Urban Planner Job Responsibilities

Urban planners are fine architectural professionals who plan out structures in the urban areas to make efficient use of the available lands. They plan programs and projects to construct buildings, dams, roads, waterways, transport systems and all other necessary structures to create well organized and environmental friendly metropolitan cities, townships, communities, counties, etc. They work to make an urban space attractive, revitalizing, and capable of accommodating the growing population.

Operating on a larger scale, these land use planners are knowledgeable about different types of constructions. Apart from the projects delegated by the district and city authorities, the planners also work on private projects proposed by non profit organizations, property developers, etc. Most of these professionals possess the quality of efficiently functioning in a team as they are required to work with various other professionals like community associates, public officials, etc.

In order to design, regenerate, and develop an urban community, they create long term and short term plans and specifically determine and study the requisites and prerequisites of the community. They may not necessarily work on new projects, but also be hired for developing the existing ones. They ensure that the community areas are provided with profitable aid to overcome the environmental, social, and economic problems. Moreover, they see that appropriate resources are supplied to the communities for fulfilling their recreational and commercial needs.

Another important responsibility of the planners is to ensure that the urban designs are productive and functioning at their optimum efficiency. No developmental project is considered for designing unless it is thoroughly studied. Therefore, conducting surveys, analyzing relevant data, examining weather conditions, assessing geographical significances, etc., are regarded as important tasks in urban land planning.

Duties and Responsibilities

Formulating long range aims and objectives to meliorate the impacted communities and help them cope up with modifications and growth
Examining the market investigation information, economical aspects, environmental surveys, political factors, census results, cultural issues, etc.
Maintaining effective contacts with contractors and other construction experts to acquire talented and competent laborers
Studying the critical aspects which hinder the process of making efficient use of land by performing thorough field researches
Staying updated with the legal land planning regulations, planning permits, environmental policies, zoning codes, etc., and adhering to the federal and state protocols
Controlling the planning disputes and supplying evidences for the appeals made

Education

A master's degree in architecture or urban or regional planning or a bachelor's degree in public administration or landscape architecture
Certification from American Institute of Certified Planner is an advantage
Ability to develop spatial and working relationship with private land owners, regulatory organizations, local governmental officials, etc.
Great analytical and communication skills

Career Advancement

With the urge to cater to the environmental and rapid population advancement concerns, the demand for urban planners is anticipated to move up to 16% during this decade. With appropriate experience, these professionals can also make their careers in regional planning, architecture, and other related fields. Besides, they can contribute to the development of technologies and designs.