Develop comprehensive plans and programs for use of land and physical facilities of jurisdictions, such as towns, cities, counties, and metropolitan areas.
SOC: 19-3051.00
Common Job Titles
Community Development Planner
Planner
Planning Consultant
Planning Technician
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
KnowledgeFormulate comprehensive land use plans and zoning strategies for jurisdictions including towns, cities, counties, and metropolitan areas, integrating regulatory requirements and community objectives.
Advanced
KnowledgeDesign sustainable growth and development strategies incorporating environmental impact assessments, transportation networks, and infrastructure capacity constraints.
Advanced
KnowledgeSynthesize multidisciplinary research findings and regulatory frameworks to develop evidence-based policy recommendations for elected officials and planning boards.
Advanced
KnowledgeEvaluate land use proposals and development applications for compliance with zoning regulations using GIS software and spatial analysis tools, determining alignment with municipal planning standards.
Proficient
KnowledgeAnalyze demographic, geographic, and transportation data using ESRI ArcGIS and spatial decision support systems to inform urban development strategies.
Proficient
MindsetReconcile conflicting stakeholder interests and community concerns during public hearings and planning commission meetings, balancing development needs with quality of life considerations.
Proficient
MindsetAdvocate for equitable land use policies and inclusive community development when presenting recommendations to government officials, developers, and community organizations.
Proficient
KnowledgeAssess environmental, economic, and social impacts of proposed development projects independently, applying systems analysis and complex problem-solving methodologies.
Proficient
Hands-onOperate CAD software and GIS mapping tools including Autodesk AutoCAD and ArcGIS software to create detailed land use maps and planning documents.
Proficient
MindsetEngage diverse community members and stakeholder groups through public forums and outreach initiatives to gather input on planning priorities and development concerns.
Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Urban and Regional Planners (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
43,040
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $55,590. 25th percentile: U.S. $66,210. 50th percentile: U.S. $83,720. 75th percentile: U.S. $104,450. 90th percentile: U.S. $128,550. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$55,590
10% of workers earn the following or more
$128,550
Workers on average earn
$89,730
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
Law and Government4.6/5
English Language4.4/5
Geography4.2/5
Transportation4.0/5
Communications and Media3.6/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation