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Urban Geography Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Town of Marana

Planner

Marana, AZ · On-site

$44K/yr

Bachelors degree in Urban/City Planning, Public Administration, or closely related field. Over six months experience in planning, geography, community development, public administration, or closely ...

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$14

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$48

How much do urban geography jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for urban geography in the United States is $28.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.63 and $33.65 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as an Urban Geographer, you need a strong background in geography, urban studies, spatial analysis, and often a relevant degree such as geography, urban planning, or GIS. Familiarity with Geographic Information Systems (GIS), remote sensing software, and data visualization tools is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills help Urban Geographers interpret data and collaborate with stakeholders. These skills are essential for effectively analyzing urban patterns, informing policy decisions, and addressing challenges in urban development.

What are some common challenges urban geographers face when conducting field research in cities?

Urban geographers often encounter challenges related to data collection in densely populated and rapidly changing urban environments. These may include navigating issues of accessibility, dealing with incomplete or outdated data, and obtaining permissions for fieldwork in certain neighborhoods. Additionally, urban geographers must be sensitive to local cultures and regulations while ensuring the privacy and ethical treatment of residents. Effective collaboration with local officials, planners, and community organizations is crucial for overcoming these challenges and gathering accurate, meaningful data.

What is the difference between Urban Geography vs Urban Planning?

AspectUrban GeographyUrban Planning
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Geography, Urban Studies, or related fieldsBachelor's or Master's in Urban Planning, Architecture, or related fields
Work EnvironmentResearch, analysis, fieldwork, academia, government agenciesDesign, development, policy-making, project management
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutes, government agencies, NGOsMunicipalities, private firms, government departments, consulting agencies

Urban Geography focuses on studying the spatial patterns, human-environment interactions, and geographic analysis of cities. Urban Planning involves designing and implementing policies and projects to develop and improve urban areas. While both fields overlap in understanding city dynamics, Urban Geography emphasizes research and analysis, whereas Urban Planning concentrates on practical development and policy application.

What is the highest paying geography job?

In urban geography, high-paying roles include urban planners, geographic information system (GIS) specialists, and transportation managers, with senior positions earning six-figure salaries. These roles often require advanced degrees, technical skills in GIS software, and experience in urban development or infrastructure projects.

What kind of jobs can I get with a geography major?

A geography major can lead to careers such as urban planner, GIS analyst, environmental consultant, transportation planner, or spatial data analyst. These roles often require skills in geographic information systems (GIS), data analysis, and understanding of urban environments, with opportunities in government agencies, consulting firms, and non-profit organizations.

What jobs can you do with geography?

Urban geography graduates can pursue careers in urban planning, geographic information systems (GIS), environmental consulting, transportation planning, and community development. These roles often require skills in spatial analysis, data management, and knowledge of urban environments, with many positions involving the use of GIS software and fieldwork.

What does an urban geographer do?

An urban geographer studies the spatial patterns, development, and organization of cities and urban areas. They analyze factors such as land use, transportation, and population distribution using tools like GIS and spatial analysis to inform urban planning and policy decisions.

What is urban geography?

Urban geography is a subfield of human geography that studies the spatial aspects of cities and urban processes. It examines how cities are formed, grow, and function, as well as how people interact within urban environments. Urban geographers analyze topics such as population distribution, land use, transportation systems, and socio-economic patterns in urban areas. Their work helps inform urban planning, policy-making, and the sustainable development of cities.
More about Urban Geography jobs
What cities are hiring for Urban Geography jobs? Cities with the most Urban Geography job openings:
What states have the most Urban Geography jobs? States with the most job openings for Urban Geography jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Urban Geography jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Urban Geography jobs are:
Urban Geography jobs near you
Principal Site Planner

Principal Site Planner

Palm Beach County, FL

West Palm Beach, FL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

Join Palm Beach County's Planning, Zoning and Building Department as a Planning Division Principal Site Planner, and help guide the future growth of our community.
Key Responsibilities:
• Provide leadership and supervision to professional and technical personnel within the Planning Division.
• Oversee project assignments and ensure high-quality performance and results.
• Assist in administering the Planning Commission, an advisory board to the Palm Beach County Board of County Commissioners.
• Apply planning principles and methodology in the formulation of various studies and projects.
• Draft and review correspondence, staff reports, conditions of approval, ordinances, resolutions, and comprehensive plan policies.
• Review and manage Comprehensive Plan and Future Land Use Atlas amendments, and develop recommendations.
• Manage and perform research and data analysis of social, economic, and physical trends, and report results.
• Review and develop presentations on planning topics for public hearings and community meetings.
Qualifications:
This position requires qualified applicants to possess one of the following:
  • A Bachelor's Degree in Landscape Architecture, Architecture, Urban/Regional Planning, Regional Planning, Environmental Studies, Geography, Geographic Information System (GIS), Archeology, Business/Public Administration, or closely related field; minimum of three (3) years of experience with a planning, zoning, or regulatory agency including two (2) years of supervisory experience.
  • A Master's Degree in Landscape Architecture, Architecture, Urban/Regional Planning, Regional Planning, Environmental Studies, Geography, Geographic Information System (GIS), Archeology, Business/Public Administration, or closely related field; minimum of one (1) year of experience with a planning, zoning, or regulatory agency including two (2) years of supervisory experience
  • An unrelated Bachelor's Degree in Landscape Architecture, Architecture, Urban/Regional Planning, Regional Planning, Environmental Studies, Geography, Geographic Information System (GIS), Archeology, Business/Public Administration, or closely related field; minimum of five (5) years of experience with a planning, zoning, or regulatory agency including two (2) years of supervisory experience
  • An Associate's Degree in Landscape Architecture, Architecture, Urban/Regional Planning, Regional Planning, Environmental Studies, Geography, Geographic Information System (GIS), Archeology, Business/Public Administration, or closely related field; minimum of five (5) years of experience with a planning, zoning, or regulatory agency including two (2) years of supervisory experience
  • Graduation from high school or an equivalent recognized certification; minimum of seven (7) years of experience with a planning, zoning, or regulatory agency including two (2) years of supervisory experience

Preferred Qualifications:
Preference for (must specify on application):
• Experience presenting items to advisory boards and/or during public hearings.
• Comprehensive Plan amendment experience.
• American Planning Association AICP certification.
Why work for Palm Beach County?
Working for Palm Beach County means building a meaningful career while enjoying outstanding benefits:
• Health, dental, life and disability insurance
• Generous vacation and sick leave + 13 paid holidays annually
• Participation in the Florida Retirement System - your choice of Pension or Investment Plans
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness: Did you know that your student loans may be forgiven as a public employee? Your time worked as a public employee with Palm Beach County can assist you in having your student loans forgiven through the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Program.
• 457(b) deferred compensation program
• Paid parental leave
• Tuition reimbursement
• Excellent work-life balance
• And more!

Apply