What do you do if you want a higher salary when transitioning into urban planning?

1 Assess your skills and interests

Before you jump into urban planning, you need to assess your current skills and interests, and how they align with the demands and opportunities of the field. Urban planning is a broad and interdisciplinary field that requires a mix of technical, analytical, creative, and communication skills. You might have some relevant skills from your previous education or work experience, such as data analysis, GIS, design, project management, or public engagement. You also need to identify what aspects of urban planning interest you the most, such as transportation, housing, sustainability, or community development. This will help you narrow down your focus and target your learning and networking efforts.

2 Pursue education and certification

Depending on your background and goals, you might need to pursue some formal education and certification to qualify for urban planning jobs. There are various options for learning urban planning, such as degree programs, diplomas, certificates, online courses, or workshops. You should research the requirements and preferences of the employers and sectors you are interested in, and choose the most suitable and affordable option for you. You should also consider getting certified by a professional association, such as the American Planning Association (APA) or the Canadian Institute of Planners (CIP), which can enhance your credibility and recognition in the field.

3 Build your portfolio and network

Another important step to transition into urban planning and increase your salary is to build your portfolio and network. Your portfolio is a collection of your work samples, such as reports, maps, designs, or presentations, that showcase your skills and achievements in urban planning. You can create your portfolio by working on real or hypothetical projects, volunteering for local organizations, participating in competitions, or creating your own blog or website. Your network is a group of people who can support your career development, such as mentors, peers, employers, or clients. You can build your network by attending events, joining groups, reaching out to contacts, or asking for referrals.

4 Negotiate your salary and benefits

Once you have secured an urban planning job offer, you need to negotiate your salary and benefits to get the best possible compensation. You should research the market rates and trends for urban planning jobs in your area, sector, and level of experience, and use them as a benchmark for your expectations and demands. You should also highlight your value and contributions to the employer, such as your skills, qualifications, achievements, or potential. You should also consider other aspects of your compensation package, such as bonuses, incentives, allowances, or perks, that can enhance your overall income and satisfaction.

5 Keep learning and growing

Finally, you need to keep learning and growing as an urban planner to advance your career and increase your salary. Urban planning is a dynamic and evolving field that requires continuous updating and adaptation of your knowledge and skills. You should seek feedback, mentorship, and coaching from your supervisors, colleagues, or peers, and identify your strengths and areas for improvement. You should also pursue opportunities for professional development, such as courses, workshops, webinars, or conferences, that can help you acquire new skills, insights, or credentials. You should also look for chances to take on more responsibilities, challenges, or leadership roles, that can demonstrate your capabilities and achievements.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?