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Urban Planning Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Urban Planner (Designer)

Washington, DC · On-site

$71K - $100K/yr

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 ...

Associate Planner

Des Plaines, IL · On-site

$73K - $102K/yr

Knowledge of urban and suburban development and planning principles, practices, and techniques; * Knowledge of subdivision and professional planning and zoning procedures; * Knowledge of landscape ...

Urban Planner (Designer)

Washington, DC · On-site

$71K - $100K/yr

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 ...

Showing results 21-40

Urban Planning information

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$44K

$75K

$119K

How much do urban planning jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for urban planning 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 is urban planning?

Urban planning is the process of designing and organizing the physical, social, and economic development of cities and towns. Urban planners work to create sustainable, functional, and attractive environments by managing land use, transportation systems, public spaces, and infrastructure. Their work involves balancing the needs of communities, businesses, and the environment, often through collaboration with government officials, architects, and the public. Effective urban planning helps communities grow and thrive while addressing challenges like housing, traffic congestion, and environmental sustainability.

What jobs can you do with urban planning?

Urban planning graduates can pursue careers as urban planners, transportation planners, environmental planners, zoning officials, and community development specialists. These roles involve designing and managing land use, infrastructure, and public spaces, often requiring skills in GIS software, policy analysis, and stakeholder engagement.

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

To thrive as an Urban Planner, you need a strong background in urban design, land use planning, and environmental policy, often supported by a degree in urban planning or a related field. Experience with GIS software, zoning codes, and public engagement platforms is typically required. Excellent communication, negotiation, and problem-solving skills set outstanding planners apart by enabling effective collaboration with stakeholders and the public. These skills ensure the development of sustainable, functional, and equitable urban environments that meet community needs.

How does an urban planner typically collaborate with other professionals and stakeholders during a project?

Urban planners work closely with a range of professionals such as civil engineers, architects, public officials, and community members to develop and implement plans for land use and urban growth. Collaboration often involves attending meetings, conducting public consultations, and integrating feedback from various stakeholders to ensure projects meet regulatory requirements and community needs. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, as urban planners must balance diverse interests while creating sustainable and functional urban environments.

Is urban planning a good career choice?

Urban planning is a viable career that involves designing and developing land use plans to create sustainable communities. It requires skills in analysis, communication, and knowledge of zoning laws, often supported by a degree in urban planning or related fields. Job prospects can vary based on location and demand for infrastructure development.

Are urban planners in high demand?

Urban planners are in steady demand due to ongoing urban development, infrastructure projects, and efforts to improve city sustainability. Employment opportunities are expected to grow at a rate faster than the average for all occupations, with skills in GIS software and environmental planning being valuable. Job prospects are generally favorable in regions focusing on smart growth and sustainable development.

What is the difference between Urban Planning vs City Planning?

AspectUrban PlanningCity Planning
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Urban Planning, Geography, or related fieldsBachelor's or Master's in Urban Planning, Civil Engineering, or related fields
Work EnvironmentPublic agencies, consulting firms, non-profitsMunicipal government, public agencies, private firms
Industry UsageUsed broadly for regional and community developmentOften focused on specific city or municipal projects

Urban Planning and City Planning are closely related fields, with overlapping credentials and work environments. Urban Planning generally covers broader regional or community development, while City Planning tends to focus on specific city-level projects. Both roles aim to improve urban spaces but differ in scope and scale.

What is a career in urban planning?

A career in urban planning involves developing plans and programs for land use, transportation, and community development to create sustainable and functional urban environments. Urban planners analyze data, collaborate with stakeholders, and use tools like GIS software to design and implement policies that shape cities and towns. The role often requires a degree in urban planning, geography, or related fields, and may involve working for government agencies, private firms, or non-profit organizations.

What cities are hiring for Urban Planning jobs?

Cities with the most Urban Planning job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Urban Planning jobs?

The most popular types of Urban Planning jobs are:

What states have the most Urban Planning jobs?

States with the most job openings for Urban Planning jobs include:

Infographic showing various Urban Planning job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $75,033 per year, or $36.1 per hour.

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

Urban/Community Planner with Project Management ExperienceAbout Us

Altair Consulting Group provides planning and real estate advisory services to a variety of municipal and government agencies, institutions and higher education, private sector developers, community, and economic development organizations, non-for profits, Community Development Finance Institutions, and Philanthropic Institutions. Services include: 

·       Community, Municipal, Corridor, and Neighborhood Planning services 

·       Strategic Governance for Community and Downtown Development Corporations and Municipal Authorities 

·       Assembly of Complex Capital Stacks and Identification of Financing Vehicles for Redevelopment and Community and Economic Development Initiatives 

·       Project Administration for Grant and Financing Compliance and Redevelopment Project Management 

The Opportunity

We are seeking an experienced Urban/Community Planner with strong project management skills to join our growing team. In this role, you will lead planning projects, manage staff, and collaborate with stakeholders to develop and implement comprehensive planning strategies that drive community and economic development projects.

Key Responsibilities
  • Lead and manage complex urban planning and community development projects from inception to completion
  • Supervise, mentor, and develop planning staff while fostering a collaborative team environment
  • Engage with community stakeholders, government officials, and private developers to build consensus around planning initiatives
  • Develop and present planning recommendations, reports, and proposals to clients and stakeholders
  • Analyze demographic, economic, and land use data to inform planning strategies
  • Prepare and review planning documents, including comprehensive plans, zoning regulations, and economic development strategies
  • Ensure projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to client specifications
  • Stay current on urban planning trends, best practices, and regulatory requirements
Qualifications
  • Required:

    • Bachelor's degree in Urban Planning, Community Development, Public Administration, or related field
    • 5+ years of progressive experience in urban/community planning with demonstrated project management expertise
    • Experience supervising and developing staff
    • Strong understanding of land use planning, zoning regulations, and development processes
    • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
    • Proven ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously
    • Proficiency with GIS and planning-related software
  • Preferred:

    • AICP certification
    • Master's degree in Business Administration (MBA), Public Administration (MPA), Urban Planning, or related field
    • Experience in real estate development or economic development
    • Demonstrated success in securing funding for community projects
    • Experience working with both public and private sector clients
What We Offer
  • Competitive salary commensurate with experience
  • Comprehensive benefits package including health insurance and retirement plans
  • Professional development opportunities and support for continuing education
  • Collaborative, innovative work environment with opportunities for advancement
  • Meaningful work that directly impacts communities and shapes their future

Altair is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity in the workplace.

Employment Type: FULL_TIME