On Call Urban Designer
About the Role
BERK Consulting is seeking an early-career Urban Designer (1–3 years of experience) to support impactful subarea planning and development code projects across Washington communities. This role focuses on advancing sustainable urban design through concept plans, 3D visualizations, and design frameworks that inform long-term public-sector decision-making.
You will contribute to a range of projects from community visioning and subarea plans to design standards and code updates, working closely with an interdisciplinary team of planners, designers, and technical experts.
This is a Seattle-based hybrid role. While regular in-office attendance is not required, team members are welcome to work from the office as desired. In-person attendance is expected as needed for client meetings, project collaboration, and other business needs.
This is an on-call, project-based role with hours that vary based on client needs and project timelines.
Our Work
BERK’s Planning team partners with public-sector clients across Washington State to deliver comprehensive plans, subarea plans, and development regulations that help communities plan for equitable and sustainable growth.
Key Responsibilities
In this role, you will support client-facing work through design, analysis, and communication. Responsibilities include:
- Produce urban design graphics and visual materials for reports and presentations (e.g., subarea plans, concept alternatives, and development frameworks).
- Conduct research, data analysis, and design studies to inform concept and framework plans.
- Develop analytical diagrams, maps, and 2D/3D visualizations.
- Prepare design documentation and presentation materials.
- Revise drawings and deliverables based on team and client feedback.
- Participate in community engagement activities, including workshops and charrettes.
- Clearly communicate design concepts to a range of stakeholders.
- Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams, including planners, economic/financial analysts and transportation specialists.
Minimum Qualifications
- Associate degree or current enrollment in a bachelor’s degree program in urban planning, urban design, architecture, landscape architecture, or a related field
- 1–3 years of professional and/or academic experience in urban design, planning, architecture, or a related field.
- Experience producing 2D/3D graphics, models, and concept-level design work at the neighborhood, district, or site scale.
- Proficiency with design and graphics tools such as Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign), SketchUp, and Microsoft Office.
- Strong design communication skills, including the ability to convey ideas through drawings and graphics.
- Experience preparing reports, and presentation materials.
- Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines.
- Strong written, analytical, and verbal communication skills.
Desired Skills and Experience
While not required, the following will strengthen your application:
- Current enrollment in or completion of a master’s degree in urban planning, urban design, architecture, landscape architecture, or a related field.
- Familiarity with Washington State planning frameworks (e.g., comprehensive plans, subarea plans, development codes).
- Knowledge of urban design principles, land use, and development patterns (including housing and mixed-use typologies).
- Strong graphic and visual storytelling skills, including hand sketching.
- Experience supporting or leading public presentations for diverse audiences.
- Ability to work independently in a remote or hybrid environment.
- Experience in ArcGIS
How To Apply
Interested candidates should apply using the application form and include the following:
- Resume
- Cover letter describing your relevant experience and why you are interested in working at BERK
- 2–3 examples of your urban design work, with a brief explanation of each project, your role, and the tools or methods used.
QUESTIONS OR SUPPORT. We are committed to fostering an inclusive and accessible hiring process. If you require accommodations at any stage of the application, interview, or hiring process, please contact us at careers@berkconsulting.com.
For all other questions, please refer to the job posting for guidance.
EQUITY IN HIRING. We believe our mission is strongest when driven by the leadership and contributions of individuals from diverse backgrounds, beliefs, and cultures. Building an inclusive organization that reflects the diversity of our region is a top priority. We are committed to recruiting and mentoring staff from all cultures, races, ethnicities, religions, genders, national origins, ages, abilities, sexual orientations, gender identities, military statuses, and other protected groups. We welcome and encourage applicants from all walks of life to join us in making a meaningful impact.
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