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 with 3-6 years of experience in Singapore, your main responsibilities include:

• Conducting comprehensive research and analysis on urban development projects, evaluating environmental impact, land use, and transportation systems.
• Collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to design and develop master plans, zoning regulations, and urban policies that promote sustainable and inclusive communities.
• Conducting community engagement activities to gather feedback and ensure that urban development projects meet the needs and aspirations of the local population.
• Monitoring and evaluating the implementation of urban plans and policies, making necessary adjustments to achieve desired outcomes and address emerging challenges.

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.

The role of an Urban Planner is crucial in shaping and developing the urban landscape. With 3-6 years of experience in Singapore, there are several alternative career paths to explore. Here are following options to consider:

• Transportation Planner: A role focused on developing and implementing transportation strategies, including public transit systems, traffic management, and sustainable transportation solutions.
• Environmental Planner: A position dedicated to assessing the environmental impact of proposed developments and designing plans to protect natural resources and mitigate environmental risks.
• Economic Development Officer: A role involving analyzing economic trends, attracting investments, and developing strategies to promote economic growth and prosperity in urban areas.
• Housing Policy Analyst: A position focused on analyzing housing market trends, evaluating policies, and developing strategies to address affordable housing needs and promote inclusive communities.

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.