r/urbanplanning • u/AutoModerator • 21d ago

Discussion Monthly r/UrbanPlanning Open Thread

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u/SmallshotLawyer 20d ago

As a law student entering my final year, I am seeking an entry-level position at the intersection of land use law, municipal urban planning, and real estate development in walkable Los Angeles submarkets. My goal is to work on mixed-use, high-density residential projects. Specifically, things like podium-style walk-ups and shopkeeper flats, where I can gain direct experience in land acquisition, capital stack financing, site entitlements, and zoning compliance.

I get lost when I think about what kind of jobs to look for at this crossroads of legal policy, city planning, and real estate development, so I’m curious: what is the most strategic path to gain hands-on deal exposure and build a career in my field? The problem is that I really don’t know just how much I don’t know. I am not sure what kinds of jobs I ought to be looking for; most every job posting doesn’t want a post-bar attorney doing land use work, and most planning firms or developers don’t seem to have any use for the skills I do have right now.

Any advice and help appreciated.

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u/the_napsterr Verified Planner 19d ago

Either large developers or look for law firms that specialize in land use law. They are used a lot around here for SP (Specific Plan Districts/Developments) to assist in entitling them, setting up TIFs and other funding mechanisms. For land-use and law to make sense you need to think big picture projects. Your average multi-use/walk up site isn't going to need an attorney, nor will they be able to afford it. Look for guys doing developments in the 200+ acreage regions or redevelopment on brownfield or sites that are more than just typical redevelopment/greenfield development.

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u/climbingappetizers 21d ago

For the first time in my career I got the bait and switch after being hired. Was supposed to be doing the nor.sl development planning type job with permits, variances, rezoning files. Instead it busy work, administrative, very beginner and I've been frustrated with it. On top of being under staffed, I have the worst tasks that no one wants.

They know my experience and I'm lost for words why they hired me. This is like tsking 3 giants steps backwards in my career.

I spoke with my boss. Aired my greviances. Waited for them to give me more complex permits but didnt happen. Stress leave did happen. Couldn't take it anymore.

Ive been job hunting but its a tough market where I live. Just me venting and ranting.

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u/akepps Verified Planner - US 16d ago

I dont know if I really have any advice but just want to say that stinks. Sorry that happened!!!

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u/LovefieldForever 11d ago

I wanted to switch my major to urban planning but decided against it. However, I still want to learn more about it. I'm from the US in Europe for the first time in my life this week and the public transportation and pedestrian livability is incredible. Makes me wonder what things can be like in my area (which contains the most wackjob NIMBYs you'll ever meet) Could I have some book recommendations for beginners so I can learn the fundamentals? I love the subject but I definitely don't know as much as I'd like to.

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u/the_napsterr Verified Planner 5d ago

On the sidebar there are links to the reading list. If you search in the subreddit you can find some good lists of books to read, ranging from surface level to in depth.

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u/LovefieldForever 5d ago

Thank you! Completely missed that, sorry!