A planner (urban planner or municipal planner) is a professional who studies, designs, and manages community development and land use. Planners analyze population trends, assess development proposals, create long-range plans, review zoning applications, and help shape how communities grow. Professional planners typically hold planning degrees and may be certified through the Canadian Institute of Planners. Planning work involves balancing competing interests, community engagement, policy analysis, and technical review. Municipal planning departments employ planners at various levels, from junior staff reviewing applications to senior planners leading major policy initiatives. Planners help ensure development creates livable, sustainable communities.