Job Description
Senior Urban Designer
Location: London (Hybrid working options available)
Cobalt Recruitment is proud to be working with a progressive and collaborative planning and design consultancy that has earned a strong reputation for delivering sustainable, people-focused places. They are now seeking a talented and motivated Senior Urban Designer to join their London-based team. This is an exciting opportunity to work on high-profile masterplanning projects across the UK and play a leading role in shaping new communities.
The Role
The successful candidate will join a multidisciplinary strategic planning and urban design team delivering masterplans, vision documents, and design codes across a range of sectors including residential, commercial, and mixed-use developments. You'll collaborate closely with planners, architects, landscape architects, and developers to provide innovative design-led solutions from early concept through to planning submission.
Key Responsibilities:
* Lead and contribute to the preparation of site appraisals, vision documents, development frameworks, and illustrative masterplans.
* Prepare Design and Access Statements, design codes, parameter plans, and related reports for planning applications.
* Support local plan representations and site promotion work with high-quality graphics and written content.
* Mentor junior team members and provide design guidance across multiple projects.
* Collaborate effectively with internal and external project teams, including clients and stakeholders.
* Support business development through tender submissions and promotional materials.
* Attend client meetings, design reviews, and site visits as required.
About You
We're looking for someone who:
* Holds a postgraduate qualification in Urban Design, with an undergraduate degree in planning, architecture, or landscape architecture (preferred)
* Has a minimum of 5 years' relevant experience in urban design, ideally within a consultancy environment.
* Demonstrates excellent understanding of the NPPF, National Design Guide, and the Local Plan process.
* Possesses outstanding visual, written, and verbal communication skills.
* Is proficient in Adobe Creative Suite (InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop), AutoCAD, and SketchUp Pro.
* Is a proactive team player with the ability to manage projects and deadlines effectively.
* Has a strong portfolio showcasing work across visioning, masterplanning, and planning support.
* GIS, MicroStation, Vectorworks, or hand-drawing skills are desirable but not essential.
What's on Offer
* Competitive salary and performance-based bonus scheme.
* Flexible hybrid working arrangements to support work-life balance.
* 25 days annual leave (plus bank holidays) with the option to purchase more.
* 9% employer pension contribution, regardless of employee input.
* Wellbeing package, including a Health Cash Plan.
* Enhanced parental leave policies.
* Ongoing support for professional development and career progression within a collaborative environment.
How to Apply
If you're ready to take the next step in your career as a Senior Urban Designer and want to help shape a design-led, forward-thinking team, we'd love to hear from you. Please send your CV and covering letter to .
If you require any adjustments or additional support during the recruitment process, please let us know.
JBRP1_UKTJ