Emerging Smart Cities Job Profiles and Competencies: A Framework for Digital and Green Transition

The transformation of urban living, driven by the advent of smart cities, extends beyond changes in the physical landscape and the introduction of smart systems. It necessitates a profound reconfiguration of employment dynamics within urban ecosystems. This study addresses the critical challenge of aligning job roles and competencies with the demands of smart city development, focusing on the need for a transformative realignment of urban employment to meet these new requirements. The research identifies emerging job roles and competencies essential for smart city development, focusing on professions such as data analysts, urban planners, sustainability managers, and cybersecurity specialists. Methodologically, the study employs a comprehensive analysis of secondary data to explore these roles, and the skills required. The findings highlight the urgent need for educational curricula and training programs tailored to the specialized demands of smart cities, emphasizing technological and environmental expertise to manage urban complexity, resilience, and the green transition. This research offers valuable insights for policymakers, educators, and smart city managers, influencing and guiding urban development towards a future characterized by technological innovation and environmental sustainability. The role of city staff is underscored as crucial in achieving these objectives.