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Urban Design Research Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Department of Urban Planning and Design at Harvard University's Graduate School of Design ( GSD ... We seek candidates whose record of research, scholarship, and/or professional practice is ...

Urban Designer

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$90K - $125K/yr

Research and analyze land use, transportation, housing, and environmental planning policies ... and urban design assignments. * Assist with scopes of work, proposals, and cost estimates.

Urban Designer

Pasadena, CA · Hybrid

$90K - $125K/yr

Research and analyze land use, transportation, housing, and environmental planning policies ... and urban design assignments. * Assist with scopes of work, proposals, and cost estimates.

Urban Designer

Pasadena, CA · Hybrid

$90K - $125K/yr

Research and analyze land use, transportation, housing, and environmental planning policies ... and urban design assignments. * Assist with scopes of work, proposals, and cost estimates.

This opportunity entails being under close supervision, assist departments by performing basic ... Conducts basic research and data collection. * Maintains records, collections and files related to ...

This opportunity entails being under close supervision, assist departments by performing basic ... Conducts basic research and data collection. * Maintains records, collections and files related to ...

Urban Designer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$90K - $105K/yr

Our Urban Systems Lab leverages the firm's multidisciplinary studio environment to engage in ... We take a research-based, systems-oriented approach to collaborative design and problem-solving.

Urban Designer

Seattle, WA · On-site +1

$90K - $105K/yr

Our Urban Systems Lab leverages the firm's multidisciplinary studio environment to engage in ... We take a research-based, systems-oriented approach to collaborative design and problem-solving.

Urban Designer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$90K - $105K/yr

Our Urban Systems Lab leverages the firm's multidisciplinary studio environment to engage in ... We take a research-based, systems-oriented approach to collaborative design and problem-solving.

Day-to-Day Depending on the qualifications of the candidate, the role is likely to include: * serving as project manager/assistant project manager on planning and urban design projects * assisting ...

Urban Designer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$90K - $105K/yr

Our Urban Systems Lab leverages the firm's multidisciplinary studio environment to engage in ... We take a research-based, systems-oriented approach to collaborative design and problem-solving.

... urban ... design work products - research, analysis, site planning, design guidelines, renderings and ...

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Urban Design Research Assistant information

What does an urban design research assistant do?

An Urban Design Research Assistant supports urban planners and designers by collecting, analyzing, and presenting data related to city planning, land use, and public spaces. They often assist with field research, mapping, community engagement, and reviewing academic literature to inform urban design projects. Their work helps ensure that urban development is sustainable, functional, and meets the needs of communities. The role may also involve preparing reports, visualizations, and recommendations for design solutions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an urban design research assistant?

To thrive as an Urban Design Research Assistant, you need a background in urban planning, architecture, or a related field, along with strong analytical and research abilities. Familiarity with GIS software, Adobe Creative Suite, and data visualization tools is typically expected. Excellent communication, attention to detail, and collaborative skills help you effectively contribute to interdisciplinary projects and present findings clearly. These skills ensure you can gather and interpret data, support design development, and facilitate informed decision-making in urban environments.

How does an urban design research assistant typically collaborate with other team members during a project?

Urban Design Research Assistants frequently work alongside urban planners, architects, GIS specialists, and senior researchers to support project goals. They contribute by gathering and analyzing data, preparing visualizations, and synthesizing findings for team meetings. Collaboration often involves regular check-ins, sharing research progress, and incorporating feedback from different disciplines to refine proposals. This role is highly interactive, requiring strong communication skills and flexibility to adapt to evolving project needs.

What is the difference between Urban Design Research Assistant vs Urban Planning Intern?

AspectUrban Design Research AssistantUrban Planning Intern
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in urban design, architecture, or related fieldTypically pursuing or holding a degree in urban planning or related discipline
Work EnvironmentResearch projects, design studios, field surveysOffice settings, community engagement, site visits
Employer & Industry UsageDesign firms, urban development agencies, academic institutionsMunicipal planning departments, consulting firms, NGOs

Both roles support urban development projects but differ mainly in focus: the Urban Design Research Assistant emphasizes design research and spatial analysis, while the Urban Planning Intern concentrates on planning policies and community engagement. Understanding these distinctions helps job seekers target the right opportunities in the urban development industry.

Do urban design research assistants get paid a lot?

Urban design research assistants typically earn salaries that are moderate compared to other planning and design roles, with pay often reflecting experience, education, and geographic location. Entry-level positions may start lower, while those with specialized skills or advanced degrees can earn higher wages. Overall, the salary is generally considered average within the urban planning and design field.

What can I do with an urban design research assistant degree?

An urban design research assistant degree prepares individuals for roles involving urban planning, community development, and spatial analysis. Graduates can work in government agencies, consulting firms, or non-profit organizations, utilizing skills in GIS, data collection, and project analysis to support urban development projects.

What cities are hiring for Urban Design Research Assistant jobs?

Cities with the most Urban Design Research Assistant job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Urban Design Research Assistant jobs?

For Urban Design Research Assistant jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Urban Design Research Assistant job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 84% In-person, 8% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution.

Professor of Urban Design

Cambridge, MA • On-site

Harvard University
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 51 - 200 employees

$185K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago


Harvard University rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Position
Details
Title
Professor of Urban Design
School
Harvard Graduate School of Design
Department/Area
Urban Planning and Design
Position Description
The Department of Urban Planning and Design at Harvard University's Graduate School of Design (GSD) invites applications for a faculty position at the rank of Professor of Urban Design with tenure from distinguished scholars and practitioners. We seek candidates whose record of research, scholarship, and/or professional practice is recognized by peers as constituting exemplary, innovative approaches that critically engage with key challenges facing cities, including sustainable spatial patterns, conflicts facing the public realm, transformations of work and living environments, and growing economic and social inequalities while integrating these challenges within an epistemology of urban-architectural design.
In addressing these challenges, we are interested in candidates who are committed to interdisciplinary engagement in a school that hosts the fields of urban planning, landscape architecture, architecture, and real estate, as well as with schools within Harvard University at large. Candidates should demonstrate an ability to engage with a full range of urban design methods such as the deployment of digital platforms, new technologies including AI, and the latest innovations in spatial analysis and representation. Applicants should have a forward-looking agenda combining design research with studio and/or classroom pedagogy.
Basic Qualifications
Applicants must have an advanced terminal degree in urban design, architecture, or a related design field focused on cities.
The school aims to attract and retain individuals who possess a quality of mind demonstrating high levels of intelligence, clarity of expression, analytical ability, critical judgment, creativity, and initiative. We also value individuals who support free inquiry and expression by others and constructive, collegial collaborations with faculty, staff, and students. In the school's evaluation of candidates, desirable individual qualities and high potential are not substitutes for a record of academic and creative achievement. Accomplished contributions to the field through scholarship and/or design are essential to effective teaching over time. Continued study and investigation with public exposition of research and professional accomplishments are normal obligations for Harvard faculty members.
The position of tenured professor is intended for individuals pursuing full-time academic careers who are highly effective teachers and whose creative work in scholarship, design research/work, professional practice, or a combination thereof, is recognized by peers as a preeminent and enduring intellectual contribution to their field. Individuals in this position will employ their time teaching, conducting creative work in scholarship or design research/work, and fulfilling their responsibilities for academic service. Appointments are made with tenure on a full-time basis. The appointment for a full-time position requires residency in Cambridge/Boston, MA.
Additional Qualifications
Special Instructions
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis beginning in August 2026.
Applicants should submit:
  • A cover letter
  • A Curriculum Vitae
  • Design and research work samples - selected material from your portfolio, including publications, research statement, design work (up to 15 mb).

Subsequent Submission: Candidates advancing in the selection process will be asked to provide additional material later.
If visa sponsorship is needed, Harvard retains the discretion to determine which visa status is appropriate and whether a visa sponsorship application will ultimately be submitted, including payment of any applicable fees.
Contact Information
Katherine Igoe, Faculty Search Coordinator
Contact Email
katherine_igoe@gsd.harvard.edu
Salary Range
Professor (full-time, tenured) hiring range: $185,000+
Minimum Number of References Required
Maximum Number of References Allowed
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