Description

DOES THIS DESCRIBE YOU?

Our Urban Design Planning Studio is seeking a senior-level Urban Designer to join our team. Our ideal candidate has experience working on planning and urban design projects throughout the State of California, with experience in visioning, master plans, streetscape, community plans, specific plans, zoning and form-based codes, design standards, feasibility studies, and community engagement. We are looking for someone with a collaborative attitude, the ability to go beyond convention and develop creative and elegant solutions, and an interest in being part of a fast-paced design studio.

Candidates must have a minimum of 10-15 years post-degree working experience—including managing projects and leading design direction. Based on current project needs, desired professional experience includes leading massing and feasibility studies; preparing specific plans, master plans, and design standards; navigating zoning and development codes; facilitating client meetings; and pursuing new projects. Fluency in AutoCAD, Rhino (or similar 3D modeling/ rendering tools), Illustrator, InDesign, Photoshop, and Excel is required. 

Here’s what you would do:

• Lead design development and visioning in coordination with clients and design director, including project management, and preparation of design and planning studies, site analysis, site plans, feasibility studies, and design concepts and strategies.
• Develop 2D and 3D plans and graphics, massing and building prototype studies, site studies, site plans, and concept diagrams.
• Develop 3D renderings and before/after simulations.
• Lead existing conditions analysis, scale comparisons and precedent studies, zoning code and general plan analysis, as well as the preparation of master plans, specific plans, and other regulations guiding urban form.
• Prepare graphically rich reports, presentations, presentation boards, and design/planning documents using InDesign and PowerPoint. 
• Support inclusive community engagement and outreach activities, workshops, and meetings for both in-person and virtual outreach.
• Support business development activities, including proposal and interview preparation.

Requirements

• A minimum of 10-15 years of consulting experience in urban design and planning, with advanced knowledge of the profession as practiced in the State of California, including planning for urban housing and mixed-use infill, transit-oriented development, and complete streets implementation.
• An advanced degree in urban design or planning (MAUD, MLAUD, MUP) and an undergraduate degree in architecture or landscape architecture (BArch, B LArch) or a similar combination. 
• Experience managing complex urban design and planning projects, including managing sub-consultant teams, supervising design work by junior staff, providing design feedback and technical guidance, and supporting or leading proposal and business development activities.
• Experience successfully facilitating and analyzing client and community feedback and incorporating it into design concepts and strategies.
• Excellent presentation skills, including strong design and graphic communication skills, as well as the ability to present design concepts to the client, community, and others through compelling presentations and storytelling.
• Advanced graphic, drawing, and 3D modeling/rendering abilities, with demonstrated proficiency in AutoCAD, SketchUp, Rhino (or similar 3D modeling/ rendering tools), Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, InDesign), PowerPoint, and Excel are required. Advanced knowledge of Lumion or other rendering platforms is preferred

Diversity Statement

Ascent is committed to creating a culture of diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging throughout all facets of the organization. We value and will strive to ascend by welcoming and uplifting all voices, ideas, achievements, and contributions, including those from marginalized communities and identities. We believe that recognizing and embracing our differences makes us a stronger organization. We commit to proactively nurturing environments of mutual support, respect, and caring for all through our words and actions. Join us on our journey.

Affirmative Action/EEO Statement 

Ascent provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions