Urban and regional planners are in high demand—but if you’re struggling to fill roles, you’re not alone. From public agencies to private firms, employers across the board are finding it tougher to recruit skilled planning professionals.
So, where did all the planners go? And more importantly—how can you find and hire them?
1. 📉 A Shrinking Talent Pool
Several factors have contributed to the current shortage:
- Retirements: Many experienced planners have left the workforce.
- Remote Flexibility: Candidates have more choices and are less tied to geography.
- Sector Competition: Private, nonprofit, and international firms are all competing for the same talent.
The result? Qualified planners are receiving multiple offers—fast.
2. ⏱️ Time-to-Hire Is Critical
The days of slow recruitment cycles are over. Top candidates often accept an offer within 2–3 weeks of starting their job search.
Tip: Streamline your process.
- Keep your job post clear and targeted
- Respond to applicants within a few days
- Be ready to interview within a week
The faster you move, the more likely you are to land your ideal hire.
3. 💼 Make the Opportunity Meaningful
Today’s planners want more than just a salary. They want to know:
- What kinds of projects will they work on?
- Does the organization support work-life balance?
- Is the work aligned with their values?
Highlight hybrid options, mission-driven goals, DEI efforts, and professional growth opportunities. These factors can tip the scale in your favor.
4. 🎯 Use Planning-Specific Channels
Posting on general job sites isn’t enough. Planners aren’t always searching there. Posting on a specialized planning job board is far more effective than general job sites because it targets exactly the professionals you're looking for—urban planners, transportation experts, environmental consultants, and other niche talent. Unlike broad platforms where your post can get buried among thousands of unrelated listings, a planning-focused board ensures your job reaches a qualified, engaged audience actively seeking roles in the field. This means better applicants, faster hires, and less time spent sorting through unqualified resumes.
Final Thoughts
The planning field is evolving—and so must your hiring approach. If you’re waiting for applicants to come to you, you’ll likely miss out. Instead, be proactive, be responsive, and offer what planners are really looking for.
👉 Ready to hire? Post your job on planningjobs.ca and connect with qualified professionals today.