Urban Development Planner Job Vacancy in Mbarara, Uganda – Construction & Infrastructure

Job Description

Position: Urban Development Planner

Company: Mbarara City Council

Location: Mbarara, Uganda

Experience: Minimum 5 years in urban planning, infrastructure development, or related fields

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Urban Planning, Architecture, Civil Engineering or related discipline; Master’s preferred

Employment Type: Full-time

Industry: Construction & Infrastructure

Department: Planning & Development

Salary: SSP 2,500,000 – SSP 4,000,000 per month

Vacancies:1

Company Overview

Mbarara City Council is the governing authority responsible for the strategic development, service delivery, and regulatory oversight of Mbarara, one of Uganda’s fastest‑growing urban centres. With a commitment to sustainable urbanisation, the Council collaborates with national ministries, private developers, and community stakeholders to create livable, resilient, and economically vibrant environments. As a key player in Uganda’s construction and infrastructure sector, the Council offers a dynamic platform for professionals seeking to shape the future of urban development in Uganda. This role contributes directly to the Council’s vision of a modern, inclusive city that supports employment, housing, and quality of life for its residents, reinforcing the Council’s reputation as a premier employer for career opportunities in Uganda.

Job Overview

The Urban Development Planner will lead the planning, design, and implementation of citywide infrastructure projects, including roads, public spaces, housing schemes, and utilities. Working closely with the Planning & Development Department, the role involves conducting feasibility studies, preparing master plans, and ensuring compliance with national building codes and environmental regulations. The successful candidate will act as a liaison between the Council, private contractors, and international donors, translating strategic objectives into actionable plans that drive sustainable growth. For more information on similar opportunities, visit Uganda Jobs Search. This position is a cornerstone of the Council’s effort to attract top talent and support Uganda Jobs, Jobs in Uganda, and Job Vacancy in Uganda initiatives.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and update comprehensive urban master plans that align with regional development strategies and national policies.
• Conduct site analyses, land use assessments, and environmental impact studies for new infrastructure projects.
• Coordinate multi‑disciplinary teams, including engineers, architects, and environmental specialists, to ensure integrated project delivery.
• Prepare detailed project proposals, cost estimates, and timelines for submission to funding agencies and government bodies.
• Monitor implementation progress, evaluate performance metrics, and recommend corrective actions to meet project milestones.
• Engage with community groups, NGOs, and private sector partners to incorporate stakeholder feedback into planning processes.
• Ensure all plans comply with Uganda’s Urban Planning Act, building codes, and sustainability standards.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior planners and interns within the department.

Required Skills

• Strong analytical and spatial planning abilities, with proficiency in GIS and CAD software.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills for report preparation and stakeholder engagement.
• Project management expertise, including budgeting, scheduling, and risk assessment.
• In‑depth knowledge of Ugandan land tenure systems, zoning regulations, and environmental legislation.
• Ability to work collaboratively in multidisciplinary teams and manage external consultants.
• Strategic thinking with a focus on sustainable, inclusive urban growth.

Education

A Bachelor’s degree in Urban Planning, Architecture, Civil Engineering, or a closely related field is mandatory. Candidates holding a Master’s degree or professional certifications such as Certified Urban Planner (CUP) are highly preferred. Continuous professional development through workshops, seminars, or accredited courses is encouraged to stay current with emerging trends in construction, smart city technologies, and climate‑resilient design.

Experience

Applicants must possess a minimum of five years of progressive experience in urban planning, infrastructure development, or related disciplines within the public or private sector. Experience managing large‑scale municipal projects, securing funding from development partners, and navigating complex regulatory environments will be considered a distinct advantage.

Salary

The role offers a competitive salary range of SSP 2,500,000 to SSP 4,000,000 per month, commensurate with experience and qualifications. The compensation package reflects the Council’s commitment to attracting top talent and supporting career growth in Uganda’s construction and infrastructure arena.

Benefits

• Health insurance covering medical, dental, and vision care.
• Pension scheme contributions aligned with national regulations.
• Annual leave entitlement of 30 days plus public holidays.
• Professional development allowance for certifications and conferences.
• Transportation allowance for site visits and fieldwork.

Training

• On‑boarding program covering Council policies, planning tools, and stakeholder engagement protocols.
• Access to continuous learning platforms for GIS, BIM, and sustainable design.
• Mentorship from senior planners and senior management.
• Opportunities to attend regional workshops on urban resilience and smart city initiatives.

Working Environment

The Urban Development Planner will operate from the Council’s modern headquarters in Mbarara, with regular field visits to project sites across the district. The role offers a collaborative office culture that values innovation, transparency, and community impact. Flexible working arrangements may be considered to support work‑life balance, especially during intensive project phases.

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit an online application through the Council’s recruitment portal, attaching a detailed CV, cover letter, and copies of relevant certifications. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and shortlisted candidates will be invited for a competency‑based interview followed by a technical assessment. The Council encourages early applications to ensure timely consideration for this high‑impact role.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Mbarara City Council is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees, regardless of gender, ethnicity, disability, or background. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment in line with Uganda’s labor laws and international best practices.