Associate Urban Design

Roles and responsibilities

• Responsible for initiating and developing engineering drawings through completion for assigned projects in conformance with the requirements, applicable codes, and design criteria established by the project’s discipline engineers.
• Under minimal supervision, may develop complex engineering drawings.
• Applies a solid level of understanding within a specific discipline.
• Understands codes, permits, and software applications related to the discipline.
• Fully understands the process of preparing designs and drawings using project specifications and discipline-associated written and verbal instructions in accordance with established design practices, standards, and procedures.
• Basic understanding of engineer’s process of performing and verifying design calculations to support the overall project design.
• Fully understands the purpose and use of vendor documents and reviews discipline supplier documents for accuracy. Can also review other discipline’s supplier documents.
• Fully understands the use of requisitions and the role of materials management, and can review/advise on purchase orders and subcontracts.
• Collects data on manpower, man-hour, and labor costs requirements for design staff to aid in evaluating the budget.
• Intermediate knowledge of cost estimating methods and performs material take-offs for the discipline.
• Intermediate knowledge of discipline’s materials costs and concept of cost analysis and forecasting.
• Basic knowledge of the project change control process and can identify a potential change.
• Fully understands the discipline’s equipment and material lists.
• May provide technical guidance to less experienced design staff.

Desired candidate profile

1. Urban Planning and Design Knowledge

• Urban Planning Principles: Understanding of urban design principles, including the layout and organization of streets, public spaces, and infrastructure.
• Design Philosophy: Knowledge of design theories and concepts that emphasize human-centered spaces, walkability, accessibility, and connectivity.
• Site Analysis: Ability to analyze and assess the site’s context, including its historical, cultural, environmental, and social aspects.

2. Design Skills

• Architectural and Landscape Design: Proficiency in both architectural design (building forms, facades) and landscape design (green spaces, plazas, public areas).
• Conceptual Design: Developing initial design concepts, vision statements, and master plans for urban projects.
• Aesthetic Sensibility: Ability to combine beauty, functionality, and practicality in urban spaces that reflect the local context and culture.

3. Knowledge of Sustainable Design

• Sustainability Practices: Understanding of sustainable urban design, including energy efficiency, low-carbon materials, water conservation, and green infrastructure.
• Environmental Impact: Evaluating the environmental impact of urban designs, aiming for eco-friendly, energy-efficient spaces.
• Green Building Standards: Familiarity with certifications like LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) and BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method).

4. Regulatory and Zoning Knowledge

• Zoning Laws and Codes: Knowledge of local zoning regulations, building codes, and environmental laws that govern land use, density, and building heights in urban areas.
• Permitting Process: Understanding of the regulatory and permitting process for urban developments.
• Compliance with Safety Standards: Ensuring that designs meet the required safety standards for public spaces, transportation, and accessibility.

5. Urban Infrastructure Understanding

• Transportation Systems: Knowledge of urban transportation systems, including public transit, pedestrian pathways, cycling lanes, and roads.
• Utility Infrastructure: Understanding the role of utilities such as water, electricity, sewage, and waste management in urban design.
• Smart Cities and Technology: Familiarity with smart city technologies that integrate data and digital systems to improve urban living (e.g., traffic management, lighting, waste collection).