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Urban Designer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Ascent

Lead Urban Designer

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$135K - $189K/yr

Our ideal candidate is a seasoned urban designer with deep California experience, a collaborative attitude, and a track record of leading specific plans, master plans, community plans, zoning, form ...

WATG

Senior Project Urban Designer

Tustin, CA · On-site

$105K - $125K/yr

ROLE The Senior Project Urban Designer collaborates with architects, landscape architects, consultants, and other project members to plan, design, coordinate and present ideas for a variety of ...

Ascent

Lead Urban Designer

San Diego, CA

$135K - $189K/yr

Our ideal candidate is a seasoned urban designer with deep California experience, a collaborative attitude, and a track record of leading specific plans, master plans, community plans, zoning, form ...

WATG

Senior Project Urban Designer

Tustin, CA

$105K - $125K/yr

ROLE The Senior Project Urban Designer collaborates with architects, landscape architects, consultants, and other project members to plan, design, coordinate and present ideas for a variety of ...

Perkins & Will

Senior Urban Designer

Boston, MA

$110K - $118K/yr

As a Senior Urban Designer , you will be responsible for leading all phases of the design process with a high level of proficiency and expertise while adhering to firm and project goals and standards ...

SOM

Senior Urban Designer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$120K - $128K/yr

Demonstrates an advanced understanding of planning and urban design concepts, building typologies, critical dimensions and systems, utility and infrastructure systems, land development imperatives ...

Perkins and Will

Senior Urban Designer

Boston, MA · On-site

$110K - $118K/yr

As a Senior Urban Designer , you will be responsible for leading all phases of the design process with a high level of proficiency and expertise while adhering to firm and project goals and standards ...

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Urban Designer information

See salary details

$53.5K

$72.7K

$89K

How much do urban designer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for urban designer in the United States is $72,746.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,000.00 and $80,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Urban Designer vs City Planner?

AspectUrban DesignerCity Planner
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Urban Design, Architecture, or PlanningBachelor's or Master's in Urban Planning, Public Policy, or related fields
Work EnvironmentDesign studios, public agencies, private firmsGovernment agencies, municipal offices, consulting firms
Industry UsageFocuses on aesthetic, functional, and sustainable design of urban spacesFocuses on policy, zoning, land use, and development regulations

Urban Designers primarily focus on the visual and functional design of urban spaces, while City Planners concentrate on policy, zoning, and land use regulations. Both roles collaborate to shape sustainable and functional cities but differ in their core responsibilities and work environments.

How much are urban designers paid?

Urban designers typically earn a median annual salary of around $70,000 to $80,000, with salaries varying based on experience, location, and education. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced professionals or those in senior roles can earn over $100,000 annually.

What does an urban designer do?

An urban designer plans and develops the layout and appearance of urban spaces, focusing on creating functional, sustainable, and aesthetically pleasing environments. They analyze land use, collaborate with architects and planners, and use design tools like GIS software to develop master plans and public spaces. Strong skills in design, zoning regulations, and environmental considerations are essential for this role.

What jobs pay $500,000 a year in the US?

Urban designers typically do not earn $500,000 annually; such high salaries are more common in executive roles, specialized medical professionals, or successful entrepreneurs. High-paying jobs often require extensive experience, advanced degrees, or ownership of a business. For most urban designers, salaries range from $60,000 to $120,000 per year, depending on location and experience.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

Urban designers typically require a degree in urban planning, architecture, or related fields; however, some high-paying roles in sales, real estate, or entrepreneurship can reach $10,000 a month without a formal degree. Success in these areas often depends on skills, experience, networking, and market conditions.

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

Urban designers frequently work in multidisciplinary teams, collaborating with architects, landscape architects, engineers, city planners, and community stakeholders. Their role involves synthesizing input from these diverse professionals to create cohesive, functional, and aesthetically appealing urban spaces. Effective communication and coordination are essential, as urban designers often facilitate workshops, present design proposals, and integrate feedback into the planning process to ensure the project's success and community acceptance.

What Do Urban Designers Do?

An urban designer surveys an area before construction. These are often large-scale areas such as land for a shopping mall, a subway system, or a housing complex. Their job duties include surveying selected places, creating blueprints with computer software, and meeting with civil engineers to ensure planning is correct. Many urban designers focus on public spaces, such as developing a public building or city park. This career requires a master’s degree in urban design or a related field. Additional qualifications include design experience, an interest in public architecture, and strong computer skills.

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 expertise in urban planning, spatial analysis, environmental design, and typically a degree in urban design, architecture, or landscape architecture. Proficiency in CAD software, GIS systems, and 3D modeling tools is commonly required, along with knowledge of zoning laws and building codes. Strong communication, collaboration, and creative problem-solving skills help Urban Designers effectively engage stakeholders and create sustainable communities. These abilities are crucial for developing functional, attractive urban spaces that meet the needs of diverse populations and regulatory standards.
More about Urban Designer jobs
What cities are hiring for Urban Designer jobs? Cities with the most Urban Designer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Urban Designer jobs? The most popular types of Urban Designer jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Urban Designer jobs? The top employers for Urban Designer jobs are:
What states have the most Urban Designer jobs? States with the most job openings for Urban Designer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Urban Designer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Urban Designer jobs are:
What are popular job titles related to Urban Designer jobs? For Urban Designer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Urban Designer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Urban Designer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 85% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% In-person, and 2% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $72,746 per year, or $35 per hour.

Lead Urban Designer

Ascent

Sacramento, CA • On-site

$135K - $189K/yr

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Lead specific plans, master plans, and other urban design and planning projects from concept to delivery, including visioning, site analysis, feasibility studies, and design concepts and strategies.

  • Provide guidance, technical expertise, and mentoring to junior members of the Urban Design + Planning Studio, and collaborate across disciplines.

  • Lead inclusive community engagement and outreach activities, workshops, and meetings for both in-person and virtual outreach.

Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
Ascent is looking for a Lead Urban Designer to join our Urban Design + Planning Studio. Our ideal candidate is a seasoned urban designer with deep California experience, a collaborative attitude, and a track record of leading specific plans, master plans, community plans, zoning, form-based codes, design standards, feasibility studies, and community engagement. We are looking for someone with a collaborative attitude, the ability to go beyond convention and develop creative and elegant solutions, and an interest in being part of a fast-paced design studio.
This is a leadership role within our Urban Design + Planning Studio. In a typical week, you might:
  • Drive the design vision - Lead specific plans, master plans, and other urban design and planning projects from concept to delivery, including visioning, site analysis, feasibility studies, and design concepts and strategies.
  • Mentor and elevate the team - Provide guidance, technical expertise, and mentoring to more junior members of the Urban Design + Planning Studio, and collaborate across disciplines, including climate action planning, environmental planning, and natural resources.
  • Develop compelling visuals - Develop 2D and 3D plans and graphics, massing studies, site plans, concept diagrams, 3D renderings, and before/after simulations that bring ideas to life.
  • Prepare graphically rich reports - Produce graphically-rich reports, presentations, and planning documents using InDesign and PowerPoint.
  • Engage the Community - Lead inclusive community engagement and outreach activities, workshops, and meetings for both in-person and virtual outreach.
  • Help grow the practice - Lead business development activities, including identifying opportunities, preparing proposals, leading interviews, and cultivating client relationships.

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.
Requirements
  • A minimum of 12-15 years of consulting experience in urban design and planning, with advanced knowledge of the profession as practiced in the State of California, including planning for housing and mixed-use infill, transit-oriented development, and complete streets.
  • A master's degree or other advanced degree in urban design or planning and an undergraduate degree in architecture or landscape architecture, or a similar combination.
  • Professional experience primarily in a consulting environment, leading urban design and planning projects for public or private clients in California.
  • Experience managing complex urban design and planning projects, including managing sub-consultant teams, supervising early career staff, and leading business development activities.
  • Excellent presentation skills, including strong design and graphic communication skills, as well as the ability to present design concepts to the client, community, and others through compelling presentations and storytelling.
  • Advanced graphic, drawing, and 3D modeling/rendering abilities, with demonstrated proficiency in AutoCAD, SketchUp, Rhino (or similar 3D modeling/ rendering tools), Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, InDesign), PowerPoint, and Excel are required. Advanced knowledge of Lumion or other rendering platforms is preferred.

Why Ascent
We are an Urban Planning + Design Studio that goes beyond convention - immersing ourselves in every project, working collaboratively with our clients and colleagues across many scales from neighborhoods to regions, and producing user-friendly plans, easy-to-navigate codes, and effective design standards that actually get implemented. We encourage creative thinking, high-quality design, and implementable products that genuinely drive change in the communities we serve. At Ascent, you'll have the opportunity to lead meaningful projects, grow your career alongside talented colleagues, and help build something worth being proud of.
Work environment
  • Typical office environment
  • In-office

Physical Demands
  • Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer
  • Must be able to lift 15 pounds at a time

Travel
  • Limited travel will be required

Work authorization/security clearance requirements: Not eligible for sponsorship
Additional eligibility requirements: N/A
At Ascent, we believe in fostering a nurturing environment that prioritizes our people. We are committed to holistic investments in our team, offering not only competitive salaries and comprehensive medical benefits but also a range of perks designed to enhance emotional, financial, and physical wellness. A comprehensive listing of benefits offered can be found here .
As a people-first organization, we value and will strive to ascend by welcoming and uplifting all voices, ideas, achievements, and contributions, including those from marginalized communities and identities. We believe that recognizing and embracing our differences makes us a stronger organization. We commit to proactively nurturing environments of mutual support, respect, and caring for all through our words and actions.
Interested in learning more about Ascent's culture? Reach out to our People Resources team at PeopleResources@ascent.inc. We look forward to hearing from you!
EEO Statement
Ascent provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. Ascent is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. To request reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, contact PeopleResources@ascent.inc.
Ascent strives for equity in every area at Ascent, including compensation. To ensure candidates are paid fairly, the offered salary will fall within this range and will be determined based on the candidate's demonstrated qualifications and alignment with the requirements of the position outlined above.
Salary Description
$135,200-$189,280

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