Urban Planner/Designer

As an Urban Planner/Designer at VHB, you will engage in a variety of essential duties, including site due diligence, GIS analysis, and developing housing strategies. You will support public outreach efforts with a strong emphasis on equity, contribute to comprehensive planning practices focusing on sustainability, and conduct spatial analysis. Additionally, you'll be involved in urban design projects ranging from simple site studies to complex mixed-use developments, applying various design and modeling tools.

To be considered for the Urban Planner/Designer role at VHB, candidates should possess a minimum of a B.S. in city planning, urban design, or a related field; an MS degree is preferred. Candidates should also have 5-8 years of experience in similar roles. Proficiency in GIS, Sketchup, and the Adobe Creative Suite is advantageous, as is a strong understanding of sustainability and public health planning.

Success as an Urban Planner/Designer at VHB requires a deep passion for urban design and community equity, as well as the ability to manage multiple tasks independently. Excellent interpersonal and communication skills are crucial to interact effectively with clients and colleagues. Familiarity with tools like ArcGIS and Sketchup, along with an understanding of sustainability practices, will greatly enhance your contributions to the team's efforts.

The work environment for Urban Planners/Designers at VHB is vibrant and collaborative, characterized by a culture of inclusion and innovation. You will have the opportunity to work on a range of complex and transformational projects while enjoying a flexible, hybrid workplace model that promotes work-life balance. VHB encourages learning and development, fostering a collegial atmosphere where ideas flourish.

Absolutely! VHB places a strong emphasis on career growth and professional development. Urban Planner/Designers can expect opportunities to advance their skills through various engaging projects and professional development programs tailored to enhance their expertise in planning and urban design.

When faced with a project requiring community engagement, I would first outline a clear strategy for outreach, ensuring that all community voices are heard. This could involve organizing workshops, surveys, or public forums to gather input and foster dialogue. Effective communication and a genuine interest in community needs are key to building trust and collaboration in planning efforts.

In a previous project, I was tasked with developing a green space in an urban area. I conducted thorough research on sustainable design guidelines and integrated features such as native plant landscaping, rain gardens, and permeable paving to enhance the ecological footprint. The positive feedback from the community reinforced the importance of incorporating sustainability into urban design.

My go-to tools for urban design projects are Sketchup for 3D modeling and Adobe Creative Suite for graphic presentations. These tools allow me to visualize design concepts effectively and present them in an engaging manner to both clients and stakeholders.

I make it a priority to stay informed about zoning and environmental regulations by subscribing to industry newsletters, participating in relevant workshops, and networking with fellow professionals. Engaging in continuous education through seminars and online courses also keeps my knowledge current.

I once faced a challenge involving conflicting stakeholder interests in a development project. To resolve this, I facilitated a series of meetings where stakeholders could express their views openly. By promoting dialogue and finding common ground, I was able to develop a modified plan that addressed major concerns while still meeting project goals.

Equity plays a crucial role in urban planning for me as I believe every community deserves access to resources and opportunities. I strive to incorporate equitable practices by analyzing disparities and involving diverse community members in the decision-making process, ensuring that projects foster inclusivity and meet the needs of all residents.

Effective prioritization involves assessing each project's urgency and significance. I would develop a structured schedule and outline key milestones for each project, regularly communicating with team members to ensure everyone is aligned. Flexibility and adaptability are also vital in managing changing priorities as the projects progress.

For effective data analysis, I leverage GIS tools to visualize spatial data, supported by statistical analysis to identify trends and patterns. Integrating qualitative data through community feedback enriches the analysis, allowing for a more comprehensive understanding of the planning context and implications.

Collaboration is central to success in urban planning. I approach it by fostering open communication and building trust among all team members and stakeholders. Regular meetings and feedback loops help create a shared vision and ensure everyone is engaged and informed throughout the process.

When designing a new public space, I consider factors such as community needs, accessibility, environmental sustainability, and aesthetic appeal. Engaging community input is critical to ensure the space meets the desires of those who will use it, while also aligning with broader urban planning goals.