Planner I

Job Description:

Pape-Dawson is seeking an entry level Planner I in Chattanooga to support community-based planning efforts in collaboration with AICP planners, landscape architects, and engineers, contributing to the development of plans, projects, and policy documents. It applies comprehensive and neighborhood-scale planning principles to public realm design while engaging community stakeholders and translating input into functional plans, policies, and design solutions.

Joining Pape-Dawson’s Chattanooga team means building your career in one of the city’s most distinctive office settings—inside the historic Chattanooga Choo Choo, a former train station transformed into a vibrant mixed-use destination. Located in a space that once housed a guitar museum, the office is full of character and reflects the creativity and community spirit of downtown Chattanooga. For nearly 15 years, our team of approximately 35 professionals and field staff has provided trusted local expertise and responsive service across the region.

Our multidisciplinary team delivers civil engineering, landscape architecture, planning, surveying, construction engineering and inspection, and environmental services. From the transformation of former industrial land into The Bend, a dynamic mixed-use downtown neighborhood, to multifamily developments such as One Riverside, our professionals contribute to projects that are shaping Chattanooga’s future. Team members have the opportunity to make a visible impact, collaborate with clients and public agencies, and work alongside experienced project managers in an office that brings together meaningful work, strong relationships, and an exceptional downtown location.

Responsibilities 

• Collaborate with senior staff on planning and design projects for public sector clients
• Collect data and conduct research and analysis for planning studies related to demographics, housing, land use, transportation, and economic trends to inform community and regional planning initiatives
• Prepare maps, graphics, and visual materials to support planning reports and presentations
• Assist with report writing, including findings, recommendations, and implementation strategies
• Support community engagement activities, including workshops and public meetings
• Assist in interpreting and applying zoning codes, land-use regulations, and environmental policies
• Coordinate with interdisciplinary teams to ensure project consistency and compliance
• Perform additional related duties as assigned

Qualifications 

• Bachelor’s degree in Community/Regional Planning, Urban Planning, or related field 
• 0-1+ years of related experience in planning, land use, or community design
• Strong analytical, writing, and presentation skills
• Proficiency with Arc GIS Pro, AutoCAD, Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, SketchUp, or other relevant software applications
• Familiarity with local zoning and land use regulations, environmental codes, and planning principles
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines effectively 
• Progress toward AICP certification preferred

If you need an accommodation or assistance with completing your application due to a disability or special need, please contact our team at [email protected] or call (210) 375-9000.

EEO Statement:

All qualified applicants for Pape-Dawson Engineers will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.