Residential Planner

This is a great career for people who are looking for a way to help local communities while enjoying a nice salary. A residential planner works with state, county, and city governments to help the local communities develop an economical plan and vision for future growth. These plans include long term and short term goals, and center around economic and social issues.

This career path is one where a Master’s Degree is required. Master’s in Urban Planning offers the best course of study. In addition to the degree, one will also need to find an entry level position in order to gain relevant experience for this job. Most companies will ask for at least three years of experience in addition to the Master’s Degree.

The aspiring residential planner needs to have great analytical skills along with the ability to effectively research community trends. It is also good if the person has experience or education in conservation.

Local governments and officials are always trying to figure out what to do with land and vacant lots within a community. Because of this, the need for residential planners is growing. The median annual salary for residential planners is $56,600 according to 2006 figures.