Urban Designer

Stratus Team LLC•Miami, FL

29d

About The Position

The Urban Designer contributes to the conception and development of urban design projects across a range of scales. This individual supports project teams by assisting with research, concept development, site analysis, and the creation of impactful planning and design solutions. Working closely with senior designers and multidisciplinary collaborators, the Urban Designer helps translate urban research into clear, visually compelling ideas that advance project objectives. The role requires strong graphic and communication skills, design curiosity, and the ability to work effectively with both internal teams and external stakeholders to deliver thoughtful, sustainable, and community-focused outcomes aligned with firm and client goals

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Urban Design, Urban Planning, Architecture, or Landscape Architecture.
Minimum 3-5 years of experience in urban planning/design, including leadership on large-scale projects.
Solid understanding of urban planning principles, land use regulations, zoning frameworks, and urban design best practices.
Familiarity with public and private sector development processes, including entitlements and permitting basics.
General understanding of infrastructure systems, environmental planning, and resilience strategies.
Proficient in AutoCAD, Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign), and Microsoft Office.
Competent in 3D modeling and visualization tools such as Rhino, SketchUp, Lumion, and V-Ray.
Skilled in preparing visually compelling presentations for clients, stakeholders, and public meetings.
Effective at managing multiple project tasks, supporting workflows, and maintaining communication across team members.
Ability to synthesize research, analysis, and stakeholder input into innovative and site-responsive urban design concepts.
Ability to actively contribute to multidisciplinary charrettes and collaborative planning sessions.
Ability to communicate complex ideas clearly through verbal, written, and graphic formats.
Ability to support coordination between technical experts, clients, and public stakeholders to advance project goals.
Ability to remain seated for extended periods while working at a computer or attending meetings.
Frequent use of standard office equipment, including computers, keyboards, telephones, and printers.
Occasional light physical activity such as walking, standing, or carrying materials (up to 25 lbs.).
Ability to communicate clearly and effectively in person, over the phone, and through written communication.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree in Urban Design, Planning, or a related discipline.
Familiarity with local codes and permitting processes in South Florida.
Knowledge of South Florida’s development context (preferred but not required, depending on firm/location).

Responsibilities

Support the full lifecycle of urban design projects with a strong emphasis on design quality, innovation, and alignment with client objectives and firm standards.
Collaborate with multidisciplinary project teams by contributing to clear communication, coordination, and teamwork throughout all project phases.
Assist in defining project scope and objectives; support the development of schedules, work plans, and resource allocations in coordination with project managers and senior staff.
Contribute to proposal development by preparing design materials, assisting with scope definition, and supporting fee-related documentation.
Participate in client engagement efforts, helping cultivate relationships and contributing to marketing materials, proposal responses, and interview presentations.
Assist in interfacing with local government officials, stakeholders, and community members to support the review of development proposals and planning initiatives.
Represent the firm in select public settings alongside senior staff, supporting presentations and contributing to discussions about land use, community development, and urban design.
Conduct research—including site, policy, demographic, environmental, and precedent studies—to inform planning and design strategies.
Translate site analysis and research into impactful urban design concepts and project documentation using both analog and digital tools.
Collaborate with clients, consultants, and internal teams to support the development of integrated planning strategies and design narratives.
Produce high-quality deliverables—including maps, diagrams, reports, graphics, and presentations—that clearly communicate planning and design intent.
Ensure design outputs meet applicable zoning codes, land use frameworks, urban design standards, and project requirements, with support from senior staff when needed.
Support client and community-facing presentations, articulating design concepts clearly and helping gather meaningful feedback to inform project development.
Contribute to a collaborative and creative studio culture through participation in team charrettes, design discussions, and knowledge-sharing efforts.
Assist with coordination between internal teams, consultants, and stakeholders to help maintain seamless project execution.
Perform other duties as assigned.
Work collaboratively and effectively with clients and colleagues, including cross-functional teams, peers, and project leads, while fostering an inclusive and positive work environment.
Adapt to changing business needs and priorities, demonstrating flexibility, initiative, and willingness to take on new responsibilities as needed.