Urban Design and Resilience Research Strategist

SmithGroup JJR is seeking an Urban Design and Resilience Research Strategist in Ann Arbor, MI. The role involves applying research to inform inclusive design solutions, mentoring staff, developing client relationships, and conducting transdisciplinary research. Candidates should have a Master's or PhD in a related field and at least 10 years of relevant experience. The position offers a competitive benefits package, including flexible scheduling and a hybrid work environment.
Working with us, you will:
• Bring rigor and innovation to inform place-based, goal-oriented, and responsive design solutions that are more inclusive, comprehensive, and adaptive by recognizing and respecting diverse experiences and forms of expertise.
• Apply research knowledge, skills, and experience by consulting on project work, including data collection and analysis efforts, spatial and statistical analytical integration, climate risk assessments, stakeholder mapping, planning, and post-occupancy evaluations.
• Mentor staff in applying research insights and support project management responsibilities for new research initiatives, coordinating support staff schedules, progress, and priorities.
• Develop client relationships and foster the development of grants to fund design and planning approaches to supporting resilience, equity, and sustainability in project work.
• Collaborate with markets, project teams, clients, and stakeholders to communicate relevant research, articulate planning options, develop adaptive scenarios and expand revenue opportunities through grant-funded and research-driven dollars.
• Build our capacity to conduct transdisciplinary research, knowledge co-production, and community-based participatory research throughout the firm.

An ideal candidate has:
• A Master of Science in urban planning, urban design, landscape architecture, architecture, or related field of study – PhD preferred.
• Minimum 10 years of experience relevant research experience in a professional or academic work setting. Experience leading transdisciplinary research teams preferred.
• Working knowledge of graphic programs such as Microsoft Office Suite, statistical analysis software, and geospatial analysis tools (including ArcGIS).
• Behavioral expertise related to socioeconomic challenges related to climate change.

SmithGroup offers a competitive compensation and benefit package designed to meet the needs of a diverse staff, including flexible scheduling, a hybrid work environment, 401(k), parental leave, wellbeing resources, PTO immediately available to new hires, plus additional time off.

We encourage talented individuals to apply, even if they don't meet all the suggested qualifications. We provide one-on-one career coaching and professional development opportunities to build culture, enhance collaboration, and yield richer, more inclusive solutions.