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Is being an urban or regional planner a good fit for you?

Plans how towns, cities and regions use land and buildings, such as for homes, parks, shops and roads.

What the work involves

  • Designs, promotes or runs government plans on land use, housing, public services and transport.
  • Advises planning officials on whether projects are workable, good value and follow the rules.
  • Prepares reports and maps on land use, such as maps showing population density.
  • Holds public meetings with officials, developers, lawyers and community groups to discuss land use and community plans.

The interests that suit it

People in this work tend to be curious and persuading. Here is how much each of the six kinds of interest comes into it.

Hands-onLow. Building, fixing, and working with tools, machines, animals or the outdoors.
CuriousStrong. Finding things out, solving problems, and working with ideas and data.
CreativeLow. Making things: art, writing, music, design and performance.
HelpingLow. Teaching, caring for and supporting people.
PersuadingSome. Leading, selling, and making the calls.
OrganisingSome. Keeping things in order: records, numbers and systems.

What it tends to reward

Compared with other work, this job stands out for:

  • Belonging. People who look out for each other, and a manager who has your back.
  • Mastery. Getting really good at something over time.
  • Security. Steady work in a well-run organisation.

How much training it needs

Degree required. Usually a degree, sometimes more study after. Rules differ from country to country, so check locally before you commit.

Find out if it fits you

Answer quick questions about what you like doing and what keeps you going. We match you with roles from over 900 kinds of work, and you can see if an urban or regional planner is one of yours.

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