Entry-Level Urban Planner: Shape Growth & Zoning

Town of La Plata; La Plata (MD); On-site; USD 39,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

The Town of La Plata seeks an enthusiastic, detail-oriented Planner I to join our Planning Department. This entry-level professional role supports development review, planning, zoning enforcement, and public-facing services under supervision.

Starting at $28.65–$32.95 per hour, based on experience, the position offers opportunities to work on site, review site plans and variances, assist with long-range planning, and contribute to the Comprehensive Plan while collaborating with staff and boards.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in architecture, civil engineering, geography, urban planning, environmental science, or a related field.
• One year of planning experience in long-range or neighborhood planning, development review, transportation planning, urban design, or similar work.

Responsibilities

• Review and process site plans, plats, variances, special exceptions, and other development applications.
• Evaluate forest conservation plans, NRI/FSD submissions, and related materials.
• Conduct research to identify trends and planning issues.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable federal, state, county, and local development regulations.
• Prepare organized, well-written technical reports and recommendations.
• Present staff analyses at Planning Commission, Board of Appeals, and Design Review Board meetings.
• Support Town Council and other boards on zoning, long-range planning, and urban design matters.
• Provide zoning and permitting guidance to residents, applicants, and partner agencies.
• Maintain development records and assist with updates to land-use maps, zoning ordinances, and the Comprehensive Plan.
• Perform field inspections to verify compliance with approved plans.

Education

Bachelor’s degree in architecture, civil engineering, geography, urban planning, environmental science, or related field

Job description

The Town of La Plata seeks an enthusiastic, detail-oriented Planner I to join our Planning Department. This entry-level professional role supports development review, planning, zoning enforcement, and public-facing services under supervision.

Starting at $28.65–$32.95 per hour, based on experience, the position offers opportunities to work on site, review site plans and variances, assist with long-range planning, and contribute to the Comprehensive Plan while collaborating with staff and boards.