What's Happening?
Ensis Corp, a nationally recognized AEC firm, is actively recruiting an Intermediate Urban Planner to join its Orange County Planning Team in California. The position is 100% onsite and requires 3-5 years of relevant professional planning experience,
specifically in residential and multifamily planning. The successful candidate will support residential and mixed-use projects from initial visioning and site planning through entitlement approvals. This includes exposure to a diverse range of projects, from low-density communities to high-density multifamily and podium developments. Key responsibilities involve preparing site plans, conceptual planning studies, density/yield studies, diagrams, and exhibits. The role also requires supporting master planning, land planning, neighborhood, and mixed-use development studies, as well as researching zoning, General Plans, development standards, and land-use requirements. Proficiency in AutoCAD, SketchUp, Adobe Creative Suite, and Microsoft Office is essential.
Why It's Important?
This job opening signifies continued growth in the urban planning and development sector within Orange County, California, particularly in residential and mixed-use projects. The demand for an experienced urban planner indicates ongoing construction and development activities, which contribute to local economic growth and job creation. The focus on residential and multifamily planning addresses the critical need for housing in California, a state facing significant housing shortages. The role's involvement in projects ranging from low-density to high-density developments suggests a comprehensive approach to urban expansion and densification, which is crucial for sustainable urban development. For the AEC firm, securing skilled planners is vital for maintaining its competitive edge and delivering complex projects, impacting the firm's ability to contribute to the built environment and regional infrastructure. The compensation range of $90k-$110k highlights the value placed on experienced professionals in this field.
What's Next?
Ensis Corp will proceed with the recruitment process, interviewing candidates who meet the specified qualifications, including a Bachelor’s degree in Urban Planning, Landscape Architecture, Architecture, or Urban Design, and 3-5 years of relevant experience. The selected Intermediate Urban Planner will integrate into the Orange County Planning Team, collaborating with architects, landscape architects, designers, and development teams. This hire will enable Ensis Corp to continue supporting its diverse portfolio of residential and mixed-use projects, from early concept and feasibility stages through entitlement. The ongoing demand for such roles suggests that urban development in Orange County, particularly in the housing sector, is expected to remain robust, potentially leading to further job opportunities in related fields as projects advance from planning to construction.
Beyond the Headlines
The requirement for an Intermediate Urban Planner with strong residential and multifamily planning experience underscores the evolving landscape of urban development in California. As urban areas become denser, the complexity of integrating various land uses and ensuring sustainable growth increases. This role is critical in navigating the intricate balance between development pressures, environmental considerations, and community needs. The emphasis on skills like AutoCAD and SketchUp highlights the increasing reliance on advanced technological tools in urban planning for visualization and analysis. Furthermore, the collaboration with architects, landscape architects, and development teams reflects a multidisciplinary approach to urban design, where integrated planning is essential for creating functional, aesthetically pleasing, and resilient communities. This trend towards comprehensive, technologically-driven urban planning is likely to shape future urban environments across the U.S.
