partners to advance strategic projects.
Policy Development
  • Develop and recommend zoning amendments, land use regulations, and development policies.
  • Prepare and present reports, policy recommendations, and planning initiatives to the Planning Commission, City Council, and other governing bodies.
  • Ensure planning policies reflect best practices in sustainability, equity, resilience, and community engagement.
Departmental Management
  • Manage departmental staff, budget, and operational priorities.
  • Establish performance standards and ensure high-quality service delivery.
  • Promote professional development and continuous improvement within the department.
Community Engagement
  • Foster transparent and inclusive engagement with residents, developers, businesses, and neighborhood organizations.
  • Lead public meetings, workshops, and planning processes that incorporate community input.
  • Serve as a public-facing representative of the department and the Unified Government.

Qualifications
Education
  • Bachelor's Degree in Urban Planning, City and Regional Planning, Public Administration, Architecture, or a related field. Master's Degree preferred.
Experience
  • 7 years of progressively responsible administrative experience in a public agency. 8-10 years of progressively responsible experience in urban planning, community development, or land use policy.
  • At least 5 years in a senior leadership or management role.
  • Experience in municipal or county government preferred.

Certifications
  • Certification from the American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) preferred.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
  • Expertise in comprehensive planning, zoning, land use law, and development review.
  • Strong understanding of urban redevelopment, housing policy, and economic development strategies.
  • Ability to build consensus among elected officials, community members, and developers.
  • Excellent leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
  • Familiarity with GIS, planning analytics, and data-informed policy development.

Working Relationships
This position works closely with:
  • Mayor/CEO and County Administration
  • Planning Commission and Board of Commissioners
  • Economic Development Department
  • Public Works and Transportation agencies
  • Neighborhood organizations and community stakeholders
  • Regional planning and development partners

Compensation and Benefits
Salary is commensurate with experience and consistent with executive-level municipal positions. The Unified Government offers a comprehensive benefits package including health insurance, retirement plans, paid leave, and professional development opportunities.
Salary Range:
$38.50 - $59.88/hr.
The Unified Government of Wyandotte County/Kansas City, Kansas is an Equal Opportunity Employer and values an inclusive workforce.
If you need to reach a member of the Human Resources staff, please call (913) 573-5660 or email jobs@wycokck.org.
Company: Unified Government of Wyandotte County/Kansas City, KS

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