Senior Urban Designer

The City of Birmingham is seeking a well-qualified and motivated Senior Urban Designer to develop conceptual and schematic design plans for proposed public projects such as public buildings, parks, streetscapes, etc. 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. They also collaborate with zoning and permit officials, public and private sector contractors, and various members of the public (e.g., citizens and neighborhood association officials).

Their work is performed under the direction of a supervisor who reviews work for accuracy, completeness, and adherence to policies and procedures.

The City of Birmingham provides competitive pay and comprehensive benefits packages to include medical and dental insurance, employer-sponsored retirement plan (pension), generous paid holidays, sick and vacation leave, and more.

• 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.
• Performs community relations activities and assists the public regarding design review issues as well as other public concerns related to urban design.
• Develops conceptual and schematic design plans for proposed public projects (e.g., public buildings, parks, streetscapes, etc.) by applying architectural principles and practices.
• Prepares design plans manually and/or electronically (e.g., graphic software) that adhere to space constraints of the proposed worksite and cost constraints based on available budget.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• Evaluates employee performance by observing and reviewing their work, providing feedback and resources for development, and motivating staff.
• Attends various meetings including commission meetings, department meetings, community events, and professional meetings to represent the department/section.

The following are job‑related qualifications that are required for employment consideration for this position:

• Driver’s license.
• Bachelor’s degree in Architecture, Architectural History, Landscape Architecture, Historic Preservation, Urban Planning, or a related degree (e.g., Drafting and Design).
• Experience reviewing and implementing city ordinances that impact the development of land.
• Experience leading/facilitating public meetings (e.g., neighborhood meetings, business associations).
• Experience administering public boards, agencies, and committees (e.g., organizing committees, preparing agendas, compiling minutes, making presentations/reports).
• Experience preparing designs, conceptual drawings, reports, schematics, graphics and other visual aids in support of land development policy/projects.