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Urban Studies Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Wayne State University

Research Assistant

Detroit, MI · On-site

$19 - $26.25/hr

Center for Urban Studies Employment type: * Regular Employee * Job type: Full Time * Job category: Staff/Administrative Funding/salary information: * Compensation type: Annual Salary * Hourly rate:

Dudek

Urban Designer

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$90K - $125K/yr

Develop conceptual architectural massing studies, urban design concepts, site layouts, and illustrative plans * Translate planning policies, zoning regulations, and General Plan land use guidance ...

pondco

Urban Planner III

Atlanta, GA · On-site

... master plans, small area plans, corridor studies, placemaking strategies, and downtown ... Bachelor's or Master's Degree in Urban Design, Architecture, Landscape Architecture, or City and ...

pondco

Urban Planner III

Atlanta, GA · On-site

... master plans, small area plans, corridor studies, placemaking strategies, and downtown ... Bachelor's or Master's Degree in Urban Design, Architecture, Landscape Architecture, or City and ...

Pond and Company

Urban Planner III

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$77K - $118K/yr

... master plans, small area plans, corridor studies, placemaking strategies, and downtown ... Bachelor's or Master's Degree in Urban Design, Architecture, Landscape Architecture, or City and ...

Dudek

Urban Designer

Pasadena, CA · Hybrid

$90K - $125K/yr

Develop conceptual architectural massing studies, urban design concepts, site layouts, and illustrative plans * Translate planning policies, zoning regulations, and General Plan land use guidance ...

exp

Urban Planner

Tampa, FL · On-site +1

Develop and implement comprehensive urban and regional plans ... Conduct land-use and development studies, prepare planning reports, and provide recommendations for ...

Halff

Urban Designer

Austin, TX

Urban Designer - Austin Halff seeks an experienced urban designer to join our growing Planning and ... Projects Projects are likely to range from concept level studies/site planning to long range plans ...

EXP

Urban Planner

Tampa, FL · On-site

Develop and implement comprehensive urban and regional plans ... Conduct land-use and development studies, prepare planning reports, and provide recommendations for ...

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Urban Studies information

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$16.5K

$57.2K

$121K

How much do urban studies jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for urban studies in the United States is $57,158.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37,500.00 and $67,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is urban planning still a good career?

Urban planning is a stable and growing field that involves designing and developing land use policies, transportation systems, and community infrastructure. Professionals in this field typically need strong analytical skills, knowledge of zoning laws, and proficiency with planning software. Job prospects are supported by ongoing urban development and infrastructure projects worldwide.

What jobs can you get with an urban ecology degree?

With an urban ecology degree, you can pursue careers such as urban planner, environmental consultant, conservation scientist, or sustainability coordinator. These roles often involve data analysis, GIS tools, and knowledge of ecological principles to develop sustainable urban solutions.

What are urban studies?

Urban studies is an interdisciplinary field that examines the development, structure, and functioning of cities and urban areas. It explores issues such as urban planning, social dynamics, economic development, environmental impacts, and public policy within urban environments. Professionals in this field analyze how cities grow, the challenges they face, and potential solutions to improve urban life. Urban studies draws from sociology, geography, economics, political science, and environmental studies to understand and address urban issues.

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

To thrive as an Urban Studies professional, you need a solid background in urban planning, sociology, and data analysis, often supported by a relevant degree such as urban studies, urban planning, or geography. Familiarity with Geographic Information Systems (GIS), statistical software, and urban design tools is typically required. Strong communication, critical thinking, and collaborative skills help you engage stakeholders and address complex urban challenges. These competencies enable effective urban development, policy analysis, and sustainable solutions for diverse urban environments.

What is the difference between Urban Studies vs Urban Planning?

AspectUrban StudiesUrban 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, policy think tanks, government agenciesCity planning departments, consulting firms, government agencies
Employer & Industry UsageAcademic, research, policy analysisMunicipalities, private planning firms, development companies
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding academic focus and research rolesCareer paths in city development and design

Urban Studies focuses on analyzing urban environments, social issues, and policy impacts, often emphasizing research and theory. Urban Planning involves designing and implementing physical development projects, zoning, and land use policies. While both fields overlap in understanding cities, Urban Studies is more research-oriented, whereas Urban Planning is more practical and application-driven.

What can you do with an urban studies major?

An urban studies major prepares individuals for careers in urban planning, community development, transportation, policy analysis, and environmental design. Graduates often work for government agencies, non-profit organizations, consulting firms, or pursue further education in related fields. Skills in research, data analysis, GIS tools, and understanding of social and environmental issues are valuable in these roles.

What types of collaborative projects do Urban Studies professionals typically engage in with local governments or community organizations?

Urban Studies professionals often work closely with local governments, non-profits, and community groups on projects such as neighborhood revitalization, affordable housing planning, and sustainable transportation initiatives. These collaborations usually involve conducting community needs assessments, facilitating public workshops, and analyzing data to inform policy recommendations. Working in multidisciplinary teams is common, allowing professionals to contribute their expertise in urban analysis while learning from colleagues in planning, public health, and environmental studies. This teamwork not only enhances project outcomes but also provides valuable networking and professional development opportunities.

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

In the field of urban studies, high-paying roles such as senior urban planners, real estate developers, or consulting firm partners can reach or exceed $500,000 annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced degrees, and leadership responsibilities. These positions often require strong analytical skills, project management, and industry connections, and may involve working in private consulting, government agencies, or large development firms.
More about Urban Studies jobs
What cities are hiring for Urban Studies jobs? Cities with the most Urban Studies job openings:
What states have the most Urban Studies jobs? States with the most job openings for Urban Studies jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Urban Studies jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Urban Studies jobs are:
Urban Studies jobs near you
Infographic showing various Urban Studies job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,158 per year, or $27.5 per hour.
Research Assistant

Research Assistant

Wayne State University

Detroit, MI • On-site

$19 - $26.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago

Wayne State University rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 20 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

253rd of 555 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Research Assistant
Wayne State University is searching for an experienced Research Assistant at its Detroit campus location.
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 commitment to excellence, collaboration, integrity, diversity and inclusion creates exceptional educational opportunities which prepare students for success in a global society.
Essential functions (job duties):
POSITION DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITES
  • Provide coordination assistance on multi-funded and/or multi-site research projects.
  • Assist project director in project planning to ensure that pre-established work scope, study protocol, and program requirements are followed.
  • Develop and maintain recordkeeping systems and procedures for project-specific reporting.
  • Assume responsibility for coordinating crime prevention research duties for AmeriCorps members involved in the AmeriCorps Urban Safety Project (AMUS).
  • Assist in coordinating multiple crime prevention survey data collection efforts for one or more research projects - may include other collaborating agencies or institutions.
  • Represent AMUS at local AMUS events, community gatherings, workshops, and trainings (must be available nights and weekends).
  • Integrate information from multiple sources to meet the necessary requirements of funding agencies.
    Prepare regular updates to Center Director and Managing Director.

Unique duties:
Qualifications:
MINIMUM QUALIFICATONS
  • Bachelor's Degree in any area of social science research (including political science, anthropology, demography, education, geography, psychology, public health, social work, sociology, survey methodology, statistics, and urban studies) required.
  • Experience coordinating AmeriCorps members required.
  • Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively with others.
  • Strong problem resolution, organizational, analytical, and communication (oral and written) skills; ability to collaborate effectively.
  • Strong diplomatic skills to present, answer questions and concerns effectively to groups.

Please submit an electronic application viathe Wayne State University Online Career Site. Please include a resume,names of references, and transcript (unofficial).
Preferred qualifications:
School/College/Division:
Generic Division
Primary department:
Center for Urban Studies
Employment type:
  • Regular Employee
  • Job type: Full Time
  • Job category: Staff/Administrative
Funding/salary information:
  • Compensation type: Annual Salary
  • Hourly rate:
  • Salary minimum: 45,000
  • Salary hire maximum: 50,000
Working conditions:
Normal Office Environment
Job openings:
  • Number of openings: 2
  • Reposted position: No
  • Reposted reason: None (New Requisition)
  • Prior posting/requisition number:
Background check requirements:
University policy requires certain persons who are offered employment to undergo a background check, including a criminal history check, before starting work. If you are offered employment, the university will inform you if a background check is required.

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