Computational Urban Designer Intern

We Are

KPF is a leading architecture and master planning firm designing projects of various scales around the world. Our mission as architects is to transform cities through context, craft, and performance.

The KPF Urban Interface (KPFui) team advances this mission through computation, data, and measurable performance. We build the computational tools and data workflows that connect rigorous urban analysis to design action, helping project teams understand what to design, why it matters, and how to make it better. Our work spans performance-based design, urban data analytics, and software development, operating across KPF's global projects and offices.

Role Description

As an intern, you will gain direct exposure to KPF’s practices by using geospatial data analysis and visualization to shape our design and planning strategies. This is a hands-on role for someone interested in research that informs public policy and looking to build practical expertise in computational urban design. Your work will focus on two primary areas:

Research and Mapping Initiatives

• Support internal urban research initiatives and external collaborations with city agencies.
• Develop maps and visualizations to uncover spatial patterns and inform broader planning strategies.
• Translate complex technical analysis into clear, accessible narratives that empower non-technical clients to make informed decisions.

Project Support

• Run our internal urban data pipelines and scripts to generate actionable insights.
• Support architecture and urban design teams with targeted geospatial analysis across a wide range of active projects.

Required Experience and Skills

Essential:

• Experience with GIS software (QGIS or equivalent) and familiarity with core vector operations.
• Experience with data visualization in any tool or environment.
• Ability to communicate complex analysis through strong graphic representation.
• Currently pursuing a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Architecture, Urban Design, Urban Planning, or a related field.

Bonus:

• Familiarity with public urban datasets (e.g., open city data portals, census data).
• Experience with Python scripting and/or any other coding languages.
• Git fluency and experience working in a collaborative development environment.

Work Environment:

This position requires you to be in person in our New York office 5 days per week.

Pay Range:

Why KPF?

KPF’s mission is to elevate cities through impactful design, collaborating closely with the world’s most forward-thinking clients to create high performing, carefully crafted buildings that are unique to their physical, social, and environmental contexts.

• Career Growth: Opportunities for training, development, and career progression.

• Company Culture: Collaborative, high-performance environment with a focus on innovation and excellence.

• Benefits: Comprehensive health insurance, including medical, dental, and vision insurance, 401k with company matching contributions, paid time off and other perks.

To Apply:

Applications submitted without a resume will not be considered.

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KPF is an equal opportunity employer.