Urban Planner

Urban planners map out the most effective use of a community’s land and infrastructure. They analyze economic, environmental, and social trends that help in the development of a plan for the land use.

Urban planners are typically independent contractors hired by a variety of clients: developers, private firms, government, and private property owners. They may develop a plan for a community based on a number of factors, including the goal for the area. Some urban planners focus more on developing and mapping residential neighborhoods, while others may be hired by a large corporation to develop a large group of corporate buildings.

Urban planners are required to know and adhere to local legislation and zoning codes. They must be knowledgeable about the infrastructure of the area they are developing. They must also consider any future issues that may arise, from traffic, crime, and sustainability. Often times, urban planners will be called in to help redevelop an area; this sometimes means that the client wants to create a more dense area.

Urban planners should hold a bachelor’s degree in the field from an accredited university. They also should get professional certification through the American Institute of Certified Planners by meeting specific educational and experience requirements; an exam is also given before they can obtain the certification. The AICP certification is not required to be an urban planner, but it can make candidates more marketable, especially to firms that require the certification before hiring.

As an Urban Planner in Singapore with 6-9 years of experience, your main responsibilities include:

• Conducting comprehensive research and analysis on urban development trends, policies, and regulations to inform and shape planning strategies.
• Collaborating with interdisciplinary teams to develop and implement integrated urban planning solutions that address social, economic, and environmental factors.
• Leading the preparation and review of master plans, zoning ordinances, and development guidelines to ensure compliance with urban planning principles and objectives.
• Engaging with stakeholders, including government agencies, community groups, and developers, to gather input, address concerns, and facilitate consensus for urban development projects.

For an Urban Planner role, the following qualifications are required:

• A bachelor's or master's degree in urban planning, geography, or a related field. This provides a strong foundation in the principles and practices of urban planning.
• Excellent knowledge of urban planning techniques, policies, and regulations. This includes understanding concepts such as zoning, land use, transportation systems, and environmental sustainability.
• Proficiency in using relevant software and tools for urban planning, such as Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and computer-aided design (CAD) software. This helps in analyzing data, creating maps, and developing visual representations of urban plans.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

For an experienced Urban Planner in Singapore, the possibilities for alternative roles are diverse. Here are following options worth considering:

• Environmental Consultant: A role that focuses on assessing environmental impact and advising on sustainable practices for urban development projects.
• Project Manager: A position involving the planning, execution, and coordination of various urban development initiatives, from infrastructure projects to community redevelopment.
• Policy Analyst: A role centered around analyzing and developing policies related to urban planning, addressing issues such as zoning regulations, transportation systems, and socioeconomic factors.
• Real Estate Developer: A position that involves identifying investment opportunities, acquiring properties, and overseeing their development to meet urban planning objectives while maximizing financial returns.

The job role of an urban planner in Singapore is expected to witness significant growth in the market. Over the past 10 years, the demand for urban planners has been steadily increasing due to Singapore's rapid urbanization and emphasis on sustainable development. According to recent projections, the number of employment opportunities in this field is expected to continue rising in the coming years. With Google data indicating a thriving economy and ongoing urban development projects in Singapore, it can be inferred that the job prospects for urban planners in the region are quite promising.