Lead Urban Designer

Job Description

At Jacobs, we're challenging today to reinvent tomorrow by solving the world's most critical problems for thriving cities, resilient environments, mission-critical outcomes, operational advancement, scientific discovery and cutting-edge manufacturing, turning abstract ideas into realities that transform the world for good.

Your impact

Job Overview

We are looking for a Lead Urban Designer with 10+ years of experience in urban design, master planning, and urban regeneration. The ideal candidate should have a strong background in rehabilitation projects, urban character analysis, streetscape and public realm design. This role requires expertise in developing context-sensitive urban solutions that enhance livability, functionality, and sustainability.

Key Responsibilities

- Urban Design & Master Planning Lead the design of master plans, urban renewal strategies, and regeneration projects with a strong focus on place-making.
- Urban Character & Context Analysis Conduct studies on built form, land use patterns, heritage conservation, and spatial relationships to guide urban design interventions.
- Public Realm & Streetscape Design Develop pedestrian-friendly streetscapes, landscape integration, mobility strategies, and public space enhancements.
- Rehabilitation & Redevelopment Projects Design frameworks for slum rehabilitation, brownfield redevelopment, and transit-oriented development.
- FSI & Density Calculations Conduct Floor Space Index (FSI) and Gross Floor Area (GFA) calculations, ensuring compliance with planning norms and zoning regulations.
- Design Guidelines & Urban Codes Develop urban design guidelines, form-based codes, and zoning overlays to regulate urban growth.
- 3D Visualization & Digital Modeling Create conceptual and detailed urban design proposals using software like Rhino, SketchUp, AutoCAD, and GIS.
- Stakeholder Coordination Work closely with planners, architects, engineers, and government authorities to align urban design proposals with regulatory frameworks.
- Sustainability & Smart City Integration Implement climate-responsive and sustainable urban design strategies, including green infrastructure and resilient design.
- Project Documentation & Reports Prepare urban design reports, feasibility studies, and policy recommendations.

Here's what you'll need

Key Qualifications & Skills

Education Master's degree in urban design.

Experience 10+ years of experience in urban design, with a focus on rehabilitation and redevelopment projects.

Technical Proficiency Strong command of GIS, AutoCAD, SketchUp, Adobe Suite and parametric design tools.

Regulatory Knowledge Understanding of urban planning laws, FSI regulations, land use zoning, and building codes.

Soft Skills Excellent analytical, communication, and team leadership skills.

AtJacobs we value people. Having the right balance of belonging, career and lifestyle enables us to consistently deliver and exceed clients expectations.

Working alongside industry leaders, you will have the opportunity to develop your career working on key projects in an environment which encourages collaboration, knowledge sharing and innovation. To support your professional growth, Jacobs flexible working arrangements, extended leave options and a host of social, health and wellbeing events and initiatives will underpin our commitment to you.

At Jacobs it's all about what you do, not where you are, which counts

Onsite employees are expected to attend a Jacobs Workplace on a full-time basis, as required by the nature of their role.

Your application experience is important to us, and we're keen to adapt to make every interaction even better. If you require further support or reasonable adjustments with regards to the recruitment process (for example, you require the application form in a different format), please contact the team via Careers Support.