Senior Project Manager - Urban & Community Planning

Pond & Company•Atlanta, GA

1d•$119,400 - $192,700•Hybrid

About The Position

The Senior Project Manager for Urban Design and Community Planning is a senior-level professional responsible for leading complex planning and urban design initiatives from visioning through implementation. This role requires a strategic thinker and skilled practitioner who can manage multidisciplinary teams, engage diverse stakeholders, and translate community input into actionable, high-quality plans and projects. The ideal candidate combines design excellence, technical planning expertise, and strong leadership capabilities with a deep commitment to community-centered outcomes. This individual operates with a high degree of autonomy, demonstrating sound judgment, initiative, and accountability in delivering impactful, implementable solutions.

Requirements

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Urban Planning, Urban Design, Architecture, Landscape Architecture, or a related field
10+ years of progressive experience in urban design, planning, or related disciplines
Demonstrated experience managing complex projects and leading multidisciplinary teams
Strong portfolio of completed planning and/or urban design projects
Excellent written, verbal, and visual communication skills
Operates independently with minimal supervision while driving results
Connects vision to implementation with clear, actionable pathways
Brings forward-thinking ideas grounded in real-world feasibility
Demonstrates respect for diverse perspectives and inclusive engagement
Effectively conveys complex ideas to varied audiences
Builds strong internal and external partnerships

Nice To Haves

Professional certification such as AICP Certification or licensure in Architecture or Landscape Architecture
Experience working with public-sector clients and navigating regulatory processes
Familiarity with GIS, Adobe Creative Suite, and visualization tools
Experience in the Southeast U.S. or similar growth contexts

Responsibilities

Lead and manage comprehensive planning, urban design, and placemaking projects, including comprehensive plans, small area plans, corridor studies, and redevelopment strategies
Oversee all phases of project delivery: scoping, budgeting, scheduling, technical execution, and quality control
Ensure projects are delivered on time, within budget, and aligned with client objectives and regulatory frameworks
Provide strategic direction and problem-solving on complex planning and design challenges
Lead multidisciplinary teams, including planners, urban designers, engineers, and subconsultants
Delegate effectively while maintaining accountability for overall project outcomes
Mentor and develop junior and mid-level staff, fostering a culture of design excellence and innovation
Coordinate with public agencies, elected officials, and partner organizations
Design and lead inclusive, meaningful community engagement processes
Facilitate public meetings, workshops, charrettes, and stakeholder interviews
Integrate community input into planning and design solutions in a thoughtful and transparent manner
Navigate complex political and community dynamics with professionalism and sensitivity
Develop and oversee the creation of plans, frameworks, and design concepts that reflect best practices in urban design, land use planning, and placemaking
Ensure solutions are context-sensitive, market-informed, and implementable
Apply innovative approaches to mixed-use development, mobility, public realm design, and economic activation
Maintain awareness of emerging trends, policies, and tools in planning and urban design
Serve as a primary point of contact for clients, maintaining strong, trusted relationships
Identify opportunities for additional services and support proposal development and presentations
Contribute to the firm’s growth through thought leadership and strategic positioning