Senior Urban Designer Jobs

Grade 2612/31/2023The City of Birmingham is looking for a well-qualified, motivated Senior Urban Designer to assist in the management and development of design plans for proposed public projects within its Urban Design division. Learn more about Birmingham, the position, and the tremendous benefits of being a part of the City of Birmingham team below.
The City of Birmingham is actively seeking a Senior Urban Designer to develop conceptual and schematic design plans for proposed public projects such as public buildings, parks, and streetscapes. They also participate in drafting, developing, reviewing and updating city ordinances that impact city sponsored projects. Individuals in this job class review proposed and existing developments to ensure they meet city standards and guidelines and make recommendations for suggested changes, when applicable.
In addition, Senior Urban Designers collaborate with directors, section heads, and program staff to effectively manage a variety of programs and projects. They also advise and collaborate with zoning and permit officials, public and private sector contractors, and various members of the public (i.e., citizens and neighborhood association officials) to ensure design standards and guidelines are met. Incumbents attend various meetings to represent the department/section and they work under the general supervision of the Urban Design Administrator.
This is not intended to be an all-inclusive listing of essential job functions; the performance of other essential functions may be required.

• Participates in the development and writing of design standards and guidelines for established or to be established special development or design districts and areas.
• Reviews existing design standards and guidelines for established areas to ensure they are performing as were intended.
• Attends various meetings including commission meetings, department meetings, community events, and professional meetings to represent the department/section.
• Reviews proposed site development plans submitted by private developers, landowners, etc. and if necessary suggest alternatives.
• Maintains design standards and guidelines for the city through developing, writing, and reviewing standards and guidelines for existing or to be established areas, updating design standards, and collaborating with staff to ensure functionality of design standards.
• Evaluates employee performance by observing and reviewing their work, providing feedback and resources for development, and motivating staff.
• Performs community relations activities and assists the public regarding design review issues as well as other public concerns related to urban design.
• Assists in resolving questions and concerns related to urban design and/or design review issues received from the public, business owners and consultants to ensure compliance with design standards.
• Prepares design plans manually and/or electronically (e.g., graphic software) that adhere to space constraints of the proposed work-site and cost constraints based on available budget.
• Manages various programs and projects by establishing goals and timelines, delegating responsibilities, reviewing work, collaborating with directors, section heads, and program staff, and assisting staff with projects.
• Develops conceptual and schematic design plans for proposed public projects (e.g., public buildings, parks, streetscapes, etc.) by applying architectural principles and practices.

• Paid vacation and sick leave
• A City-sponsored pension retirement plan. The City of Birmingham provides a Tier 3 a “defined benefit” plan where employee retirement payments are computed using a formula that considers several factors, such as length of employment and salary history.
• Vision insurance
• Membership and admission benefits for City attractions such as the Birmingham Zoo, Birmingham Museum of Art, Southern Museum of Flight, and more.
• Group Term Life & AD&D Insurance, Voluntary Term Life & AD&D, Whole Life Insurance, and Short-term Disability options
• Excellent medical insurance with employee monthly contribution as low as $32.50/month
• Flexible work arrangements including remote/telework options for up to two days per week and alternative work schedules (e.g., four 10-hour days). Such flexible work arrangements must be approved by the Department Director.
• Dental insurance
• Generous holiday schedule
• Behavioral health plan
• Salary range: $55,328.00 - $85,820.80 (starting salary is commensurate with education and experience)

• Knowledge of the processes and strategies used in the development and enhancement of long-term social, economic, and environmental conditions in a community.
• Knowledge of the principles and processes concerning the arrangement, appearance and functionality of towns and cities, and in particular the shaping and uses of urban public space.
• Knowledge of the processes and principles involved in architectural design and development.
• Knowledge of the principles of basic urban planning.
• Knowledge of floodplain areas, housing and community development as it relates to community revitalization.
• Knowledge of the principles and practices governing the planning, design, management, preservation and rehabilitation of landscape.
• Knowledge of drafting principles related to mapping, street layouts, parking lots and traffic control devices.