ZipRecruiter

Log In

2

Entry Level Urban Planning Phd Jobs (NOW HIRING)

ZGF Architects

Entry-Level Urban Designer

Portland, OR · On-site

$59K - $70K/yr

ZGF is seeking an Entry-Level Urban Designer to be based in our Portland office. At ZGF, we thrive ... Perform elementary planning or landscape assignments and work collaboratively with others toward ...

ZGF Architects

Entry-Level Urban Designer

Portland, OR · On-site

$59K - $70K/yr

ZGF is seeking an Entry-Level Urban Designer to be based in our Portland office. At ZGF, we thrive ... Perform elementary planning or landscape assignments and work collaboratively with others toward ...

ZGF Architects

Entry-Level Urban Designer

Portland, OR · On-site

$69K - $70K/yr

Overview ZGF is seeking an Entry-Level Urban Designer based in our Portland office. We thrive on ... Perform elementary planning or landscape assignments and work collaboratively with others toward ...

PlaceWorks

Entry-Level Urban Designer/Planner

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$27.88 - $41.83/hr

Job Title Entry-Level Urban Designer/Planner Location Santa Ana, CA - US (Primary) Category Urban ... Experience with planning documents such as specific plans, general plans, and master plans are a ...

City of Tustin

Planning Technician

Tustin, CA · On-site

This entry-level opportunity offers aspiring urban planning professionals hands-on experience in development review, zoning, and land-use research. The ideal candidate will have a passion for public ...

New

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsConstruction JobsGovernment Construction JobsUrban Planner JobsEntry Level Urban Planning Phd Jobs

Entry Level Urban Planning Phd information

See salary details

$14

$26

$79

How much do entry level urban planning phd jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level urban planning phd in the United States is $26.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $23.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Are urban planners in high demand?

Urban planners, including those with entry-level PhDs, are in steady demand due to ongoing urban development, infrastructure projects, and sustainability initiatives. Employment growth is expected to be around 3% over the next decade, reflecting consistent need for planning expertise and skills in GIS and data analysis.

Can you get an entry level urban planning PhD?

An entry-level urban planning PhD is uncommon, as most positions in urban planning require a master's degree or professional experience. A PhD is typically pursued for research, academic, or specialized roles, and entry-level positions often seek candidates with relevant internships or a master's degree in urban planning or a related field. Skills in GIS, data analysis, and policy are also important for entry-level roles.

How hard is it to get a job as an entry level urban planning PhD?

Securing an entry-level urban planning PhD position can be competitive due to the advanced degree, but strong research skills, relevant internships, and familiarity with planning tools like GIS can improve prospects. Job availability depends on the local job market and funding opportunities, and candidates often need to demonstrate a clear research focus and practical experience.

How to get into entry level urban planning Phd with no experience?

Entry level urban planning PhD programs typically require a relevant master's degree or equivalent experience; however, applicants with strong academic records, research experience, or related skills such as GIS or data analysis can strengthen their application. Gaining internships, volunteering, or assisting with research projects can also improve prospects, even without formal work experience. Demonstrating a clear interest in urban issues and developing relevant skills can help offset limited experience during the application process.

What are the most commonly searched types of Urban Planning Phd jobs?

The most popular types of Urban Planning Phd jobs are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Urban Planning Phd jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Urban Planning Phd jobs are:

Entry Level Urban Planning Phd jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Urban Planning Phd job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,594 per year, or $26.7 per hour.

Entry-Level Urban Designer

Portland, OR • On-site

ZGF Architects
Architectural Services • 501 - 1,000 employees
Learn more about ZGF Architectsexternal

$59K - $70K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago

Job description

ZGF is seeking an Entry-Level Urban Designer to be based in our Portland office. At ZGF, we thrive on multi-disciplinary engagement at the intersection of architecture and urban design and are distinguished by creative and intellectual curiosity. We are looking for thoughtful individuals with excellent communication and design skills.

As an Entry-Level Urban Designer, you will…

  • Be part of a community focused on design excellence and innovation.
  • Collaborate with the design team for generating and developing design ideas.
  • Perform elementary planning or landscape assignments and work collaboratively with others toward design solutions, compile data, develop elementary design studies and option, consider material and assembly cost data, prepares reports, plans and renderings, and inspect existing conditions and work in the field
  • Work on projects from concept design through construction administration.
  • Produce design drawings, construction documents, presentation drawings, graphic design work, and digital and physical modeling in support of Urban Design, as well as marketing efforts.
  • Research products and materials, observe existing projects and those under construction to inform the production of reports and design documentation
  • Help us tell the story of our projects through various media.
  • Work under design supervision and receive instruction and mentoring.
  • Perform fundamental planning and urban design tasks and work collaboratively with others toward design solutions for our projects.

Qualifications:

  • You have a Landscape Architecture, Architecture Degree and/or Urban Design Degree.
  • A basic understanding of design and construction principles and building types
  • A creative problem solver with well-rounded Urban Design skills and the ability to work independently, with multi-disciplined teams, and balance multiple projects, often with short schedules and quick deadlines.
  • Experience with complex multi-phased higher education, large transit, healthcare, civic and/or commercial development projects is desired.
  • You are interested in honing your technical ability with materials and constructability.
  • Proficient in Adobe Suite, Revit, Rhino, AutoCAD, Sketch-Up, and Microsoft Office.
  • Ability to illustrate urban planning and design concepts graphically in a clear and effective manner.
  • Organizational and critical thinking skills to create materials for engaging and creative presentations through storytelling.

Base Salary Range: 

$59,250/yr - $70,000/yr 

Benefits 

ZGF Employees Enjoy Medical, Dental and Vision coverage with a generous employer contribution, HSA with employer contribution, 401k with employer match, 4 weeks of PTO and 10 paid holidays per year, paid parental and family leave programs.

Apply With:  

  • Cover letter 
  • Resume 
  • Portfolio 

We know that great projects take more than a design team to become a reality. Studies show that women and people from underrepresented groups are less likely to apply for jobs unless they meet every qualification. We encourage you to apply even if you don’t check every box—your skills and experiences may be exactly what we need.

ZGF Architects is committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and welcoming workplace. As an equal opportunity employer, we celebrate the unique qualities and perspectives that each individual brings to our team. We encourage applicants of all backgrounds, experiences, and identities to apply. Regardless of age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law, we are excited to consider qualified candidates.

If you're ready to contribute to meaningful work, we invite you to submit your cover letter and resume online.

Powered by JazzHR

TWHFa20WU9