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Urban Research Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Wayne State University

Research Assistant

Detroit, MI · On-site

$19 - $26.25/hr

Wayne State is a premier, public, urban research university located in the heart of Detroit, Michigan where students from all backgrounds are offered a rich, high-quality education. Our deep-rooted ...

Wayne State University

Research Technician

Detroit, MI · On-site

$16 - $20/hr

Wayne State is a premier, public, urban research university located in the heart of Detroit, Michigan where students from all backgrounds are offered a rich, high-quality education. Our deep-rooted ...

Wayne State University

Research Assistant

Detroit, MI · On-site

$42K/yr

Wayne State is a premier, public, urban research university located in the heart of Detroit, Michigan where students from all backgrounds are offered a rich, high-quality education. Our deep-rooted ...

Dudek

Urban Designer

Pasadena, CA · Hybrid

$90K - $125K/yr

Planning & Urban Design Work Environment: Hybrid Compensation: $90,000-$125,000 annually* Dudek ... Research and analyze land use, transportation, housing, and environmental planning policies.

Urban Institute

The Urban Institute is a research-to-impact institution founded on one simple idea: To improve lives and strengthen communities, we need practices and policies that work. From advancing well-being to ...

Dudek

Urban Designer

Pasadena, CA · Hybrid

$90K - $125K/yr

Planning & Urban Design Work Environment: Hybrid Compensation: $90,000-$125,000 annually* Dudek ... Research and analyze land use, transportation, housing, and environmental planning policies.

Dudek

Urban Designer

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$90K - $125K/yr

Planning & Urban Design Work Environment: Hybrid Compensation: $90,000-$125,000 annually* Dudek ... Research and analyze land use, transportation, housing, and environmental planning policies.

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How much do urban research jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for urban research in the United States is $30.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.51 and $38.46 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is urban research?

Urban research is the systematic study of cities and urban areas, focusing on their development, structure, challenges, and opportunities. Researchers in this field analyze topics such as urban planning, housing, transportation, social dynamics, and environmental impacts to inform policy and improve city living. Urban research combines methods from sociology, geography, economics, and public policy to address issues like inequality, sustainability, and urban growth. The goal is to generate insights that help city leaders, planners, and communities make informed decisions for better urban futures.

What are some typical challenges faced by professionals in urban research, and how can they be addressed?

Urban researchers often encounter challenges such as navigating complex data sets, balancing the interests of diverse stakeholders, and addressing rapidly changing urban environments. To overcome these, it's important to develop strong analytical skills, practice effective communication with community members, and stay current with emerging urban trends and technologies. Collaborating with interdisciplinary teams and leveraging open-source data platforms can also help urban researchers generate more comprehensive and actionable insights.

What is the difference between Urban Research vs Urban Planning?

AspectUrban ResearchUrban Planning
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Urban Studies, Sociology, or related fieldsBachelor's or Master's in Urban Planning, Geography, or related fields
Work EnvironmentResearch institutions, think tanks, universitiesGovernment agencies, consulting firms, municipal offices
Industry UsageAnalyzing urban issues, data collection, policy researchDesigning city layouts, zoning, development projects

Urban Research focuses on analyzing urban issues through data and policy analysis, often working in research institutions. Urban Planning involves designing and implementing city development projects, working closely with government and community stakeholders. While both roles require related credentials and work in urban environments, their core functions differ: research versus planning and development.

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

To thrive as an Urban Researcher, you need strong analytical skills, a background in urban studies or a related field, and experience with data collection and statistical analysis. Proficiency with GIS software, data visualization tools, and research methodologies is typically required, along with familiarity with urban planning systems. Critical thinking, effective communication, and collaboration are standout soft skills for presenting findings and working with diverse stakeholders. These skills are essential for producing actionable insights that inform urban policy, planning, and development decisions.
More about Urban Research jobs
What cities are hiring for Urban Research jobs? Cities with the most Urban Research job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Urban Research jobs? The most popular types of Urban Research jobs are:
What states have the most Urban Research jobs? States with the most job openings for Urban Research jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Urban Research jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Urban Research jobs are:
Urban Research jobs near you
Infographic showing various Urban Research job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,318 per year, or $30.9 per hour.
Director of the Center for Urban and Coastal Climate Science Research

Director of the Center for Urban and Coastal Climate Science Research

Morgan State University

Baltimore, MD • On-site

$200K/yr

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago

Job description

Posting Details
Posting Summary
Job Title
Director of the Center for Urban and Coastal Climate Science Research
Division
Divison of Academic Affairs
Department
School of Computer, Mathematical & Natural Sciences
Work Status
Full Time
Position Category
Staff
Faculty Rank
Open Rank
FLSA
Exempt
Pay Range
Exempt
Salary Range
$150,00 - $200,000 / year
Fund Source
State Support
Job Summary
Founded in 1867, Morgan State University is Maryland's premier public urban research institution, recognized for its dedication to excellence in teaching, research, public service, and community engagement. The School of Computer, Mathematical, and Natural Sciences (SCMNS), in partnership with the Morgan State Patuxent Environmental and Aquatic Research Laboratory (PEARL), invites applications for the position of Director for the newly established Center for Urban and Coastal Climate Science Research. This Center is dedicated to addressing critical and complex challenges related to climate change, with a focus on its impact on natural ecosystems, the built environment, the economy, and the health and well-being of Maryland's residents. We are seeking a distinguished scientist and leader with a strong track record in environmental science research, including areas such as coastal and marine science, environmental toxicology, risk assessment, environmental modeling, or related disciplines. The ideal candidate will lead research and educational initiatives in crucial areas such as urban air quality, human and environmental health, community resilience, climate impacts on energy resources, coastal watershed dynamics, and sustainable fisheries management. These efforts are aimed at not only advancing scientific understanding but also providing evidence-based recommendations for effective climate change management strategies in Maryland and beyond.
Job Duties
The appointed Director will oversee the Center's daily operations, working in close collaboration with the Dean of SCMNS and the Director of Morgan State PEARL. Key responsibilities include:
1. Implementing the Center's strategic vision and research agenda
2. Developing and executing a robust research program in their specific area of climate science
3. Expanding the Center's reach by securing external funding through grants, contracts, and partnerships
4. Training students and mentoring early-stage investigators to support their development into independent environmental researchers
5. Leading the evaluation and enhancement of the Center's research activities
Knowledge, Skills, Abilities & Other Characteristics
The candidate should have a nationally recognized record of research accomplishments, demonstrated through current publications and secured funding. Significant leadership experience and a strong commitment to advancing climate science research are essential. The individual will hold a faculty appointment within the School of Computer, Mathematical, and Natural Sciences.
Required Minimum Qualifications
The successful candidate must possess a Doctorate in a relevant field from an accredited university.
Other Preferences for Consideration
Posting Detail Information
Posting Number
FA00362
Number of Vacancies
1
Job Open Date
06/26/2026
Best Consideration Date
Job Close Date
Special Instructions to Applicant
Interested applicants should submit the following:
- A cover letter outlining their interest in the position and qualifications.
- A comprehensive curriculum vitae.
- A statement of research accomplishments and future research plans.
- A statement of teaching philosophy and experience.
- Contact information for at least three professional references.

Apply