Welcome to CUPPA Careers!

The College of Urban Planning and Public Affairs at UIC is the University of Illinois System's home for the study of public policy and contemporary urban challenges. We are CUPPA.

In the heart of Chicago, we offer degrees in fields of study that can change your life and change the world. CUPPA students and alumni are uniquely skilled to build and transform sustainable urban neighborhoods and communities and to address the challenges presented in the 21st century. Find our more about our Bachelors, Masters, and Doctorate degrees at cuppa.uic.edu.

Follow our job postings below and our national job tweets at @CUPPACareers. For student internships and student opportunities, head to the CUPPA Student Opportunities Blog

Have a job or internship to post? Send an email with the title, location, job description, and contact information to cuppa@uic.edu

Young Lawyer Society Administrative Director, The Chicago Bar Association - Chicago, IL

POSITION: YLS Administrative Director 
DEPARTMENT: YLS 
REPORTS TO: Executive Director 

POSITION SUMMARY: Manage and supervise YLS committees and activities to ensure the goals and purposes of the Section are met. Coordinate multi-faceted events such as Law Week, Moot Court Competition, Pro Bono and Community Service Fair, Chair Orientation and YLS Annual Meeting. Assist in development and implementation of nearly fifty public service and projects and provide ongoing support
Job ID:23406656
Position Title:YLS Administrative Director
Company Name:The Chicago Bar Association
Location(s):The Chicago Bar Association, Illinois, 60604, United States  
Posted:April 23, 2015
Entry Level:No
Job Type:Full-Time
Education, training, experience: 

REQUIREMENTS: 
Education: College Degree 
Experience: 2-5 years association experience; supervisory experience preferred 
Other: Excellent oral and written communication skills. Ability to manage multiple tasks. Keen attention to details, accuracy and timeliness. Professional attitude, appearance and behavior. Ability to interact with other employees as well as members.

Senior Project Planner, NYC Department of Parks & Recreation - New York City, NY

Senior Project Planner

Apply Now

Company:NYC Department of Parks & Recreation

Location:New York City, NY

Date Posted:April 23, 2015

Industry: Government – NYC Parks
Salary: $65,000 - $70,000 plus excellent benefits
Title: Senior Project Planner

The Planning & Parklands Division is home to the Parks Department’s land use, environmental, master planning, special projects and real estate project functions.  The division represents the Agency’s involvement in complex planning and development initiatives, environmental reviews and land use matters. It facilitates the creation of plans for new and existing parks, and it advises on funding strategies and grants.  In doing so, the Division is at the forefront of the Agency’s open space agenda.  It is responsible for communicating agency goals and policies and advancing plans for a vibrant and sustainable park system that meets the recreational, social and environmental needs of our City.
MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Under general direction, with latitude for independent initiative and judgment, manage the development of a capital needs assessment system, including data collection, reconciliation and analysis; additional best practices research; consultant procurement and management; and coordination with other departments and the Office of Management and Budget (OMB). 
  • Design and conduct research projects that expand the tools for measuring the impact of open space for improving quality of life outcomes.
  • Research, analyze, frame and document opportunities for new projects that advance the Agency’s open space agenda. 
  • Develop master plans and implement a community-engagement process for larger destination parks. 
  • Perform due diligence to support open space acquisitions, improved waterfront access and an expanded citywide greenway network. 
  • Prepare high-level maps, graphics, and related materials for strategic initiatives, presentations and master planning documents. 
  • Prepare briefing materials, project schedules and budgets, grant applications, correspondence and other materials necessary to advance project planning and implementation.
  • Deliver presentations and represent the Agency at project meetings, interagency planning meetings and external conferences.  Negotiate and advocate on behalf of Parks.
QUALIFICATIONS REQUIREMENTS
  1. A baccalaureate degree from an accredited college and four years of satisfactory, full-time progressively responsible clerical/administrative experience requiring independent decision-making concerning program management or planning, allocation of resources and the scheduling and assignment of work, 18 months of which must have been in an administrative, managerial, executive or supervisory capacity.  The supervisory work must have been in the supervision of staff performing clerical/administrative work of more than moderate difficulty; or
  2. An associate degree or 60 semester credits from an accredited college and five years of satisfactory, full-time progressively responsible experience as described in “1” above, 18 months of which must have been in an administrative, managerial, executive or supervisory capacity.  The supervisory work must have been in the supervision of staff performing clerical/administrative work of more than moderate difficulty; or
  3. A four-year high school diploma or its educational equivalent and six years of satisfactory, full-time progressively responsible experience as described in “1” above, 18 months of which must have been in an administrative, managerial, executive or supervisory capacity.  The supervisory work must have been in the supervision of staff performing clerical/administrative work of more than moderate difficulty; or
  4. Education and/or experience equivalent to “1”, “2” or “3” above.  However, all candidates must possess the 18 months of administrative, managerial, executive or supervisory experience as described in “1”, “2” or “3” above.  Education above the high school level may be substituted for the general clerical/administrative experience (but not for the administrative, managerial, executive or supervisory experience described in “1”, “2” or “3” above) at a rate of 30 semester credits from an accredited college for 6 months of experience up to a maximum of 3 ½ years.

Residency in New York City, Nassau, Orange, Rockland, Suffolk, Putnam or Westchester counties required for employees with over two years of city service.  New York City residency required for all other candidates.
PREFERRED SKILLS/QUALIFICATIONS
  1. A master’s degree in urban planning or related field.
  2. Strong quantitative and problem-solving skills. Ability to critically interpret and present quantitative information and translate abstract ideas into actionable strategies.   
  3. Solid project management skills, including ability to meet deadlines, multi-task without compromising work quality and be detail-oriented.
  4. A self-starter with the ability to think independently and conduct an open-minded investigation of complex problems. 
  5. Excellent interpersonal, listening, writing and verbal skills. 
  6. Strong graphics and mapping skills. Proficiency with Microsoft Office. 
  7. A valid New York State driver license.

Apply by 5/08/15:
1) Go to www.nyc.gov/careers/search   
2) Search for Job ID#: 190735

For details about NYC Parks: www.nyc.gov/parks

Urban Planner / Designer, Code Studio - Austin, TX

Urban Planner / Designer

Code Studio 
Professional Area: 
Architecture
Landscape Architecture
Urban Design
Experience: 
1-3 years
Contact person: 
Colin Scarff

Email: 
colin@code-studio.com
Location: 
AustinTX



Are you passionate about your work? Enthusiastic, self-motivated and highly-skilled? You may be just the person we’re looking to hire. Code Studio is an Austin-based planning consulting firm that focuses on plan implementation, and is known for its elegant, visual plans, zoning and form-based codes.
We’re looking for a new planner/graphic designer to participate as part of our team. The ideal candidate would communicate well both through their work and in the office. They will bring their experience in planning, architecture, landscape architecture or urban design to our work in communities across the country. We need immediate graphic design support including the creation of 3-D building and urban design models, and preparation of highly visual documents and elegant maps. We anticipate moving this person into an associate-level position over time.
The successful candidate will have:
  • A Bachelor’s Degree in Architecture, Landscape Architecture, Urban Design or Planning (Master’s Degree and work experience preferred);
  • Strong graphic design skills, with an advanced knowledge of InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop and SketchUp;
  • Working knowledge of GIS;
  • Excellent document writing and editing skills;
  • Ability to manage multiple tasks, clients and other consultants effectively; and
  • Strong analytical skills, including the ability to conduct independent research and analysis.
Compensation is negotiable, but will include health care, paid time off and paid holidays, as well as the possibility of an annual bonus.
Interested applicants should apply to: colin@code-studio.com. Please include, attach or link to the following items in your email: cover letter, resume, salary requirements, and your portfolio/work samples. No calls please. Your cover letter must answer the questions below to be considered:
  • What excites you about our company?
  • What tasks would you see yourself conducting on behalf of the firm?
  • What key assets do you bring to the firm?
  • What challenges do you anticipate in working with the firm?
Code Studio is an equal opportunity employer.

Policy Analyst - Regional Economy, Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning - Chicago, IL

Policy Analyst - Regional Economy

Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning
Professional Area: 
Economic Planning and Development
Experience: 
1-3 years
Contact person: 
Catherine Holland Hatcher

Phone: 
312-386-8772
Email: 
chollandhatcher@cmap.illinois.gov
Location: 
ChicagoIL




The Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning (CMAP) is seeking to hire a Policy Analyst.  CMAP is the official regional planning organization for the northeastern Illinois counties of Cook, DuPage, Kane, Kendall, Lake, McHenry, and Will.  CMAP developed and now guides the implementation of metropolitan Chicago's comprehensive regional plan, GO TO 2040, which was adopted unanimously by leaders from across the seven counties in fall 2010.  To address anticipated population growth of more than 2 million new residents, GO TO 2040 establishes coordinated strategies that help the region’s 284 communities address transportation, housing, economic development, open space, the environment, and other quality-of-life issues.  See www.cmap.illinois.gov  for more information.
Position Description
The ideal candidate for this position will demonstrate a broad base of knowledge about the interactions between infrastructure, land use, public policy, and overall regional economic development.  The GO TO 2040 plan recommends bolstering the region's economic advantages by nurturing its industry clusters.  Since the plan was released, CMAP has contributed significant new research on the challenges and opportunities facing the freight/logistics and manufacturing industry clusters, as well as the competitive advantages offered by the dual concentration of these clusters.  CMAP also provides insight into the health of the region’s economy through a set of indicators and will publish ongoing analysis related to these economic metrics. 
The policy analyst position will be responsible for assisting the agency in implementing GO TO 2040's recommendations related to economic innovation and industry clusters by collecting and analyzing data, managing research, and producing reports and issue briefs. In addition, this position will support activities for monitoring and providing agency direction on federal, state and local public policy, and for communicating and coordinating with the agency's partners on issues that affect the regional economy and business attraction and retention.  In this work, the policy analyst will be expected to emphasize the recommendations of GO TO 2040 and work collaboratively with other entities to set regional priorities.
Essential Functions:
Collect and analyze data on the regional economy, including a focus on regional industry clusters, transportation infrastructure, and economic indicators.
Write reports and issue briefs that explain data trends and their potential impact on changes in federal, state, or local public policy.
Identify challenges and opportunities facing the region’s industry clusters, with a focus on labor supply and demand, workforce development, public policy, infrastructure, and technology.
Manage or support agency projects that analyze and report on the issues facing northeast Illinois industry clusters (particularly freight, logistics, and manufacturing).
Present work to relevant CMAP committees and participate in regional groups on these issues as they affect metropolitan Chicago.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing on issues of public policy and planning.
Excellent data management skills and the ability to manipulate and analyze large data sources, as well as the ability to generate findings from these data and present results.
Demonstrated skills with microcomputer databases, spreadsheets, and ArcGIS geographic information systems.
Demonstrated ability to lead complex research projects and produce reports and issue briefs that are factual, original, compelling and persuasive.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills and the ability to complement existing projects via independent or team-based work.
Demonstrated knowledge of economic issues and the role metropolitan regions play in overall economic growth and sustainability. 
Ability to apply microeconomic theory and empirical evidence toward practical purposes, and a demonstrated interest in the complex connections between transportation, development, and the metropolitan economy. 
Familiarity with the governance structure of northeastern Illinois.
Education and/or Experience:
A Master’s degree in Public Policy, Planning, Economics, Public Administration or a related field is required.  
Prior work experience in a related field is preferred.
Ability to work effectively in an environment using Microsoft Windows and Microsoft 
Office products, with adaptability to other software.
Contact Information
Send resume, cover letter, and contact information with Job Code: (PARE032)
Mail:
Human Resources
CMAP: Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning
233 S. Wacker Drive, Suite 800 Chicago, IL 60606
Emailed resumes will receive an auto receipt.  Position open until filled. The Chicago
Metropolitan Agency for Planning is an Equal Opportunity Employer

Housing Research Analyst, Sage Computing - Reston, VA

Housing Research Analyst

Sage Computing
Professional Area: 
Housing
Experience: 
1-3 years
Location: 
RestonVA

Immediate opening for a junior to mid-level Research Analyst/Writer with strong research and writing experience. Responsibilities include conducting qualitative research and writing on various housing related topics.
Qualifications:
·        A Master’s degree in Public Policy, Planning, Economics, Public Administration or a related field is required;
·         Strong empirical skills;
·         Interest in public policy/community development/housing;
·         Strong skills in academic style writing;
·         Works effectively in teams; and
·         Conducts research with attention to detail and schedule.
Job is located in Reston, VA. Send your resume, cover letter, and a writing sample to resume@sagecomputing.com or fax to 703 742 7889.

Planner I/II/III, Del Norte County - Crescent City, CA

Planner I/II/III

Del Norte County
Experience: 
3-5 years
Contact person: 
Kathy Westbrook
Phone: 
707-464-7213
Email: 
kwestbrook@co.del-norte.ca.us
Location: 
Crescent CityCA
BEGINNING BIWEEKLY SALARY:  
Planner I:         $1,391.29
Planner II:        $1,572.37
Planner III:       $1,733.54
County pays a portion of the employee share of retirement contributions and offers health care benefits for employees.
JOB OPPORTUNITY AND APPLICATION: There is currently one vacancy for the position of Planner I/II/III in the Del Norte County Community Development Department. This recruitment will establish an eligibility list that may be used for future vacancies or temporary help for up to one year.  Applications are available at the Del Norte County Human Resources, 981 H Street, Suite 250, Crescent City, CA 95531, (707) 464-7213, or at website, www.co.del-norte.ca.us.  A standard application is required.  Resumes are encouraged, but will not be accepted in lieu of required application materials.  Applications, which are incomplete as of the final date to apply, will be eliminated from consideration. Applications will be accepted until 5:00 p.m. on Monday, May 18, 2015.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES:
Planner I:Prepares detailed reports for projects of varying difficulty including minor subdivisions, coastal development permits, use permits, re-zoning, boundary adjustments and land use amendments.  Collects and organizes field and office data used to develop staff reports pertaining to the County’s planning program.  Reviews a variety of reports and studies developed by other agency professionals related to private and public projects for accuracy, completeness and consistency with County and State standards.  Researches and interprets County and State regulations related to County planning programs and projects that may include biological assessments.  Recommends policies, regulations, and other actions to the Planning Department, Board of Supervisors, and other County agencies regarding planning activities and programs.  Attends and participates in various meetings and hearings to present technical information related to planning projects.  Writes letters, memoranda, progress reports, and other documents to staff, outside agencies, and the general public in order to define, clarify, and report information regarding planning activities, functions, policies, and procedures.  Serves as an information source by providing planning related information to the public in general, applicants and other interested parties.  Performs related duties as assigned.
Planner II:Assembles, collects, documents, and interprets data pertaining to the physical, social, and economic characteristics of the community.  Writes various technical and staff reports regarding the status and potential use of County land.  Researches specific planning and zoning assignments.  Recommends policies, procedures, and other actions to various County agencies regarding County planning.  Evaluates information and presents reports on site plan reviews, variances, and other zoning applications.  Assists in studies of land use and design of advance plans.  Develops statistics and engages in research preparatory to various phases of planning.  Reviews environmental impact reports in conjunction with developmental projects.  Performs graphic work in connection with planning projects.  Provides a variety of planning and zoning information to developers, property owners, other City departments, and the public.  Attends meetings and conferences as required.
Planner III:Writes staff reports related to County planning such as environmental impact analyses, zoning and subdivision proposals, County ordinances and resolutions, etc.  Compiles and organizes information used to develop land use and planning reports.  Conducts on site inspections of County land to obtain field data required for County planning and zoning. Prepares oral reports and graphic presentations to the County Planning Commission and Board of Supervisors.  Presents oral reports and graphic presentations to theCountyPlanningcommission and Board of Supervisors.  Monitors the progress of special projects ordered by the Board of Supervisors regarding County planning matters.  Assists and advises County agencies, the general public and other interested parties regarding the regulations, policies, and procedures pertaining to planning and zoning.  Writes letters of response or inquiry to governmental agencies, members of the general public, and other interested parties regarding questions, clarifications and problems of the Planning Department. Represents planning division at Environmental Review Committee hearings.  Reviews various journals, reports, and other written material in order to stay abreast of the current methods and legal requirements of County planning and zoning.  Attends out-of-town meetings, hearings, and conferences on behalf of the County.  Acts as planning department head in the absence of the Director.

Environmental Planner/GIS Specialist, Meridian Consultants - Westlake Village, CA

Environmental Planner/GIS Specialist

Meridian Consultants
Professional Area: 
Environmental and Natural Resources Planning
Information Technology / GIS
Experience: 
3-5 years
Contact person: 
Lisa Maturkanic

Email: 
lmaturkanic@meridianconsultantsllc.com
Location: 
Westlake VillageCA
Meridian Consultants is currently seeking an experienced Environmental Planner/GIS Specialist to join our team in Westlake Village, CA. The position is located is our Westlake Village office near the west San Fernando Valley. 

Job Responsibilities:
  • Assist with the preparation of Initial Studies, Negative Declarations, Mitigated Negative Declarations, Environmental Impact Reports, Environmental Assessments, Environmental Impact Statements, and other comprehensive environmental documents involving all levels of CEQA/NEPA.
  • Provide background research for a variety of topics related to complex municipal planning projects and private land development projects.
  • Gather, analyze, and integrate spatial data from staff and determine how best the information can be displayed using GIS. Compile geographic data from a variety of sources. Analyze spatial data for geographic statistics to incorporate into documents and reports. Design and update database, applying additional knowledge of spatial feature representations. Enter new map data through use by direct input of coordinate information. Analyze geographic relationships among varying types of data. Prepare metadata and other documentation. Operate and maintain GIS system hardware, and software.
  • Interact with public agency and private client staff on all matters related to land use planning, CEQA/NEPA compliance, and land development/entitlements.
  • Promote a culture of teamwork, engagement, quality service, and customer satisfaction to our clients.
  • Enhance Meridian Consultants professional reputation and demonstrate the ability to be creative and innovative while representing Meridian Consultants in a professional manner.

Job Requirements
Education and Experience:
  • Possess a BA/BS degree in geography, environmental science, urban planning, or a related discipline; a Master’s degree is preferable. 
  • Qualified candidates should have least 3 years of experience working on a variety of environmental documentation projects related to urban development and infrastructure projects throughout Southern California, specifically the Los Angeles Basin, the Central Coast, Coachella Valley, and northern Los Angeles, and neighboring counties.

Skills and Abilities
  • The ideal candidate will have broad-based science- and planning-related background and experience with city and county local government and development-oriented projects. 
  • Should possess a background in GIS with “hands-on” experience using ArcGIS 10.3 or later or other similar software. This experience should include managing GIS data files, preparing GIS maps based maps and exhibits, converting coordinate data and other non-GIS data to appropriate GIS formats and projects, and working with project teams to understand how best GIS can be utilized.

Compensation and Benefits:
  • Meridian Consultants offers a competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits program that reflects our commitment to our employees.
  • Our benefits program include a profit sharing and 401(k) salary deferral plan, medical and dental insurance, vision care, paid vacation, sick leave, paid holidays, long term disability, and group life insurance.

  • Applicants must submit a resume with cover letter and salary history to be considered.
    For more information on Meridian Consultants, visit our website at www.meridianconsultantsllc.com.

Senior CEQA/NEPA Project Manager, Meridian Consultants - Westlake Village, CA

Senior CEQA/NEPA Project Manager

Meridian Consultants
Professional Area: 
Environmental and Natural Resources Planning
Experience: 
5-7 years
Contact person: 
Lisa Maturkanic

Email: 
lmaturkanic@meridianconsultantsllc.com
Location: 
Westlake VillageCA
Meridian Consultants is currently seeking an experienced CEQA/NEPA Project Manager to join our team in Westlake Village, CA. The position is located is our Westlake Village office near the west San Fernando Valley.

Summary
Meridian Consultants is seeking a CEQA/NEPA Project Manager with broad-based science- and planning-related background and experience with city and county local government and development-oriented projects. 

Job Responsibilities: 
  • Responsibilities will include overseeing multidisciplinary teams of professionals, including but not limited to architectural, engineering, air quality, biological, natural, and cultural resources; geology; land use; noise; traffic and transportation; recreation; and water resources.
  • Additional responsibilities will include assisting principals and other senior staff in the development of client proposals, making presentations, and conducting business development activities consistent with maintaining and growing our Southern and Central California presence.

Job Requirements
Education and Experience:
  • Qualified candidates should have least 5 years of experience, with at least 3 years of direct CEQA/NEPA project management experience overseeing complex environmental documentation projects related to urban development and infrastructure projects throughout Southern California, specifically the Los Angeles Basin, the Central Coast, Coachella Valley, and northern Los Angeles, and neighboring counties.
  • Candidates should have experience managing projects to stay on scope and meet budget requirements, as wells as meet regulatory requirements of the applicable local, state, and federal laws.
  • Bachelor’s degree in environmental science, urban planning, or a related discipline. 
  • A master’s degree is preferred. 

Skills and Abilities:
  • Candidates must possess effective problem-solving ability, excellent writing skills, and the ability to work with a team.
  • Candidates must also have experience in managing a variety of projects, and in interacting with clients.

Compensation and Benefits:
  • Meridian Consultants offers a competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits program that reflects our commitment to our employees. 
  • Our benefits program include a profit sharing and 401(k) salary deferral plan, medical and dental insurance, vision care, paid vacation, sick leave, paid holidays, long term disability, and group life insurance.

Applicants must submit a resume with cover letter and salary history to be considered.

For more information on Meridian Consultants, visit our website at www.meridianconsultantsllc.com