Senior Urban Planner Job Vacancy in Lilongwe, Malawi – Government & Public Policy

August 5, 2026
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Job Description

Position: Senior Urban Planner

Company: Malawi Department of Urban Affairs

Location: Lilongwe, Malawi

Experience: 7+ years

Education: Master’s Degree in Urban Planning or Regional Development

Employment Type: Full-time

Industry: Government & Public Policy

Department: Urban Development & Infrastructure

Salary: 850,000 SSP – 1,200,000 SSP

Vacancies: 1

Company Overview

The Malawi Department of Urban Affairs is the primary regulatory body responsible for the sustainable development and management of urban centers across the nation. As the country undergoes rapid urbanization, our department plays a critical role in ensuring that cities remain livable, resilient, and economically vibrant. We focus on long-term spatial planning, infrastructure integration, and environmental sustainability to support the growing population. We are committed to creating organized urban environments that foster social equity and economic growth through strategic policy implementation and community engagement. Finding meaningful employment in Malawi is essential for national progress, and our department offers a stable and impactful career path for dedicated professionals.

Job Overview

We are seeking a highly skilled and visionary Senior Urban Planner to lead complex spatial development projects within the Lilongwe metropolitan area. This role is pivotal in shaping the future of our urban landscape, focusing on land use, transportation networks, and public utility integration. The successful candidate will work closely with government officials, private developers, and community stakeholders to ensure that all urban growth aligns with national development goals. This is a premier career opportunity in Malawi for an expert who can navigate the complexities of modern city planning while addressing the unique challenges of developing nations. For more information on local career paths, visit https://malawijobsearch.com.

Key Responsibilities

  • Lead the design and implementation of comprehensive master plans for urban expansion and revitalization projects.
  • Conduct detailed land-use analysis to optimize residential, commercial, and industrial zoning.
  • Coordinate with environmental agencies to ensure all urban developments adhere to strict sustainability and ecological protection standards.
  • Review and approve large-scale development proposals to ensure compliance with national zoning laws and building regulations.
  • Facilitate public consultation sessions to integrate community feedback into urban design processes.
  • Analyze demographic trends and economic data to forecast future infrastructure and service requirements.

Required Skills

  • Advanced proficiency in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and AutoCAD software.
  • In-depth knowledge of Malawi’s land tenure systems and urban planning legislation.
  • Exceptional project management and multi-stakeholder coordination abilities.
  • Strong analytical skills for interpreting complex spatial and demographic datasets.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills for policy reporting and public presentations.

Education

Candidates must possess a Master’s Degree in Urban Planning, Regional Development, Geography, or a closely related field. A Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering or Architecture with specialized postgraduate training in planning is also acceptable.

Experience

A minimum of 7 years of professional experience in urban planning, spatial design, or municipal management is required. Proven experience in working with government agencies or large-scale public infrastructure projects is highly desirable. Candidates should demonstrate a track record of managing complex projects from conception to completion.

Salary

The monthly salary for this position ranges from 850,000 SSP to 1,200,000 SSP, depending on the candidate’s expertise and previous experience in the field.

Benefits

  • Comprehensive health and life insurance coverage.
  • Generous annual leave and sick pay entitlements.
  • Pension scheme contributions and retirement planning support.
  • Professional development allowances for certifications and workshops.

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Training

  • Continuous professional development in advanced GIS technologies.
  • Leadership and public administration training modules.
  • Sustainability and climate resilience workshops.

Working Environment

The working environment is a professional office setting located in the heart of Lilongwe, with frequent site visits to various urban development zones. The role requires a balance of desk-based analytical work and field-based inspections. We offer a collaborative atmosphere where innovation in public policy is encouraged.

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit their updated CV and a cover letter detailing their relevant experience through our official recruitment portal. Please ensure all academic credentials are ready for verification upon request. This job vacancy in Malawi is part of our ongoing effort to hire the best talent for national development.

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Equal Opportunity Statement

The Malawi Department of Urban Affairs is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees regardless of race, religion, gender, or disability. We encourage all qualified individuals to apply for these career opportunities in Malawi.