Urban Planner Job Description

What is an Urban Planner?

An urban planner is usually hired by a government entity at a state or local level to project manage land development. An urban planner will develop a plan for city expansion and consider important factors such as population growth, protected areas and more. They will meet with public officials and hold public forums to determine the best strategies for land usage and development.

Urban planners are required to have a master's degree in project management, public policy or a related field. An American Planning Association Certification (AICP) may also be required depending upon the state of employment. Additionally, they will research to remain up-to-date regarding zoning codes and environmental regulations. Urban planners who have exceptional communication skills and a keen analytical mind tend to excel in the position.

Urban Planner Job Description Template

Job Overview

Example Co. is one of the leading companies in our field in the area. We're proud of our 3.6 rating on Glassdoor from our employees. We are hiring a talented Urban Planner professional to join our team. If you're excited to be part of a winning team, Example Co. is a great place to grow your career. You'll be glad you applied to Example Co.

Responsibilities for Urban Planner

  • Conduct on-site investigations to determine factors affecting community development and potential decline including land usage
  • Account for traffic growth and manage solutions for common transportation needs
  • Research best practices to improve energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions from local businesses and warehouses
  • Oversee project development and help in providing affordable housing
  • Plan and design townships and cities promoting healthy and active lifestyles
  • Protect and preserve historical monuments and sites
  • Assist in planning and reviving low socio-economic areas within the district
  • Meet with industry experts to determine appropriate Disaster Risk Assessment plans for Emergency Management

Qualifications for Urban Planner

  • Master's degree in planning, public policy or a related field
  • Ability to analyze demographic data and identify trends in employment, health and other areas
  • Experience working in various database software programs including Microsoft Suite
  • Exceptional communication skills used when meeting with officials and presenting new plans
  • Detailed understanding of federal and local government programs and processes
  • Experience utilizing geographic information systems (GIS) software
  • Ability to conceptualize large-scale plans and established required milestones to complete projects
  • Professional work experience using a combination of creative and technical concepts in problem-solving
  • Full-scale understanding of the social and environmental effects of proposed plans and the best practices in design aesthetics

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Employers: How to Write Great Job Descriptions

  • Be sure to mention requisite years of experience and educational requirements
  • Tell job seekers what's unique about your company and job
  • Ideal length is a few paragraphs or about 200 words
  • Make sure to use appropriate paragraph breaks and bullet points so it's easy on the eyes
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