UK Career Advice

Urban Planning Technician: Key Skills, Qualifications and Career Path

Career Overview
Interview Questions

What is a Urban Planning Technician?

Urban Planning Technicians assist urban planners in designing and mapping out the development of urban and rural areas to make sure they are functional, efficient and aesthetically pleasing. You'll be involved in creating technical drawings, performing site inspections, and helping with the research necessary for sustainable planning decisions.

How do I become a Urban Planning Technician?

Urban Planning Technicians assist urban planners in designing and mapping out the development of urban and rural areas to make sure they are functional, efficient and aesthetically pleasing. You'll be involved in creating technical drawings, performing site inspections, and helping with the research necessary for sustainable planning decisions.

What would you like to know?

What does it take to become an Urban Planning Technician?

Skills, education, personality, career progression

Job demand for an Urban Planning Technician

Job ads, popular location, season to apply



Skills

  • Proficiency in CAD software for drafting and designing urban plans
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to assess and address urban planning challenges
  • Knowledge of local planning regulations and policies to ensure compliance in urban development projects
  • Excellent communication and collaboration skills to work effectively with architects, engineers, and other stakeholders
  • Ability to conduct research and gather data to support urban planning decisions
  • Attention to detail and accuracy in creating and reviewing technical drawings and documentation
  • Understanding of sustainable design principles and the ability to incorporate them into urban planning projects
  • Time management and organizational skills to meet project deadlines and manage multiple tasks simultaneously
  • Flexibility and adaptability to navigate changing project requirements and evolving urban planning trends
  • Strong presentation skills to effectively communicate urban plans to clients, government officials, and the public

Qualifications & Education

  • GCSEs/S grades
  • BTEC/SQA award
  • Advanced GNVQ/GSVQ Level III
  • Degree
  • Professional qualifications (available)
  • Membership to professional institutions (may be required for some posts)

Career Path

Urban Planning Technician
Urban Planner
Senior Urban Planner
Urban Planning Manager
Director of Urban Planning
Transport Planner
Senior Transport Planner
Transport Planning Manager
Environmental Planner
Senior Environmental Planner
Environmental Planning Manager
Community Development Officer
Senior Community Development Officer
Community Development Manager
Housing Officer
Senior Housing Officer
Housing Manager

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I become an urban planner?

To become an urban planner in the UK, you need to have a college degree in urban and regional planning. A bachelor's degree is the minimum requirement, but it usually leads to assistant or junior planner positions. Most urban planners have a master's degree in urban planning.

What is an urban planning technician?

An urban planning technician is a professional who works in the field of real estate development, specifically in the area of urban planning. They typically work for a public agency and provide information and guidance to developers, homeowners, and businesspeople regarding zoning ordinances and other factors that may impact their building, renovation, or excavation projects.

What is the career path of a planner?

The career path of a planner in the UK can vary greatly. Many planners start out in entry-level positions such as dispatcher, manufacturing planner, or community planner. With experience and success, planners can progress to more senior roles or even executive-level positions such as purchasing manager or consultant.

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