Roles and Skills
ECLARO delivers top talent for a variety of Urban Planner roles across public, private, and consulting sectors. Although the specifics and titles may vary for each organization, our experienced recruiters have a track record of success in helping organizations hire at all levels
Junior Urban Planners
Assist with data collection, zoning research, mapping, and community surveys.
Mid-Level Urban Planners
Develop comprehensive plans, conduct environmental and social impact assessments, and manage stakeholder consultations.
Senior Urban Planners
Lead urban development projects, advise on policy and zoning, mentor junior staff, and ensure compliance with local and regional planning regulations.Key skills
- GIS software and spatial analysis (ArcGIS, QGIS)
- Urban design and land use planning principles
- Zoning regulations and municipal code knowledge
- Public engagement and stakeholder communication
- Project management and timeline coordination
- Data analysis and demographic research
- CAD and visualization tools (AutoCAD, SketchUp)
Frequently asked questions
What does an Urban Planner do on a typical day?
Urban planners divide their time between research, design, and collaboration. They analyze demographic data and land use patterns, develop comprehensive plans for community growth, create zoning recommendations, and conduct public meetings to gather input on development projects. Much of the role involves using GIS and CAD software to visualize proposals, reviewing building permits, and coordinating with government agencies, developers, and community stakeholders to ensure projects align with long-term city or regional visions.
What certifications or education does an Urban Planner typically have?
Most urban planners hold a Master's degree in Urban Planning, Urban Design, or related fields like Geography or Public Administration. Many are certified by the American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP), which requires a combination of education, professional experience, and passing an exam. While a bachelor's degree can serve as a starting point, the master's credential is generally expected for mid-to-senior level positions and leadership roles in municipalities and planning firms.
How do I hire an Urban Planner through a staffing firm like ECLARO?
ECLARO's recruitment team works with you to define your specific needs—whether you need a planner for short-term project support, a specialized expertise gap, or a full-time hire. We maintain a network of qualified planners with varying expertise in areas like transit planning, sustainability, housing, or economic development. Once we understand your requirements and timeline, we vet candidates thoroughly and present qualified professionals who match your organization's needs and culture.
What types of projects do Urban Planners typically work on?
Urban planners work on diverse projects including comprehensive master plans for cities or regions, transportation and transit corridor studies, downtown revitalization initiatives, affordable housing strategies, zoning code updates, and sustainability plans focused on climate resilience and smart growth. They also support mixed-use development projects, conduct feasibility studies for new neighborhoods, and help communities navigate land use conflicts. The scope ranges from small municipal updates to large metropolitan region strategies.
Ways to hire through ECLARO
ECLARO can fill this role through contract or contract-to-hire staffing, direct placement, an Employer of Record (EOR), recruitment process outsourcing (RPO), or a dedicated offshore team in the Philippines (ECAPTIVE).