Urban Planner in Cincinnati

Urban Planner

Location: Cincinnati, OH 45202
Department: Urban Planning
Employment Type: Full-Time

KZF Design is a multidisciplinary architecture, engineering, and planning firm proudly recognized as one of Cincinnati’s Top Workplaces since 2021. We are passionate about creating spaces that serve, inspire, and strengthen communities. Join a team where your voice matters and your work make a difference.

We are seeking an entry-level Urban Planner to join our planning team in Cincinnati, Ohio. This role is suited for someone early in their career who is interested in contributing to planning projects within a collaborative, multidisciplinary A/E environment.

The Urban Planner will work on a range of projects focused on community planning, mobility and infrastructure planning, corridor studies, scenario planning, site planning, and recreation planning. Working alongside other planners, engineers, architects, and landscape architects, this position is actively involved in both long‑range planning efforts and site‑specific studies.

This role involves researching and data analysis, stakeholder engagement, and preparing reports, maps, and graphics that translate ideas into clear, visually compelling, and implementable plans for our public‑and‑private‑sector clients.

• Support senior planners on studies, reports, planning documents, and other project activities
• Support planning and urban design projects through research, data collection, and analysis
• Assist in preparing planning documents, reports, and presentations
• Create maps, graphics, and visual materials using GIS and Adobe Creative Suite
• Compile and summarize data related to land use, demographics, development, economic, and recreation trends
• Assist with site planning, corridor studies, and scenario planning efforts
• Develop concept plans, diagrams, and graphics that communicate planning ideas clearly
• Support preparation of materials for client meetings and public engagement activities
• Assist in organizing and documenting input from stakeholder and community engagement efforts
• Help review site plans and development proposals for consistency with zoning and planning policies
• Participate in coordination with internal project teams across disciplines
• Attend project team meetings, and daytime/evening/weekend meetings if needed
• Assist with field investigation site visits as requested

• Bachelor’s or master’s degree in planning, urban design, or a related field
• 1–3 years of experience (internships or related experience applicable)
• Working knowledge of Esri ArcGIS Pro
• Strong graphic and layout skills using Adobe Creative Suite (InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop)
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
• Familiarity with AutoCAD and Sketch Up
• Strong written communication skills, including report writing and document preparation
• Organized and detail‑oriented, with the ability to manage multiple assignments
• Ability to think critically and contribute to problem‑solving efforts
• Ability to work both independently and in a collaborative, multidisciplinary team environment
• Experience with planning documents such as master plans, strategic plans, or design guidelines
• Familiarity with site planning or urban design concepts; hand drawing is a plus
• Experience with AutoCAD, Sketch Up, or Enscape
• AICP candidate or interest in pursuing AICP certification

• Collaborative and inclusive work environment
• Opportunities for professional growth and leadership
• Competitive compensation and benefits
• Commitment to design excellence and community impact

• Medical & Dental Insurance
• 401(k) Retirement Plan with company match
• Paid Time Off & Holidays
• Professional Development Support
• Collaborative, Inclusive Work Culture
• Recognition as one of Cincinnati’s Top 100 Places to Work since 2021

KZF Design is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to , , , , , or expression, , , , or veteran status.