OPT Urban Planner Jobs
Urban Planner roles qualify as specialty occupations under OPT, typically requiring a degree in urban planning, public policy, or a related field. Most positions sit inside local government agencies or consulting firms that understand work authorization. Your 12-month OPT window is enough to complete a meaningful project cycle and demonstrate value before transitioning to H-1B visa sponsorship.
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Get Access To All JobsThe University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) appreciates your interest in employment. We ask that you keep in mind the following when completing your application:
- Once you start the application process you cannot save your work. Please ensure you have all required attachment(s) available to complete your application before you begin the process.
- Required attachments are listed below on the posting. Your application will not be considered without the required attachments.
- Please note that applications must be submitted prior to the close of the recruitment.
Once a recruitment has closed, applications will no longer be accepted. If you need assistance or have questions regarding the application process, please contact Human Resources at (702) 895-3504 or unlvjobs@unlv.edu.
Job Description
The University of Nevada, Las Vegas invites applications for the Lee Assistant/Associate Professor of Economics, Real Estate and Urban Economics (R0153553).
ROLE of the POSITION
The Molasky Family Department of Economics & Real Estate in the Lee Business School at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas invites applications for the Lee Assistant/Associate Professor in Economics with an emphasis in Real Estate and/or Urban Economics with an expected start date of Fall 2027. Preference will be given to candidates qualified for appointment at the advanced assistant professor or associate professor rank who have demonstrated the ability to publish high-quality research in real estate and/or urban economics. The department seeks a scholar whose research agenda will complement and extend existing departmental strengths and who demonstrates the ability to collaborate across the Lee Business School’s Centers of Excellence. In particular, the ideal candidate will be positioned to engage with and contribute to the Lied Center for Real Estate’s research and policy programs. Responsibilities of the position include conducting significant scholarly research leading to high-quality refereed publications in Economics and Real Estate enabling the incumbent to maintain an active program of research and publications appropriate for maintaining AACSB Scholarly academic qualifications at a Research 1 Carnegie Classification institution. Additional responsibilities include contributing to the Lee Business School’s research culture, and providing service to the department, school, university, and profession. The ideal candidate will also be expected to teach classes in service of the real estate degree offered by the department.
PROFILE of the COLLEGE
The Lee Business School at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) is one of the university’s largest schools, serving approximately 5,000 students, including about 4,500 undergraduate and 500 graduate students. The school offers 10 undergraduate and eight master’s programs across a broad range of business disciplines and is among the top 2 percent of business schools worldwide to hold dual AACSB accreditation in both business and accounting.
Lee Business School is home to four centers that connect faculty and students with business and industry: the Lied Center for Real Estate, the Troesh the Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation, the Center for Business and Economic Research (CBER), and the Kerestesi Center for Insurance and Risk Management. As part of UNLV, an R1 research university, Lee Business School benefits from its location in the dynamic Las Vegas economy and strong connections with the region’s business community.
PROFILE of the DEPARTMENT
The Molasky Family Department of Economics & Real Estate is the only named and endowed academic department at UNLV. The department is home to an active and growing faculty with broad research interests and particular strength in applied microeconomics. We offer undergraduate programs in economics and commercial real estate, as well as graduate programs focused on applied economics and quantitative analysis. The department is committed to excellence in research and teaching and provides strong support for faculty research and professional development.
BACKGROUND SCREENING
Employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a pre-employment criminal background and/or credit check.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
This position requires a Ph.D. in Economics, Finance, or related disciplines from an accredited college or university as recognized by the United States Department of Education and/or the Council on Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) and the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB). ABDs may be considered, but credentials must be obtained by August 1, 2027. Candidates considered for appointment at the assistant professor rank must demonstrate strong potential for sustained high-quality research, publication in leading academic journals, and high-quality teaching at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Candidates considered for appointment at the advanced assistant professor or associate professor rank must have an established record of sustained high-quality research and publication in leading academic journals commensurate with an advanced appointment, together with a demonstrated record of high-quality teaching at the undergraduate and graduate levels.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
Preferred qualifications include a research specialization in real estate and/or urban economics, with a sustained, forward-looking research agenda in these areas. Preference will be given to candidates whose research employs state-of-the-art empirical methodologies. Candidates whose research interests strengthen and complement the department’s existing areas of expertise and who demonstrate the potential to produce high-impact and externally visible research in real estate economics, urban economics, and related fields are especially encouraged. Candidates should also demonstrate the ability and/or interest to contribute to the continued development, research mission, and external visibility of the Lied Center for Real Estate. Additional preferred qualifications include demonstrated ability or interest in teaching undergraduate and graduate courses in real estate economics and/or finance, urban economics, and related areas, as well as the ability to contribute to the department’s broader teaching and graduate education missions.
COMMITMENT to DIVERSITY and CAMPUS VALUES
A successful candidate will support diversity, equity, and inclusiveness and contribute to a respectful, positive work environment. They will use our Campus Values to guide their decisions and actions and demonstrate our Rebel spirit.
SALARY
Salary competitive with those at similarly situated institutions. See published salary tables for economics professors by rank. The Lee Professorship provides an annual stipend of $25,000, paid in equal monthly installments, and $5,000 annually for research and travel support, which will be held in a designated account for use in accordance with university policies.
BENEFITS OF WORKING AT UNLV
- Competitive total rewards package including:
- Paid time off, sick leave, and holidays
- Excellent health insurance including medical, dental and vision
- Comprehensive retirement plans and voluntary benefits programs
- No state income tax
- Tuition discounts at Nevada System of Higher Education (NSHE) schools
- Tuition discounts for spouses, domestic partners, and dependents
PERKS & PROGRAMS
- Employee recognition and appreciation programs
- UNLV athletics ticket discounts
- Statewide employee purchase program discounts
- RebelCard discounts on and off campus
- Wellness programming for all UNLV faculty and staff at no cost
- Opportunity for career advancements to leadership roles
- Connect with colleagues with shared interests
- Personal and professional development opportunities
- A comprehensive onboarding program, Rebels: Onboard
- Support and resources available for veteran applicants — contact vetjobseekers@unlv.edu or visit our Veterans Webpage.
HOW TO APPLY
Submit a letter of interest, a detailed resume listing qualifications and experience, and the names, addresses, and telephone numbers of at least three professional references who may be contacted. References will not be contacted until the search chair notifies you in advance. Applicants should fully describe their qualifications and experience, with specific reference to each of the minimum and preferred qualifications.
Additionally, applicants should submit the following materials on the Job Openings for Economists’ (JOE) website https://www.aeaweb.org/joe/listings; a letter of interest, CV, job market paper, research statement, additional working papers (optional), and three reference letters. Applications will not be given consideration without submission of the required documentation to both UNLV, via Workday, and JOE, as described above.
Although this position will remain open until filled, review of candidates’ materials will begin on November 15, 2026, and best consideration will be gained for materials submitted prior to that date. We will conduct initial interviews remotely. Materials should be addressed to Dr. Nicholas Irwin, Search Committee Chair, and must be submitted through Workday and JOE, as we do not accept emailed materials.
Veterans are encouraged to apply. UNLV values the skills of those who have served. Learn more at Veterans Webpage or contact vetjobseekers@unlv.edu for support.
For assistance with the application process, please review instructions on How to Apply. For further assistance contact UNLV Human Resources at (702) 895-3504 or UNLVJobs@unlv.edu and include the job requisition number in your email subject line.
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS FOR INTERNAL NSHE CANDIDATES
Current UNLV and Nevada System of Higher Education (NSHE) employees must apply through Workday. Type Find Jobs in the Workday search bar or access the page directly here: JOB HUB.
Search for this position using the job requisition number R0153553.
To ensure your application is processed correctly, current UNLV and NSHE employees should apply internally through Workday. If you submit an application through the external careers site, you will be asked to reapply as an internal application, which may delay your application.
PROFILE of the UNIVERSITY
Founded in 1957, UNLV is a doctoral-degree-granting institution comprised of approximately 30,000 students and more than 3,600 faculty and staff. To date, UNLV has conferred more than 152,000 degrees, producing more than 130,000 alumni around the world. UNLV is classified by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching as an R1 research university with very high research activity, and is a recipient of the Carnegie Classification for Community Engagement. The university is committed to recruiting and retaining top students and faculty, educating the region's diversifying population and workforce, driving economic activity through increased research and community partnerships, and creating an academic health center for Southern Nevada that includes the launch of a new UNLV School of Medicine. UNLV is located on a 332-acre main campus and two satellite campuses in Southern Nevada.
Here at UNLV, we have come together and created one of the most affirmative and dynamic academic environments in the country. UNLV sits in the top spot in U.S. News & World Report's annual listing of the nation's most diverse universities for undergraduates. The university has ranked in the top ten since the rankings debuted more than a decade ago. We continue to show our commitment to serving our wonderfully diverse population and building the future for Las Vegas and Nevada.
EEO/AA STATEMENT
The University of Nevada - Las Vegas (UNLV) is committed to providing a place of work and learning free of discrimination on the basis of a person’s age (40 or older), disability, whether actual or perceived by others (including service-connected disabilities), gender (including pregnancy related conditions), military status or military obligations, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, national origin, race (including hair texture and protected hairstyles such as natural hairstyles, afros, bantu knots, curls, braids, locks and twists), color, or religion (protected classes). Discrimination on the basis of a protected class, including unlawful harassment, which is a form of discrimination, is illegal under federal and state law. Where unlawful discrimination is found to have occurred, UNLV will act to stop the unlawful discrimination, to prevent its recurrence, to remedy its effects, and to discipline those responsible. Women, minorities, and veterans are encouraged to apply.
TITLE IX STATEMENT
The University of Nevada, Las Vegas, does not discriminate on the basis of sex in any education program or activity that it operates. Non-discrimination on the basis of sex is mandated by Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 (20 U.S.C. §§ 1681 et seq.) and the corresponding implementation regulations (34 C.F.R. Part 106). The University’s commitment to nondiscrimination in its education programs and activities extends to applicants for admission and employment. Inquiries concerning the application of these provisions may be referred to: Michelle Sposito, J.D., Title IX Coordinator, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, 4505 S. Maryland Parkway, Mail Stop 1062, Las Vegas, NV 89154-1062, Campus Services Building (CSB) Room 159, Telephone: (702) 895-4055; Email: titleixcoordinator@unlv.edu, or to The Assistant Secretary of the United States Department of Education, U.S. Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights, 400 Maryland Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C. 20202-1100; Telephone: 1-800-421-3481 FAX: 202-453-6012; TDD: 1-800-877-8339; Email: OCR@ed.gov; or to both.
Information pertaining to the University’s grievance procedures and grievance process, including how to report or file a complaint of sex discrimination, how to report or file a formal complaint of sexual harassment, and how the University will respond can be found online at the Office of Equal Employment & Title IX webpage.
SAFETY AND SECURITY STATEMENT
UNLV is committed to assisting all members of the UNLV community in providing for their own safety and security. The Annual Security Report and Annual Fire Safety Report compliance document is available online.
JOB CATEGORY
Academic Faculty
Exempt
Yes
Full-Time Equivalent
100.0%
Required Attachment(s)
Submit a letter of interest, a detailed resume listing qualifications and experience, and the names, addresses, and telephone numbers of at least three professional references who may be contacted. References will not be contacted until the search chair notifies you in advance. Applicants should fully describe their qualifications and experience, with specific reference to each of the minimum and preferred qualifications.
Posting Close Date
01/31/2027
Note to Applicant
This position may require that a criminal background check be conducted on the candidate(s) selected for hire.
HR will attempt to verify academic credentials upon receipt of hiring documents. If the academic credentials cannot be verified, HR will notify the faculty member that an official transcript of their highest degree must be submitted within thirty days of the faculty member’s first day of employment.
References will be contacted at the appropriate phase of the recruitment process.
As part of the hiring process, applicants for positions in the Nevada System of Higher Education may be required to demonstrate the ability to perform job-related tasks.
For positions that require driving, evidence of a valid driver's license will be required at the time of employment and as a condition of continued employment.
All document(s) must be received on or before the closing date of the job announcements (if a closing date is provided).
Recruitments that provide a work schedule are subject to change based on organizational needs.
The University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) appreciates your interest in employment. We ask that you keep in mind the following when completing your application:
- Once you start the application process you cannot save your work. Please ensure you have all required attachment(s) available to complete your application before you begin the process.
- Required attachments are listed below on the posting. Your application will not be considered without the required attachments.
- Please note that applications must be submitted prior to the close of the recruitment.
Once a recruitment has closed, applications will no longer be accepted. If you need assistance or have questions regarding the application process, please contact Human Resources at (702) 895-3504 or unlvjobs@unlv.edu.
Job Description
The University of Nevada, Las Vegas invites applications for the Lee Assistant/Associate Professor of Economics, Real Estate and Urban Economics (R0153553).
ROLE of the POSITION
The Molasky Family Department of Economics & Real Estate in the Lee Business School at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas invites applications for the Lee Assistant/Associate Professor in Economics with an emphasis in Real Estate and/or Urban Economics with an expected start date of Fall 2027. Preference will be given to candidates qualified for appointment at the advanced assistant professor or associate professor rank who have demonstrated the ability to publish high-quality research in real estate and/or urban economics. The department seeks a scholar whose research agenda will complement and extend existing departmental strengths and who demonstrates the ability to collaborate across the Lee Business School’s Centers of Excellence. In particular, the ideal candidate will be positioned to engage with and contribute to the Lied Center for Real Estate’s research and policy programs. Responsibilities of the position include conducting significant scholarly research leading to high-quality refereed publications in Economics and Real Estate enabling the incumbent to maintain an active program of research and publications appropriate for maintaining AACSB Scholarly academic qualifications at a Research 1 Carnegie Classification institution. Additional responsibilities include contributing to the Lee Business School’s research culture, and providing service to the department, school, university, and profession. The ideal candidate will also be expected to teach classes in service of the real estate degree offered by the department.
PROFILE of the COLLEGE
The Lee Business School at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) is one of the university’s largest schools, serving approximately 5,000 students, including about 4,500 undergraduate and 500 graduate students. The school offers 10 undergraduate and eight master’s programs across a broad range of business disciplines and is among the top 2 percent of business schools worldwide to hold dual AACSB accreditation in both business and accounting.
Lee Business School is home to four centers that connect faculty and students with business and industry: the Lied Center for Real Estate, the Troesh the Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation, the Center for Business and Economic Research (CBER), and the Kerestesi Center for Insurance and Risk Management. As part of UNLV, an R1 research university, Lee Business School benefits from its location in the dynamic Las Vegas economy and strong connections with the region’s business community.
PROFILE of the DEPARTMENT
The Molasky Family Department of Economics & Real Estate is the only named and endowed academic department at UNLV. The department is home to an active and growing faculty with broad research interests and particular strength in applied microeconomics. We offer undergraduate programs in economics and commercial real estate, as well as graduate programs focused on applied economics and quantitative analysis. The department is committed to excellence in research and teaching and provides strong support for faculty research and professional development.
BACKGROUND SCREENING
Employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a pre-employment criminal background and/or credit check.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
This position requires a Ph.D. in Economics, Finance, or related disciplines from an accredited college or university as recognized by the United States Department of Education and/or the Council on Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) and the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB). ABDs may be considered, but credentials must be obtained by August 1, 2027. Candidates considered for appointment at the assistant professor rank must demonstrate strong potential for sustained high-quality research, publication in leading academic journals, and high-quality teaching at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Candidates considered for appointment at the advanced assistant professor or associate professor rank must have an established record of sustained high-quality research and publication in leading academic journals commensurate with an advanced appointment, together with a demonstrated record of high-quality teaching at the undergraduate and graduate levels.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
Preferred qualifications include a research specialization in real estate and/or urban economics, with a sustained, forward-looking research agenda in these areas. Preference will be given to candidates whose research employs state-of-the-art empirical methodologies. Candidates whose research interests strengthen and complement the department’s existing areas of expertise and who demonstrate the potential to produce high-impact and externally visible research in real estate economics, urban economics, and related fields are especially encouraged. Candidates should also demonstrate the ability and/or interest to contribute to the continued development, research mission, and external visibility of the Lied Center for Real Estate. Additional preferred qualifications include demonstrated ability or interest in teaching undergraduate and graduate courses in real estate economics and/or finance, urban economics, and related areas, as well as the ability to contribute to the department’s broader teaching and graduate education missions.
COMMITMENT to DIVERSITY and CAMPUS VALUES
A successful candidate will support diversity, equity, and inclusiveness and contribute to a respectful, positive work environment. They will use our Campus Values to guide their decisions and actions and demonstrate our Rebel spirit.
SALARY
Salary competitive with those at similarly situated institutions. See published salary tables for economics professors by rank. The Lee Professorship provides an annual stipend of $25,000, paid in equal monthly installments, and $5,000 annually for research and travel support, which will be held in a designated account for use in accordance with university policies.
BENEFITS OF WORKING AT UNLV
- Competitive total rewards package including:
- Paid time off, sick leave, and holidays
- Excellent health insurance including medical, dental and vision
- Comprehensive retirement plans and voluntary benefits programs
- No state income tax
- Tuition discounts at Nevada System of Higher Education (NSHE) schools
- Tuition discounts for spouses, domestic partners, and dependents
PERKS & PROGRAMS
- Employee recognition and appreciation programs
- UNLV athletics ticket discounts
- Statewide employee purchase program discounts
- RebelCard discounts on and off campus
- Wellness programming for all UNLV faculty and staff at no cost
- Opportunity for career advancements to leadership roles
- Connect with colleagues with shared interests
- Personal and professional development opportunities
- A comprehensive onboarding program, Rebels: Onboard
- Support and resources available for veteran applicants — contact vetjobseekers@unlv.edu or visit our Veterans Webpage.
HOW TO APPLY
Submit a letter of interest, a detailed resume listing qualifications and experience, and the names, addresses, and telephone numbers of at least three professional references who may be contacted. References will not be contacted until the search chair notifies you in advance. Applicants should fully describe their qualifications and experience, with specific reference to each of the minimum and preferred qualifications.
Additionally, applicants should submit the following materials on the Job Openings for Economists’ (JOE) website https://www.aeaweb.org/joe/listings; a letter of interest, CV, job market paper, research statement, additional working papers (optional), and three reference letters. Applications will not be given consideration without submission of the required documentation to both UNLV, via Workday, and JOE, as described above.
Although this position will remain open until filled, review of candidates’ materials will begin on November 15, 2026, and best consideration will be gained for materials submitted prior to that date. We will conduct initial interviews remotely. Materials should be addressed to Dr. Nicholas Irwin, Search Committee Chair, and must be submitted through Workday and JOE, as we do not accept emailed materials.
Veterans are encouraged to apply. UNLV values the skills of those who have served. Learn more at Veterans Webpage or contact vetjobseekers@unlv.edu for support.
For assistance with the application process, please review instructions on How to Apply. For further assistance contact UNLV Human Resources at (702) 895-3504 or UNLVJobs@unlv.edu and include the job requisition number in your email subject line.
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS FOR INTERNAL NSHE CANDIDATES
Current UNLV and Nevada System of Higher Education (NSHE) employees must apply through Workday. Type Find Jobs in the Workday search bar or access the page directly here: JOB HUB.
Search for this position using the job requisition number R0153553.
To ensure your application is processed correctly, current UNLV and NSHE employees should apply internally through Workday. If you submit an application through the external careers site, you will be asked to reapply as an internal application, which may delay your application.
PROFILE of the UNIVERSITY
Founded in 1957, UNLV is a doctoral-degree-granting institution comprised of approximately 30,000 students and more than 3,600 faculty and staff. To date, UNLV has conferred more than 152,000 degrees, producing more than 130,000 alumni around the world. UNLV is classified by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching as an R1 research university with very high research activity, and is a recipient of the Carnegie Classification for Community Engagement. The university is committed to recruiting and retaining top students and faculty, educating the region's diversifying population and workforce, driving economic activity through increased research and community partnerships, and creating an academic health center for Southern Nevada that includes the launch of a new UNLV School of Medicine. UNLV is located on a 332-acre main campus and two satellite campuses in Southern Nevada.
Here at UNLV, we have come together and created one of the most affirmative and dynamic academic environments in the country. UNLV sits in the top spot in U.S. News & World Report's annual listing of the nation's most diverse universities for undergraduates. The university has ranked in the top ten since the rankings debuted more than a decade ago. We continue to show our commitment to serving our wonderfully diverse population and building the future for Las Vegas and Nevada.
EEO/AA STATEMENT
The University of Nevada - Las Vegas (UNLV) is committed to providing a place of work and learning free of discrimination on the basis of a person’s age (40 or older), disability, whether actual or perceived by others (including service-connected disabilities), gender (including pregnancy related conditions), military status or military obligations, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, national origin, race (including hair texture and protected hairstyles such as natural hairstyles, afros, bantu knots, curls, braids, locks and twists), color, or religion (protected classes). Discrimination on the basis of a protected class, including unlawful harassment, which is a form of discrimination, is illegal under federal and state law. Where unlawful discrimination is found to have occurred, UNLV will act to stop the unlawful discrimination, to prevent its recurrence, to remedy its effects, and to discipline those responsible. Women, minorities, and veterans are encouraged to apply.
TITLE IX STATEMENT
The University of Nevada, Las Vegas, does not discriminate on the basis of sex in any education program or activity that it operates. Non-discrimination on the basis of sex is mandated by Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 (20 U.S.C. §§ 1681 et seq.) and the corresponding implementation regulations (34 C.F.R. Part 106). The University’s commitment to nondiscrimination in its education programs and activities extends to applicants for admission and employment. Inquiries concerning the application of these provisions may be referred to: Michelle Sposito, J.D., Title IX Coordinator, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, 4505 S. Maryland Parkway, Mail Stop 1062, Las Vegas, NV 89154-1062, Campus Services Building (CSB) Room 159, Telephone: (702) 895-4055; Email: titleixcoordinator@unlv.edu, or to The Assistant Secretary of the United States Department of Education, U.S. Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights, 400 Maryland Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C. 20202-1100; Telephone: 1-800-421-3481 FAX: 202-453-6012; TDD: 1-800-877-8339; Email: OCR@ed.gov; or to both.
Information pertaining to the University’s grievance procedures and grievance process, including how to report or file a complaint of sex discrimination, how to report or file a formal complaint of sexual harassment, and how the University will respond can be found online at the Office of Equal Employment & Title IX webpage.
SAFETY AND SECURITY STATEMENT
UNLV is committed to assisting all members of the UNLV community in providing for their own safety and security. The Annual Security Report and Annual Fire Safety Report compliance document is available online.
JOB CATEGORY
Academic Faculty
Exempt
Yes
Full-Time Equivalent
100.0%
Required Attachment(s)
Submit a letter of interest, a detailed resume listing qualifications and experience, and the names, addresses, and telephone numbers of at least three professional references who may be contacted. References will not be contacted until the search chair notifies you in advance. Applicants should fully describe their qualifications and experience, with specific reference to each of the minimum and preferred qualifications.
Posting Close Date
01/31/2027
Note to Applicant
This position may require that a criminal background check be conducted on the candidate(s) selected for hire.
HR will attempt to verify academic credentials upon receipt of hiring documents. If the academic credentials cannot be verified, HR will notify the faculty member that an official transcript of their highest degree must be submitted within thirty days of the faculty member’s first day of employment.
References will be contacted at the appropriate phase of the recruitment process.
As part of the hiring process, applicants for positions in the Nevada System of Higher Education may be required to demonstrate the ability to perform job-related tasks.
For positions that require driving, evidence of a valid driver's license will be required at the time of employment and as a condition of continued employment.
All document(s) must be received on or before the closing date of the job announcements (if a closing date is provided).
Recruitments that provide a work schedule are subject to change based on organizational needs.
See all OPT Urban Planner Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new OPT Urban Planner Jobs.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding OPT Sponsorship as an Urban Planner
Target government and quasi-public employers first
Municipal planning departments, regional transit authorities, and metropolitan planning organizations file H-1B visa petitions regularly. These employers have established HR processes for work authorization and are less likely to withdraw offers due to sponsorship uncertainty than smaller private firms.
Highlight GIS and data analysis skills prominently
Urban planners who can run spatial analysis in ArcGIS or QGIS, build traffic models, or analyze census datasets are harder to replace. Technical depth strengthens your case for sponsorship because it signals specialized expertise that justifies the cost and administrative effort for employers.
Frame your OPT timeline around project milestones
Hiring managers in planning agencies think in project cycles. If your OPT authorization runs 12 months, connect that window to deliverables: a general plan amendment, an EIR comment period, or a rezoning study. This reframes authorization timing as a project asset, not a liability.
Pursue AICP candidacy status early
The American Institute of Certified Planners candidate designation signals professional commitment and is achievable without full licensure. Listing it on your resume reassures employers that you are building toward long-term practice in the U.S. and take the profession seriously beyond your current visa status.
Use STEM OPT extension if your degree qualifies
Urban planning degrees granted under CIP codes in computer science, geographic information science, or related STEM-designated fields may qualify for the 24-month STEM OPT extension. Confirm your degree classification with your DSO before assuming eligibility, as this significantly extends your authorized work window.
Bring a portfolio of community engagement work
Planning employers value documented public process experience, not just technical output. A portfolio showing public meeting facilitation, stakeholder outreach campaigns, or equity-focused planning initiatives differentiates you from candidates with similar GIS skills and makes sponsorship conversations easier to initiate with hiring managers.
Urban Planner OPT: Frequently Asked Questions
Do Urban Planner roles qualify as specialty occupations for H-1B sponsorship?
Yes. Urban planning consistently qualifies as a specialty occupation because the role typically requires at minimum a bachelor's degree in urban or regional planning, public policy, or a closely related field. USCIS has a history of approving H-1B petitions for planners, particularly when the position involves zoning analysis, environmental review, or transportation modeling that demands field-specific academic training.
How can I find Urban Planner employers who sponsor OPT and H-1B visas?
Migrate Mate filters Urban Planner job listings to show employers with a documented history of sponsoring work visas, which saves you from applying to roles where sponsorship is unavailable. Government agencies, regional planning commissions, and large consulting firms such as AECOM, WSP, and Kimley-Horn appear regularly in these listings because they have the HR infrastructure to support visa petitions.
Does my urban planning degree qualify for the STEM OPT extension?
It depends on your specific degree classification, not just the program name. Some universities award urban planning degrees under STEM-designated CIP codes, particularly when the program emphasizes geographic information systems, data analysis, or transportation engineering. Check your degree's CIP code with your Designated School Official before making any work authorization decisions, as eligibility varies significantly by institution and program structure.
Can I work as an Urban Planner for a local government agency on OPT?
Yes. Local government agencies are among the most common employers for OPT urban planners and are generally familiar with work authorization requirements. City planning departments, county development offices, and regional transportation agencies routinely hire international graduates. Government positions often align well with OPT timelines because hiring cycles are structured and H-1B sponsorship decisions are made through established administrative processes rather than ad hoc.
What happens to my OPT status if my Urban Planner role ends before my authorization period expires?
F-1 OPT students have a 60-day grace period after employment ends before their status is affected. During those 60 days you can begin a new job search, accept a new offer, or transfer to a new visa status. The new position must also fall within your authorized field of study. Reporting any employment change to your DSO promptly is required to keep your SEVIS record accurate and your status valid.