Careers

Urban Designer

Experience Level: Entry (1-3 years)
Salary: $48,000 – $54,000

About Development Strategies

We are a multidisciplinary planning and advisory firm that improves communities by guiding and shaping investments in real estate, economy, community, policy, and place. Our team of planners, designers, analysts, and strategists collaborate to advance our holistic approach to creating plans for downtowns, districts, corridors, cities and private development.

We have a passion for cities, innovation, storytelling, and equity that permeates our practice and our plans. We blend the experience of place with practical analytics in a way that deepens understanding of a community’s assets, opportunities, and challenges. With this deeper understanding, we work with communities to shape strategies that are informed, impactful, and implementable. Throughout our planning, we strive to always tell the story of why things are the way they are, to give meaning and foundation to how to make positive change.

Job Description

The candidate’s primary roles will be to contribute physical analysis under the direction of a senior urban designer, conduct real estate analysis that contributes to the physical design and place framework of the plan, and to manage slide presentations and reports that communicate concepts, strategies, and value with visual clarity and concision. This includes:

  • Creation of physical development analysis through maps, aerials, diagrams, x-rays, and models that convey physical assets and challenges
  • Provide physical/urban design analysis and accompanying maps and other graphic materials for planning and development projects
  • Work with staff to create presentations with visual appeal and clarity
  • Work with team to convey place-based strategies through physical design and precedent imagery
  • Work with real estate professionals to devise workable development strategies in the physical realm
  • Creation of clear and compelling graphics that convey thoughtful analysis
  • Helping staff create reports that engage a broad range of audiences
  • Assisting staff in storytelling by enhancing the visual component of reports and presentations

Skills

  • Skilled at map-making, diagramming physical development analysis and identifying strengths and challenges to the physical form
  • Skilled at graphic layouts—stand-alone and in conjunction with written content
  • Skilled at, or willingness to learn, the development of infographics, icons, and other graphic elements that convey ideas
  • Familiarity with both Microsoft and Adobe Creative Suites
    • Microsoft: Powerpoint, Word, Excel
    • Adobe: InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop
    • Rhino 3D modelling software

Qualities and Qualifications

  • A four-year degree in architecture, landscape architecture, urban design, or physical Master’s degree is preferred
  • Strong graphic sensibility
  • Entry to Mid-level candidates are encouraged to submit
  • Understanding of deadline sensitivity and a willingness to adjust one’s schedule accordingly
  • A desire to do excellent work and help an organization achieve its potential
  • Ability to work efficiently and effectively within budget constraints
  • A positive approach to educating and collaborating with professionals with different skillsets

Interested candidates should send a letter of interest and resume to: jcarney@development-strategies.com.