Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Land Use • GIS • Master Plan

TOD

Term from Urban Planning industry explained for recruiters

TOD (Transit-Oriented Development) is an approach to city planning that creates walkable neighborhoods around public transportation hubs like train stations or bus terminals. Think of it as building mini-communities where people can live, work, and shop, all within walking distance of public transit. This planning style helps reduce car dependency, creates more vibrant neighborhoods, and makes efficient use of city space. When you see TOD mentioned in resumes or job descriptions, it refers to projects that combine housing, retail spaces, offices, and public areas near transit stations.

Examples in Resumes

Led design team for TOD project near downtown metro station, increasing residential capacity by 200 units

Developed zoning recommendations for Transit-Oriented Development initiatives in three major corridors

Created community engagement strategy for TOD master plan, resulting in 90% neighborhood approval

Typical job title: "Urban Planners"

Also try searching for:

Urban Planner City Planner Transportation Planner Development Planner Land Use Planner Community Development Specialist Urban Designer

Where to Find Urban Planners

Professional Organizations

Job Boards

Professional Networks

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you approach implementing a TOD project in a community that's resistant to density increases?

Expected Answer: A senior planner should discuss community engagement strategies, demonstrating success stories from similar projects, addressing specific community concerns, and explaining the economic and quality-of-life benefits of TOD. They should also mention phasing strategies and design solutions that help new development blend with existing neighborhoods.

Q: What factors do you consider when evaluating the feasibility of a TOD project?

Expected Answer: Should discuss market analysis, transit accessibility, existing infrastructure capacity, land costs, zoning requirements, community needs, and potential funding sources including public-private partnerships and grants.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What are the key elements that make a TOD project successful?

Expected Answer: Should mention walkability, mixed-use development, appropriate density, public spaces, transit connectivity, and parking management. Should also discuss how these elements work together to create vibrant, sustainable communities.

Q: How do you balance the needs of different stakeholders in a TOD project?

Expected Answer: Should explain approaches to working with developers, transit agencies, local businesses, residents, and city officials, demonstrating understanding of various perspectives and how to find common ground.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What is TOD and why is it important for cities?

Expected Answer: Should explain basic concept of development around transit stations, benefits like reduced car dependency, increased walkability, and environmental benefits. Should show understanding of basic TOD principles.

Q: What types of amenities would you include in a TOD project?

Expected Answer: Should discuss mix of housing types, retail, services, public spaces, and pedestrian/bicycle infrastructure, showing understanding of what makes a neighborhood livable and transit-supportive.