Urban and regional planners develop long- and short-term plans for the use of land and the growth and revitalization of urban, suburban, and rural communities and the region in which they are located. They help local officials alleviate social, economic, and environmental problems by recommending locations for roads, schools, and other infrastructure and suggesting zoning regulations for private property.

Opportunities: Local government, environmental agency, transportation department

Pay: Average $56,630 annually.

Training: Master's degree and internship

Citation: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2008-09 Edition , Urban and Regional Planners, on the Internet at http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos057.htm (visited July 22, 2009 ).