1

Urban Research Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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.

Showing results 21-40

Urban Research information

See salary details

$8

$30

$64

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:
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.
Lecturer Urban and Regional Planning

Lecturer Urban and Regional Planning

University of Colorado

Denver, CO • On-site

Part-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Posted 13 days ago


University Of Colorado Boulder rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 39 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

120th of 560 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Position Details
University of Colorado | Denver
Faculty Level/Title: Lecturer
Working Title: Lecturer in Urban and Regional Planning
FTE: Part-time .225 per 3-credit course or .45 per 6-credit course | Hybrid
Salary Range: The salary for this position as been established at $5,860 for a 3-credit hour course or $8,680 for a 6-credit hour course
Position #00611154 - Requisition #40203
Join the University of Colorado Denver
About the University of Colorado Denver
Millions of moments start at CU Denver, a place where innovation, research, and learning meet in the heart of a global city. We're the state's premier public urban research university with more than 100 in-demand, top-ranked bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degree programs. We partner with diverse learners-at any stage of their life and career-for transformative educational experiences. Across seven schools and colleges, our leading faculty inspires and works alongside students to solve complex challenges and produce impactful creative work. As part of the state's largest university system, CU Denver is a major contributor to the Colorado economy, with 2,000 employees and an annual economic impact of $665 million. To learn more about how CU Denver helps learners meet their moment, visit ucdenver.edu    

Job Description
* Applications are accepted electronically ONLY at www.cu.edu/cu-careers *
This posting establishes a pool of candidates to fill temporary, non-tenure-track lecturer positions in Urban & Regional Planning. This posting does not necessarily reflect a current, open position. Single-course appointments will be made semester by semester, as teaching needs arise. This temporary Lecturer pool is anticipated to remain continuously active through August 2026, at which point, all applications will be cleared from the pool. Applicants will be welcome to apply to future pools after that date.

Lecturer
What you will do:
The Department of Urban and Regional Planning in the College of Architecture and Planning at the University of Colorado Denver is seeking a pool of Lecturers from which future appointments will be made.  Lecturers selected from this pool will teach in the College's graduate program. Classes may range from three to six credit hours and may include lectures, seminars, and studios in all teaching modes (in-person, hybrid, online, remote).

Qualifications you already possess (Minimum Qualifications)
Applicants must meet minimum qualifications at the time of hire.

  • A master's degree in Planning or a related field.
  • Applicants should have a substantive background in urban planning or related fields, including experience with professional activities, research, interdisciplinary collaborations, community engagement, and relevant software.

Preferred Qualifications to possess (Preferred Qualifications)

  • Preference may be given to applicants with prior teaching experience, a record of professional practice in planning, and a professional degree in a planning-related field.
  • Individuals with multi-disciplinary education and expertise are strongly encouraged to apply.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

  • Ability to communicate effectively, across various modalities.
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills that support building positive, respectful relationships with students and colleagues.
  • Ability to work collaboratively with faculty and staff in a collegial academic environment. 
  • Ability to develop a clear syllabus outlining learning outcomes, policies, and assessments for the class.
  • Ability to adapt teaching strategies to different course formats (in-person, online, hybrid) and student needs. 
  • Ability to foster an inclusive classroom environment that encourages respectful dialogue across diverse perspectives.
  • Ability to incorporate inclusive and equitable teaching practices that support student success.
  • A commitment to inclusive excellence, including supporting students from diverse backgrounds and perspectives.

Conditions of Employment

  • The position may involve in-person or hybrid work depending on the specific course(s) being taught. Working from the office is encouraged when working on tasks that require a high degree of collaboration.

Mental, Physical, and/or Environmental Requirements

  • This position may be performed on site, and will require the ability to sit for extended periods, stand and walk occasionally, reach with hands and arms, use hands to manipulate a keyboard and mouse, and have good near vision for computer work;often requiring minimal lifting, but may involve bending or reaching to retrieve items from shelves or drawers.  
  • This position may be performed in a hybrid or remote environment, requiring the ability to work effectively in a remote setting. This includes maintaining a dedicated workspace free of excessive noise or distractions, reliable internet connectivity, and the ability to participate in virtual meetings for extended periods. Employees must be able to independently manage time, remain stationary for prolonged computer-based work, and transport necessary equipment (such as a laptop and peripherals) between their remote work location and the office as needed.

CU is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. We are committed to creating a workplace where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity, and we encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

The University will provide reasonable accommodation to applicants with disabilities throughout the employment application process. To request an accommodation pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, please contact the Human Resources ADA Coordinator at workplaceengagement@ucdenver.edu. 

Employment Sponsorship
Please be advised that this position is not eligible now or in the future for visa sponsorship.

Compensation and Benefits
The salary for this position has been established at:

  • $5,860 for a 3-credit hour course.
  • $8,680 for a 6-credit hour course.   

The salary of the finalist(s) selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to, internal equity, experience, education, specialty, and training.
The above salary represents the University's good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting.
This position is not eligible for overtime compensation. 
This part-time appointment is not eligible for group health, life insurance, or retirement benefits.

Application Deadline
Applications for this pooled position will be accepted on a rolling basis for up to six (6) months from the posting date [Dec 1, 2026, 11:59:00 PM]. Qualified applicants may be reviewed and approved for hire at any point during this period. Early application is encouraged, as the pool may close before the sixmonth window if all openings are filled. 

Required Application Materials:
To apply, please visit: http://www.cu.edu/cu-careers and attach:

  • A letter of interest describing relevant job experiences as they relate to listed job qualifications and interest in the position. 
  • Curriculum vitae / Resume outlining experience(s). 
  • Five professional references including name, address, phone number (mobile number if appropriate), and email address. (We will notify you prior to contacting both on and off-list references).

Questions should be directed to CAP Human Resources, cap.hr@ucdenver.edu.

Background Check Policy
The University of Colorado Denver strives to maintain a safe and productive educational, clinical, research and employment environment. All prospective employees and current employees must, therefore, consent to and pass background checks prior to any final appointment/employment.


What University Of Colorado Boulder employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom