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Urban Planner Jobs in Springfield, VA (NOW HIRING)

Urban Planner (Designer)

Washington, DC · On-site

$71K - $100K/yr

Your Opportunity Stantec's DC office is seeking a motivated Campus / Urban Planner to join our Planning team. This role will support planning efforts for college and university campuses, with ...

Urban Planner (Designer)

Washington, DC · On-site

$71K - $100K/yr

Your Opportunity Stantec's DC office is seeking a motivated Campus / Urban Planner to join our Planning team. This role will support planning efforts for college and university campuses, with ...

MDLE is seeking an enthusiastic, motivated, technology-focused Urban / Military Planner for our federal team in Charlottesville, Virginia. The Charlottesville office is comprised of architects and ...

Environmental Planner

Washington, DC · On-site

$110K - $125K/yr

Bachelor's degree from an accredited university in the field of Transportation Planning, Urban Planning, Environmental Planning, Environmental Policy, or a related degree * 7+ years of progressively ...

Environmental Planner

Washington, DC · On-site

$110K - $125K/yr

Bachelor's degree from an accredited university in the field of Transportation Planning, Urban Planning, Environmental Planning, Environmental Policy, or a related degree * 7+ years of progressively ...

Environmental Planner

Washington, DC · On-site

$110K - $125K/yr

Bachelor's degree from an accredited university in the field of Transportation Planning, Urban Planning, Environmental Planning, Environmental Policy, or a related degree * 7+ years of progressively ...

Develops conceptual planning alternatives for urban and transportation planning projects. * Leads tasks under general direction related to the preparation and production of technical plans, studies ...

Environmental Planner

Reston, VA · On-site

$115K - $125K/yr

Bachelor's degree from an accredited university in the field of Transportation Planning, Urban Planning, Environmental Planning, Environmental Policy, or a related degree * 7+ years of progressively ...

Environmental Planner

Rockville, MD · On-site

$110K - $125K/yr

Bachelor's degree from an accredited university in the field of Transportation Planning, Urban Planning, Environmental Planning, Environmental Policy, or a related degree * 7+ years of progressively ...

Environmental Planner

Reston, VA · On-site

$115K - $125K/yr

Bachelor's degree from an accredited university in the field of Transportation Planning, Urban Planning, Environmental Planning, Environmental Policy, or a related degree * 7+ years of progressively ...

Environmental Planner

Rockville, MD · On-site

$110K - $125K/yr

Bachelor's degree from an accredited university in the field of Transportation Planning, Urban Planning, Environmental Planning, Environmental Policy, or a related degree * 7+ years of progressively ...

Environmental Planner

Reston, VA · On-site

$115K - $125K/yr

Bachelor's degree from an accredited university in the field of Transportation Planning, Urban Planning, Environmental Planning, Environmental Policy, or a related degree * 7+ years of progressively ...

Environmental Planner

Rockville, MD · On-site

$110K - $125K/yr

Bachelor's degree from an accredited university in the field of Transportation Planning, Urban Planning, Environmental Planning, Environmental Policy, or a related degree * 7+ years of progressively ...

Environmental Planner

Reston, VA · On-site

$115K - $125K/yr

Bachelor's degree from an accredited university in the field of Transportation Planning, Urban Planning, Environmental Planning, Environmental Policy, or a related degree * 7+ years of progressively ...

Principal Planner

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$82K - $144K/yr

Essential Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Thorough knowledge of urban planning, urban design, zoning administration, and project management; ability to communicate clearly and effectively both ...

Principal Planner

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$82K - $144K/yr

The Opportunity This Principal Planner will be leading the Public Facilities team, as well as general urban planning activities. Major responsibilities include: Manage the workflow of the assigned ...

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Showing results 1-20

Urban Planner information

See Springfield, VA salary details

$46K

$78.4K

$124.3K

How much do urban planner jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for urban planner in Springfield, VA is $78,374.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $61,600.00 and $88,300.00 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 Springfield, VA?

The most popular types of Urban Planner jobs in Springfield, VA are:

What are popular job titles related to Urban Planner jobs in Springfield, VA?

For Urban Planner jobs in Springfield, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Urban Planner jobs in Springfield, VA look for?

The top searched job categories for Urban Planner jobs in Springfield, VA are:

What cities near Springfield, VA are hiring for Urban Planner jobs?

Cities near Springfield, VA with the most Urban Planner job openings:

Infographic showing various Urban Planner job openings in Springfield, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $78,374 per year, or $37.7 per hour.

Urban Planner (Designer)

Stantec

Washington, DC • On-site

$71K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago


Stantec rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 84 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

123rd of 450 rated engineering


Job description


Your Opportunity
Stantec's DC office is seeking a motivated Campus / Urban Planner to join our Planning team. This role will support planning efforts for college and university campuses, with opportunities to contribute to related urban and community planning projects. The ideal candidate will have an educational background in both planning and design (architecture, landscape architecture, or urban design). Data analytics experience is preferred but not required.
Stantec's Campus Planning practice is a national leader in higher education planning, delivering projects across a wide range of types and scales, including campus master plans; research, innovation, and medical district plans; and housing and student life studies. The firm also maintains a nationally recognized space analytics practice, providing space utilization and programming studies at the campus and building scales.
Key Responsibilities
  • Support planning projects for colleges and universities, including campus master plans, district plans and site studies, as well as specialized planning studies.
  • Assist with select urban and community planning projects, particularly those that interface with campus environments.
  • Conduct research related to campus and urban planning topics.
  • Provide technical support to planning projects, including GIS mapping, data collection and analysis, report writing, and preparation of planning deliverables such as plans, maps, diagrams, and graphics.
  • Prepare graphic and written materials, including presentations, reports, and visual communication.
  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, including planners, architects, landscape architects, urban designers, engineers, and other planning and design professionals.
  • Coordinate with campus clients, public agencies, consultants, and other project stakeholders.
  • Facilitate campus and community engagement activities, such as workshops, charrettes, and stakeholder meetings.
  • Support proposal development and other business development efforts.

Qualifications
Your Capabilities and Credentials
  • Professional planning experience ideally in a higher education or institutional context.
  • Demonstrated ability to work effectively in collaborative, multidisciplinary teams on planning or design projects.
  • Strong work ethic with a high level of organization and attention to detail.
  • Proficiency in standard planning and design software tools, including Microsoft Office, InDesign, Adobe Acrobat, and Bluebeam. Additional proficiency in SketchUp, Rhino, Photoshop, Illustrator, and AutoCAD, and working ability with AI tools is preferred.
  • Working knowledge of industry-standard GIS software, such as Esri's ArcGIS.
  • Strong written and verbal communications skills, including ability to prepare clear, concise planning reports and presentations to campus and public audiences.
  • Strong graphic skills and ability to assist in the preparation of plan diagrams and graphics, including two- and three-dimensional representations at the campus, district and building scales.
  • Quantitative and data-analytic skills are preferred.

Education and Experience
  • Bachelor's degree or equivalent in Urban Planning, Urban Design, Architecture, Landscape Architecture, or a related field, and a Master's degree in a related discipline.
  • Professional certification / licensure or ability to obtain with one or more of the following: AICP, NOMA, AIA, LEED, LEED-ND, Sites AP, or other pertinent credentials.

Typical office environment working with computers and remaining sedentary for long periods of time. Field work may include exposure to the elements including inclement weather.
This description is not a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that may be required of the employee and other duties, responsibilities and activities may be assigned or may be changed at any time with or without notice.
About Stantec
Stantec is a global leader in sustainable engineering, architecture, and environmental consulting. The diverse perspectives of our partners and interested parties drive us to think beyond what's previously been done on critical issues like climate change, digital transformation, and future-proofing our cities and infrastructure. We innovate at the intersection of community, creativity, and client relationships to advance communities everywhere, so that together we can redefine what's possible.

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