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Urban Planner Jobs in Decatur, GA (NOW HIRING)

Position Overview The Planner/GIS Analyst supports transportation, community planning, and urban design projects through GIS analysis, mapping, data visualization, research, and technical ...

Position Overview The Planner/GIS Analyst supports transportation, community planning, and urban design projects through GIS analysis, mapping, data visualization, research, and technical ...

Networks - Initiates and maintains extensive contacts with transportation planning, engineering, urban design and/or planning leaders and other discipline/office leaders (internal/external)

Coordinates with project manager, project designer and other disciplines on multiple large scale and complex transportation planning, urban design, or landscape architectural projects to ensure that ...

Planner II

Chamblee, GA · On-site

$85K/yr

This position serves as an area specialist in housing, urban design, transportation, sustainability, environment, and real estate. This position also conducts long range planning, research & analysis ...

This position serves as an area specialist in housing, urban design, transportation, sustainability, environment, and real estate. This position also conducts long range planning, research & analysis ...

Assists in the development of conceptual planning alternatives for urban and transportation planning projects * Performs tasks related to the preparation and production of plans, studies, reports ...

Assists in the development of conceptual planning alternatives for urban and transportation planning projects * Performs tasks related to the preparation and production of plans, studies, reports ...

Planner I/II

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$69K - $85K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Planning, Urban Planning, Public Administration, Geography, or a related field. * One (1) to three (3) years of professional planning experience, internship experience, or an ...

Senior Planner

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$45K/yr

... urban planning issues. Please note: Failure to fully complete both the Work Experience and Education sections may result in your application being denied. To be considered for employment, all ...

... urban planning issues. Please note: Failure to fully complete both the Work Experience and Education sections may result in your application being denied. To be considered for employment, all ...

SENIOR PLANNER

Norcross, GA · On-site

$63K - $101K/yr

Bachelor's degree in urban planning, Architecture, Construction Management, Political Science, or a related field from an accredited college or university * Five to ten years of experience in a ...

Master's degree in urban planning, public policy, economics, environmental science, transportation/civil engineering, or related subjects, or equivalent professional experience. * 10+ years of ...

Bachelor's degree in urban planning, Architecture, Construction Management, Political Science, or a related field from an accredited college or university Five to ten years of experience in a ...

Direct urban design strategies--land use, density, mobility, streetscapes, open space networks, and blue/green infrastructure. * Build implementable plans: pro formas at a planning level, phasing ...

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Urban Planner information

See Decatur, GA salary details

$43K

$73.3K

$116.2K

How much do urban planner jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for urban planner in Decatur, GA is $73,258.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,600.00 and $82,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an urban planner do?

Urban planners identify community needs and make plans to develop, expand, or revitalize various communities or areas in their cities. Urban planners may assess plans for proposed development, like new schools, to ensure the investment will benefit the community by meeting the needs of a changing population. As cities grow and change, planners help communities manage shifting economic, social, and environmental needs. Some urban planners work large-scale plans, while some work in focused areas on specific issues. Good urban planners have at heart what is the best use of a community’s land and resources overall—residentially, commercially, and recreationally.

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

To thrive as an Urban Planner, you need a strong background in urban design, land use planning, and environmental policy, typically supported by a degree in urban planning or a related field. Familiarity with GIS software, zoning regulations, and public engagement platforms is important, and certification from the American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) can be advantageous. Excellent communication, negotiation, and analytical thinking are essential soft skills for collaborating with stakeholders and addressing community needs. These competencies ensure effective, sustainable, and inclusive planning that enhances urban environments and meets regulatory and community goals.

What are some common challenges urban planners face when balancing community needs with regulatory requirements?

Urban planners often navigate the complex task of balancing the diverse needs of communities—such as affordable housing, green spaces, and transportation access—with local, state, and federal regulations. This can involve negotiating with developers, addressing resident concerns, and ensuring compliance with zoning laws and environmental policies. Effective collaboration with stakeholders and strong communication skills are essential to finding practical solutions that meet both legal requirements and community goals. Planners may also need to adapt quickly to changing priorities or unexpected obstacles, making flexibility a valuable asset in this role.

What is the difference between Urban Planner vs City Planner?

AspectUrban PlannerCity Planner
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Urban Planning, Geography, or related fieldSimilar credentials, often with additional local government experience
Work EnvironmentPublic agencies, consulting firms, non-profitsMunicipal government departments, urban development agencies
Industry UsageBroadly used across urban development projectsPrimarily within city government and local planning offices
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles in urban developmentFocus on local government planning roles

Urban Planners and City Planners often share similar educational backgrounds and work environments, focusing on developing and implementing urban development projects. However, Urban Planners typically work across various organizations and broader projects, while City Planners are usually employed within municipal governments focusing on local policies and zoning. Both roles are essential in shaping urban spaces, with their differences mainly in scope and employment setting.

Are urban planners in high demand?

Urban planners are in growing demand due to increasing urbanization and the need for sustainable development. Employment opportunities are expected to expand as cities focus on infrastructure, transportation, and environmental planning, often requiring knowledge of GIS tools and planning regulations.

Is urban planner a good career?

Urban planners develop plans and programs for land use and community development, often working for government agencies or private firms. The career offers opportunities for impact, requires strong analytical and communication skills, and typically requires a relevant degree and certification. Job prospects depend on regional growth and infrastructure needs.

What jobs can you do with urban planning?

Urban planners can work in government agencies, private consulting firms, or non-profit organizations, focusing on land use, transportation, and community development. They often use GIS software and require knowledge of zoning laws and environmental regulations. Career options include transportation planner, land use analyst, city planner, and environmental planner.

What are the most commonly searched types of Urban Planner jobs in Decatur, GA?

The most popular types of Urban Planner jobs in Decatur, GA are:

What are popular job titles related to Urban Planner jobs in Decatur, GA?

For Urban Planner jobs in Decatur, GA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Urban Planner jobs in Decatur, GA look for?

The top searched job categories for Urban Planner jobs in Decatur, GA are:

What cities near Decatur, GA are hiring for Urban Planner jobs?

Cities near Decatur, GA with the most Urban Planner job openings:

Infographic showing various Urban Planner job openings in Decatur, GA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $73,258 per year, or $35.2 per hour.

Urban Planner (GIS Focus)

pondco

Atlanta, GA • Hybrid

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago


Job description

Position Overview

The Planner/GIS Analyst supports transportation, community planning, and urban design projects through GIS analysis, mapping, data visualization, research, and technical documentation. The role transforms complex data into clear, compelling planning products that support decision-making and communicate findings to clients, stakeholders, and the public.

The ideal candidate has 3–5 years of professional experience, strong GIS and analytical skills, excellent written and verbal communication abilities, and the ability to collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary teams that include planners, engineers, landscape architects, economists, architects, and environmental professionals. This position offers opportunities to expand technical expertise while growing into increased project management responsibilities.

Key Responsibilities:

GIS and Spatial Analysis

  • Develop, manage, and analyze GIS datasets for transportation, land use, environmental, and community planning projects.
  • Create professional maps, dashboards, story maps, exhibits, and web-based applications using ArcGIS Pro, ArcGIS Online, and related ESRI tools.
  • Conduct spatial analyses related to accessibility, connectivity, demographics, safety, equity, land suitability, and infrastructure.
  • Integrate data from public agencies, Census sources, local governments, and field collection.
  • Maintain accurate, organized, and well-documented geodatabases.

Planning and Technical Support

  • Support comprehensive plans, transportation studies, corridor studies, small area plans, transit plans, active transportation initiatives, zoning updates, development regulations, and other community planning projects.
  • Conduct demographic, socioeconomic, land use, transportation, environmental, and market analyses.
  • Prepare technical memoranda, reports, recommendations, presentations, and public-facing materials.
  • Research planning policies, best practices, and funding opportunities.

Community Engagement and Project Support

  • Support public meetings, workshops, stakeholder interviews, surveys, and other engagement activities.
  • Prepare maps, graphics, displays, and presentation materials.
  • Present technical information clearly through maps, graphics, reports, and presentations for clients, stakeholders, and the public.
  • Document community input and incorporate findings into planning recommendations.
  • Assist with project coordination, schedules, task tracking, fieldwork, deliverables, and proposals.
  • Collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary teams that include planners, engineers, landscape architects, architects, economists, environmental scientists, and other technical professionals.

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in Urban Planning, Geography, GIS, Transportation Planning, Environmental Planning, or a related field.
  • 3–5 years of relevant professional experience.
  • Proficiency with ArcGIS Pro, ArcGIS Online, and ESRI geospatial tools, with demonstrated experience in spatial analysis and map production.
  • Demonstrated experience conducting spatial analysis and producing professional maps and graphics.
  • Experience with Adobe Creative Suite and data visualization tools such as Power BI, Tableau, or ArcGIS Dashboards.
  • Strong written, verbal, and visual communication skills, with the ability to communicate technical information to both technical and non-technical audiences.
  • Experience supporting transportation, transit, multimodal, active transportation, or community planning projects.
  • Strong analytical, organizational, writing, and communication skills.
  • Progress toward AICP or GISP certification preferred.

Core Competencies

  • GIS and geospatial analysis
  • Data visualization and graphic communication
  • Technical research and analysis
  • Collaboration and project coordination
  • Creativity and problem-solving
  • Accuracy and attention to detail
  • Written, Verbal & Presentation Communication
  • Multidisciplinary Collaboration

Work Environment

  • Ability to manage multiple assignments in a deadline-driven consulting environment.
  • Willingness to travel periodically for fieldwork, client meetings, and public engagement.
  • Hybrid or in-office work environment based on organizational needs.

Position Impact

The Planner/GIS Analyst strengthens transportation and community planning projects by transforming complex data into actionable insights, compelling visualizations, and implementable recommendations. Through technical analysis, GIS expertise, effective communication, and collaboration across multidisciplinary teams, this role supports informed decision-making while building expertise in transportation planning, community planning, and geospatial analysis.