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Urban Design Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

ZGF Architects

Entry-Level Urban Designer

Portland, OR · On-site

$69K - $70K/yr

ZGF is seeking an Entry-Level Urban Designer to be based in our Portland office. At ZGF, we thrive ... Collaborate with the design team for generating and developing design ideas. * Perform elementary ...

ZGF Architects

Entry-Level Urban Designer

Portland, OR · On-site

$69K - $70K/yr

ZGF is seeking an Entry-Level Urban Designer to be based in our Portland office. At ZGF, we thrive ... Collaborate with the design team for generating and developing design ideas. * Perform elementary ...

ZGF Architects

Architectural Medical Planner

Portland, OR · On-site

$69K - $80K/yr

We thrive on multi-disciplinary engagement, practicing at the intersection of architecture, interiors, and urban design. As a Medical Planner , you will... * Facilitate stakeholder engagement at all ...

ZGF Architects

Architectural Medical Planner

Portland, OR · On-site

$69K - $80K/yr

We thrive on multi-disciplinary engagement, practicing at the intersection of architecture, interiors, and urban design. As a Medical Planner, you will... * Facilitate stakeholder engagement at all ...

ZGF Architects

Architectural Medical Planner

Portland, OR · On-site

$69K - $80K/yr

We thrive on multi-disciplinary engagement, practicing at the intersection of architecture, interiors, and urban design. As a Medical Planner , you will... * Facilitate stakeholder engagement at all ...

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Urban Design information

How does an urban designer typically collaborate with other professionals during a project?

Urban designers frequently work in multidisciplinary teams, collaborating closely with architects, landscape architects, civil engineers, city planners, and community stakeholders. During a project, they are responsible for integrating diverse perspectives and technical requirements to develop cohesive and sustainable urban spaces. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, as urban designers often facilitate workshops, present design proposals, and incorporate feedback from various collaborators to refine their plans. This collaborative environment not only enriches the design process but also helps ensure that the final outcomes meet both functional and community needs.

What do you do as an urban designer?

An urban designer develops plans and designs for the layout and appearance of urban spaces, focusing on improving functionality, aesthetics, and sustainability. They analyze land use, collaborate with stakeholders, and use design tools like CAD to create proposals that enhance community livability and infrastructure.

What is urban design?

Urban design is the process of shaping the physical features of cities, towns, and villages, focusing on the arrangement, appearance, and functionality of public spaces. Urban designers work to create environments that are attractive, sustainable, and livable by integrating buildings, landscapes, streets, and public spaces. Their work includes planning new developments, revitalizing existing areas, and ensuring that urban spaces meet the needs of communities while promoting economic growth and environmental sustainability.

Is urban design a good job?

Urban design is a professional field focused on planning and shaping urban environments, combining creativity with technical skills such as GIS and CAD. It offers opportunities in government agencies, consulting firms, and private practices, often requiring a degree in urban planning or architecture. The job can be rewarding for those interested in sustainable development and community improvement, with typical work hours and project-based schedules.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an urban designer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Urban Designer, you need a solid background in architecture, urban planning, spatial analysis, and typically a relevant degree such as urban design, architecture, or landscape architecture. Familiarity with GIS software, CAD programs, and visualization tools like SketchUp or Adobe Creative Suite is often required. Strong communication, creativity, and collaboration skills help urban designers engage stakeholders and develop innovative solutions. These abilities are crucial to creating functional, sustainable, and attractive urban environments that meet community needs.

What is the difference between Urban Design vs Urban Planning?

AspectUrban DesignUrban Planning
CredentialsDegree in Urban Design, Architecture, or Landscape ArchitectureDegree in Urban Planning, Geography, or Public Policy
Work EnvironmentDesign studios, city centers, public spacesGovernment agencies, planning departments, consulting firms
Industry UsageFocuses on the aesthetic and functional design of urban spacesFocuses on policy, zoning, and land use regulations

Urban Design and Urban Planning are closely related fields, but Urban Design emphasizes the visual and functional aspects of city spaces, while Urban Planning involves broader policy and land use decisions. Both roles often collaborate to create sustainable, functional, and attractive urban environments.

What cities in Oregon are hiring for Urban Design jobs?

Cities in Oregon with the most Urban Design job openings:

Urban Design jobs near you
Infographic showing various Urban Design job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 89% In-person, and 11% Hybrid job distribution.

Entry-Level Urban Designer

ZGF Architects

Portland, OR • On-site

$69K - $70K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 hours 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:
$69,250/yr - $70,787/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.

Apply