Urban Design

With years of specialist recruitment experience and a passion for providing honest and efficient service to our clients and candidates alike, Ignis Partners have grown to become one of the leading Urban Design Recruitment Agencies in the UK.

Our clients include a range of planning, landscape and architectural design studios through to multi-disciplinary companies with impressive portfolios of both UK and International projects.

Roles within Urban Design

We recruit for a wide range of positions and job titles within Urban Design, including:

  • Graduate Urban Designer

  • Junior Urban Designer

  • Assistant Urban Designer

  • Senior Urban Designer

  • Head of Urban Design

Latest Urban Design Jobs

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Associate Urban Designer
London
,
London
United Kingdom
Salary
Rate
£55,000+
Permanent

Friendly, medium sized practice, offering interesting and complex projects with a focus on collaboration and contextual understanding

Hybrid
Hybrid working offered
Remote working offered

The Role

Our client is a friendly, medium‑sized practice based in central London, renowned for its cross‑disciplinary expertise in urban design, masterplanning, conservation, and structural engineering. They take on complex, context‑driven projects that shape towns and cities, collaborating closely with long‑term clients and committing to a high quality of design while maintaining a healthy work–life balance.

They are seeking an Associate Urban Designer to join their Urbanism team. The right candidate will step into a leadership position and help drive the firm’s town and community planning work. This is a fairly urgent hire, and we welcome candidates at Associate level (or senior professionals with 10+ years’ career experience, including a strong urban design background).

Key Responsibilities

  • Design Leadership: Lead the preparation of masterplans, high‑level visions, and outline planning applications (drawings & reports).
  • Graphic & Design Development: Shape the firm’s urban design graphics and presentation standards to reflect emerging best practice.
  • Business Development: Secure new projects by preparing tender responses, fee proposals, and developing client relationships.
  • Project Management: Oversee urban design projects end‑to‑end—managing fees, programmes, and coordinating sub‑consultants.
  • Client Engagement: Deliver presentations to clients and stakeholders.
  • Team Mentoring & Training: Contribute to in‑house training, mentor junior staff, and participate in firm‑wide learning events.      

Key Requirements:

  • Experience: Minimum 10 years’ career experience, with several years specifically in urban design or masterplanning.
  • Qualifications: Relevant design qualification (e.g., Architecture, Landscape Architecture); a Master’s is desirable but not mandatory.
  • Project Portfolio: UK‑based town & community planning projects - ranging from small landscape schemes to major city‑extension masterplans.
  • Technical Skills: Proficiency in AutoCAD and Adobe Creative Suite; familiarity with UK planning and design guidance.
  • Background: Candidates may come from architecture, landscape, conservation, or senior masterplanning roles - so long as you bring solid urban‑design expertise.
  • Collaborative Spirit: Proven ability to work across multi‑disciplinary teams (transport, conservation, structures) in a collaborative environment.   

Why Join?

  • Competitive Salary: Starting at £55k+, plus an annual discretionary bonus.
  • Generous Leave: 25 days’ holiday plus bank holidays (33 days total).
  • Professional Support: Paid professional subscriptions & exam fees; contribution to study or qualification costs.
  • Health & Wellbeing: Life insurance and workplace pension.
  • Office Culture: Three complimentary lunches per week; travel allowance for site visits and research.
  • Flexible Working: Office‑based preferred, with hybrid/flexible working arrangements to suit role demands.
  • Career Progression: Clear path to Senior Associate and Company Director roles, with high Director engagement and mentoring.
  • Training & Development: Comprehensive in‑house training scheme plus external bursaries for professional development.
  • Collaborative Environment: Work in a friendly, design‑focused team on high‑impact, long‑term projects.

 

This is an excellent opportunity to join our client’s forward-thinking Urbanism team and play a leading role in shaping the future of towns and cities across the UK.

50000
60000
Urban Designer
Southampton
,
South East
United Kingdom
Salary
Rate
£40,000 - £45,000
Permanent

Award-winning, established Architecture & Urbanism Studio.

Hybrid
Hybrid working offered
Remote working offered

What is your role:

We are leading recruitment for a great Urban Designer/Architect role to join a creative team of 50 and well-established, award-winning firm with 45 years of expertise.

This is an exciting opportunity for someone passionate about shaping high-quality, sustainable places that promote community and well-being.

In this role, you’ll work on a diverse range of projects, including masterplans, urban layouts, outline applications, and design codes. You will also contribute to character assessments, feasibility studies, development briefs, and detailed design guidance. Alongside collaborating with the wider team, you’ll manage small to mid-sized projects, mentor junior team members, and play a key role in delivering large strategic masterplans.

  

What makes you good at your job:

  • At least 3+ years of UK-based experience in an architectural or urban design practice, focusing on residential and mixed-use projects.
  • A Master’s degree in urban design, ideally with a background in architecture (other relevant backgrounds considered based on portfolio and experience).
  • A strong portfolio showcasing creative design and excellent graphic skills.
  • Outstanding communication skills, both written and verbal, to collaborate effectively with teams, clients, and stakeholders.
  • Strong problem-solving abilities with a practical approach.
  • Proficient in InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator, AutoCAD, and/or SketchUp for rendering and visualizations.
  • Good hand-drawing skills are an advantage.
  • Ability to manage workload and deadlines effectively while staying calm and focused under pressure.
  • A proactive mindset with a willingness to learn, share knowledge, and a genuine passion for professional growth.  

The Company:

Offering an attractive package tailored to reward your skills and experience, including a competitive salary, flexible hybrid working (two days a week from home), and 21 days holiday + bank holidays. Enjoy extra perks like a Christmas shutdown, Royal London pension scheme, employee discounts, cycle-to-work scheme, and eye-care support. Valuing growth, with promotion opportunities, a strong CPD programme, and regular social events. They provide a great work-life balance and a collaborative environment designed to help you thrive!

40000
45000
Urban Designer
Bristol
,
South West
United Kingdom
Salary
Rate
£40,000 - £45,000
Permanent

Award-winning, established Architecture & Urbanism Studio.

Hybrid
Hybrid working offered
Remote working offered

What is your role:

We are leading recruitment for a great Urban Designer/Architect role to join a creative team of 50 and well-established, award-winning firm with 45 years of expertise.

This is an exciting opportunity for someone passionate about shaping high-quality, sustainable places that promote community and well-being.

In this role, you’ll work on a diverse range of projects, including masterplans, urban layouts, outline applications, and design codes. You will also contribute to character assessments, feasibility studies, development briefs, and detailed design guidance. Alongside collaborating with the wider team, you’ll manage small to mid-sized projects, mentor junior team members, and play a key role in delivering large strategic masterplans.

  

What makes you good at your job:

  • At least 3+ years of UK-based experience in an architectural or urban design practice, focusing on residential and mixed-use projects.
  • A Master’s degree in urban design, ideally with a background in architecture (other relevant backgrounds considered based on portfolio and experience).
  • A strong portfolio showcasing creative design and excellent graphic skills.
  • Outstanding communication skills, both written and verbal, to collaborate effectively with teams, clients, and stakeholders.
  • Strong problem-solving abilities with a practical approach.
  • Proficient in InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator, AutoCAD, and/or SketchUp for rendering and visualizations.
  • Good hand-drawing skills are an advantage.
  • Ability to manage workload and deadlines effectively while staying calm and focused under pressure.
  • A proactive mindset with a willingness to learn, share knowledge, and a genuine passion for professional growth.  

The Company:

Offering an attractive package tailored to reward your skills and experience, including a competitive salary, flexible hybrid working (two days a week from home), and 21 days holiday + bank holidays. Enjoy extra perks like a Christmas shutdown, Royal London pension scheme, employee discounts, cycle-to-work scheme, and eye-care support. Valuing growth, with promotion opportunities, a strong CPD programme, and regular social events. Located conveniently near the M5 with free onsite parking, they provide a great work-life balance and a collaborative environment designed to help you thrive!

40000
45000
Senior Urban Designer
London
,
London
United Kingdom
Salary
Rate
£45,000 - £55,000
Permanent

Rare opportunity with this global architecture & design practice, working on both UK and International Projects.

Hybrid
Hybrid working offered
Remote working offered

The Client:

Join a globally recognised architecture firm with a strong presence in the UK, Europe, and the US,offering an unparalleled opportunity to be part of an award-winning international design team committed to sustainable excellence. The London office, known as a leader in professional design services, specialises incorporate interiors, strategic workplace consultancy, new build architecture, urban design, planning development, and hospitality.

With hundreds of annual award-winning projects, our client ranks among the top global design firms,boasting 2,500 employees across 24 offices worldwide. Renowned for sustainable innovation and expertise, they are industry leaders in research and design tools.

Enjoy a host of enticing benefits, including two days of remote work per week, alongside life insurance,health insurance, income protection, travel insurance, professional development opportunities, wellness initiatives, specialist training, tech schemes, and more.

Main responsibilities:

Preferred candidates typically possess 7-10 years of experience, with a proven track record in managing complex planning projects from inception to successful completion, particularly within the EMEA region.

Responsibilities:

  • Conduct thorough research, analysis, and assessments to drive strategic planning decisions.
  • Analyze sites, programs, regulations, and policies using quantitative and qualitative methods.
  • Execute advanced development calculations adhering to specified standards and proposed controls.
  • Coordinate sub-consultant activities and oversee project deliverables independently.
  • Ensure quality assurance and quality control of project documents.
  • Prepare and submit comprehensive planning applications, reports, and appeals.
  • Liaise with local governments, public officials, and stakeholders throughout the planning process.
  • Participate in client and public discussions and presentations, demonstrating teamwork and initiative.
  • Provide mentorship and guidance to junior team members.
  • Stay updated on evolving planning regulations, policies, and urban development trends in the UK.     

Qualifications and Skills:

  • In-depth understanding of planning legislation,policies, and procedures, with a successful track record in planning approvals and project delivery.
  • Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities to address complex planning issues effectively.  

Software Proficiency:

  • Proficient in Microsoft Office suite and standard GIS packages.
  • Functional knowledge of analytical tools such as ArcGIS and presentation tools like InDesign/PowerPoint.
  • Desirable expertise in Adobe Suite (Illustrator,Photoshop) and familiarity with CAD or Rhino Design software.     

Education and Certifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in urban design, landscape architecture, geography, or related discipline required.
  • MRTPI / MRICS qualification with relevant PQE experience in planning/development.
  • Desirable: Sustainability accreditation or professional accreditation aligned with the company's sustainability framework within 6 months of hire.     

45000
55000
Graduate Town Planner / Town Planning Technician
Reigate
,
South East
United Kingdom
Salary
Rate
£18,000 - £22,000
Permanent

Award-winning Planning and Architecture practice with a rich history spanning over 30 years

Hybrid working offered
Remote working offered

About:

Our client is an established, award-winning Planning and Architecture practice with a rich history spanning over 30 years. They are committed to designing high-quality buildings and spaces that enhance the built environment. Their diverse portfolio of projects includes everything from householder extensions to residential redevelopment, refurbishments, and conversions, changes of use, commercial development, educational facilities, leisure spaces, and masterplanning.

 

Position Overview:

They are currently seeking a dedicated and enthusiastic Graduate Town Planner / Town Planning Technician to join their dynamic team. You will have the opportunity to work on a wide range of exciting projects and gain invaluable experience in the field of town planning and urban development.

 

Key Responsibilities:

  • Collaborate with experienced planners, planning technicians, architects, and architectural technicians on various projects.
  • Assist in the preparation of planning applications, appeals, and reports, including the drafting of formal reports, design & access statements, and planning related correspondence.
  • Conduct research on planning policies and regulations as well as completing Development Appraisal Checklists
  • Attend site visits and client meetings.
  • Stay updated with the latest developments in planning policy at a national, regional, and local level.  

     

What Our Client Offers:

  • A supportive and collaborative team of qualified professionals.
  • Excellent opportunities for professional growth and development.
  • A track record of a 100% success rate in helping team members achieve professional qualifications.
  • Exposure to a diverse range of projects, from residential to commercial to masterplanning.
  • A welcoming and inclusive work environment.
  • Competitive compensation and benefits.

  

Qualifications & Experience:

  • A degree in Town Planning or a related field (e.g. Geography) is desirable, although graduates from other fields will also be considered.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Research and analytical abilities.
  • Enthusiasm for the field of town planning and urban development.
  • The ability to work well in a team and independently.
  • Knowledge of planning policies and regulations is a plus, but not essential.

   

18000
22000
Urban Designer
Manchester
,
North West
United Kingdom
Salary
Rate
£27,500 - £30,000
Permanent

Opportunity to join an award winning, AJ100 listed architectural practice where you will be working on range of exciting projects.

Hybrid
Hybrid working offered
Remote working offered

Wonderful opportunity for Diploma or post graduate qualified Urban Designer to work for an established and award winning Architecture firm with an exceptional reputation, projects and staff retention.  

The practice is looking for talented Urban Designer to help run small projects or work within a project team on larger urban design projects.

You will be expected to establish and document project requirements clearly whilst managing work a of urban design assistants.

The role:

  • Mentor and advise urban design assistants
  • Develop good relationships with clients and external consultants
  • Coordinate design work as necessary
  • Produce accurate design and technical drawings
  • Maintain clients awareness of QM processesincluding project qualify plans
  • Attend and contribute to studio meetings andpractice wide meetings
  • Assist with urban design bids and submissions    

This role would suit ambitious Urban designer who is happyto manage and mentor junior team members and become integral part of thepractice.

In return there is hybrid working, benefits and great company culture.

27500
30000