September 27, 2025
Delve into the fundamental qualifications, critical tasks, primary responsibilities, and essential skills that should be highlighted in a detailed City Planner job description.
What does a City Planner do?
A city planner, also known as an urban planner, helps improve cities by planning how the land within city limits should be used. They look at how the city is growing and work with communities to make sure they have the right resources for their needs. City planners also make sure that urban development is community-oriented and sustainable.
Job Description
We are seeking a forward-thinking city planner to create plans for the best use of land and resources in cities. The city planner is responsible for designing efficient and long-lasting urban infrastructure.
To be successful as a city planner, you must be able to study a city's population and how the land is currently being used by conducting surveys, doing field research, and using other methods.
Job Duties and Responsibilities
- Plan the design and construction of new urban infrastructure.
- Help manage a city's current infrastructure and resources.
- Design and adapt city plans for future growth and development.
- Keep communities informed about city planning projects.
- Suggest the best locations for different urban infrastructure, such as schools and roads.
- Assist in creating laws related to land use and development.
- Protect the environment during the planning and development process.
- Create zoning regulations for private properties in urban areas.
- Use computer software to assist with planning, including mapping land areas and predicting population growth.
- Prepare reports on the location and characteristics of urban infrastructure and population factors.
- Hold public meetings with government officials, developers, lawyers, interest groups, and the general public to discuss urban development issues.
Requirements and Qualifications
- Master's degree in urban or regional planning, environmental planning, urban design, or a related field (preferred)
- Previous experience as a city planner
- Certification with The American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) (preferred)
- Membership with the American Planning Association (APA) (preferred)
- Strong project management skills
- Excellent analytical skills
- Effective communication and interpersonal skills
- Proficient in Adobe Creative Suite programs (such as Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign)
- Familiar with web-based mapping platforms (such as CartoDB and Mapbox)
- Ability to create high-quality graphics, diagrams, maps, sketches, and renderings
- Thorough understanding of new urbanism, transit-oriented development, and complete street design principles
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