Planning, like all other careers has a ladder that professionals must climb to reach the pinnacle of their profession. There are a number of requirements and skills that are needed before one can advance. The APA has the standard ladder here with recommended job descriptions. What we have below is a plain language assessment of each public-sector planning class to help young and emerging professionals navigate their futures.
Planning Technician
The Planning Tech class is a very important frontline planning position. Planning Techs are utilized differently by organization. For smaller departments, they are the front counter staff. For larger departments, they're entry-level positions. Typically, a planning professional will start as a Planning Tech if they don't have a traditional planning background. From there they'll work their way up the ladder. Though it isn't typical, I know of a Planning Tech becoming an Assistant City Manager!
Skills Needed: - computer software - good writing - people skills - active listening Experience Needed: - Associates degree in a related field - experience in an office environment Ready for next level when: - obtained a more specialized degree - 3 to 4 years of quality experience doing planner work Planner
The Planner class (Planner I/II, Associate/Assistant Planner) is the entry-level position for new planning professionals. They are usually graduates of planning schools or sometimes related programs such as public administration, architecture, geography, etc. The Planner will work on less complex projects and will be the first point of contact for the public and customers. Planners typically have a shelf-life of 2-3 years before they move on to advance elsewhere if opportunities for advancement aren't available. Planners are given the opportunity to learn from their mistakes, though they should have good guidance from their supervisors.
Skills Needed: - same as Planning Technician PLUS - proficiency in GIS, photoshop, SketchUp - knowledge of planning principles and best practices Experience Needed: - Bachelors degree in a related field - Planning-related internship Ready for next level when: - 2-3 years experience obtained an accreditation (AICP, CNU-A) - earned an advanced degree in planning or public administration - high-quality work as a project manager - experience working on a large project Senior Planner
The Senior Planner class (Planner III) is the first supervisory experience for the planning professional. Senior Planners are responsible for supervising the work of junior planners but also performing quality work on complex and advanced projects. The planning professional will sometimes start at Senior Planner if they have an advanced degree in planning. Senior Planners are still learning how to lead and manage planners, and will need to learn quickly from any miscues in order to be successful.
Skills Needed: - same as Planner PLUS - advanced knowledge in planning practices - fundamental understanding of planning case law - management and leadership training Experience Needed: - Bachelors degree in a related field with 3-5 years experience or a Masters with 2-3 years experience - AICP or other specialized accreditation Ready for next level when: - 5 years planning experience, 2 years supervisory - Experience leading a successful planning team Click to view more |
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