JOB OPENING

CITY OF FARMINGTON

JOB POSITION #96: Associate Planner

NUMBER OF VACANCIES: 1

DEPARTMENT: Community Development/Planning

WORK LOCATION: West Annex Building, 2nd Floor, 805 Municipal Drive, Farmington, NM

TYPE OF POSITION: Regular/Full-Time

PAY GRADE: L - Exempt

HIRING RANGE: $50,776.82 - $78,998.85

DAYS WORKED: Monday-Friday

HOURS WORKED: 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.

APPLICATIONS WILL BE RECEIVED: Open Until Filled

JOB DUTIES

POSITION SUMMARY:

The City of Farmington is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Associate Planner to join our Community Development Department. This position performs professional and technical planning work in support of the City's land use policies, zoning regulations, long-range planning goals, and public engagement efforts. The position also administers the Community Development Block Grant, ensuring compliance with federal regulations and standards. It's an excellent opportunity for a planning professional looking to make a meaningful impact in a vibrant, growing community.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Reporting to the Principal Planner, the Associate Planner will:

• Assist the public at the front counter, reviewing permits, and responding to planning-related inquiries.
• Research and compile data for studies, reports, and planning recommendations.
• Prepare planning reports, GIS maps, visual graphics, and supporting exhibits.
• Support implementation of the 2040 Comprehensive Plan and other long-range initiatives.
• Contribute to current planning efforts, including development review and zoning code updates.
• Maintain city planning records, files, and databases (including GIS) in accordance with standards.
• Provide professional planning advice to city officials, staff, and the public.
• Present findings to internal teams, boards, commissions, and City Council.
• Evaluate land use proposals for consistency with City codes, plans, and policies.
• Assist in updating zoning, subdivision, and land use regulations.
• Participate in and support the Development Review Committee.
• Facilitate public meetings, surveys, workshops, and other outreach efforts.
• Provide staff support to the Planning & Zoning Commission, Administrative Review Board, and other boards as needed.
• Operate a city vehicle for field inspections and related duties.

CDBG PROGRAM ADMINISTRATION

This position also administers the City's Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program:

• Manage the annual Action Plan and Consolidated Plan in coordination with stakeholders.
• Monitor subrecipients and departments for compliance with HUD regulations.
• Prepare and submit HUD reports, including the CAPER.
• Conduct community outreach to ensure transparency and gather public input.
• Track financials and reporting in HUD's IDIS system.
• Coordinate environmental reviews and Davis-Bacon compliance.
• Serve as the City's primary contact with HUD.
• Maintain thorough documentation of all CDBG activities.
• Support fair housing and community development initiatives.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in Urban Planning, Geography, Public Administration, or related field required.
• Master's degree or progress toward AICP certification preferred.
• 1-3 years of professional planning experience, preferably in a municipal or regional setting.
• Experience with grant administration (especially CDBG) highly desirable.

Licenses and Requirements:

• Valid driver's license with acceptable driving record.
• Subject to pre-employment drug testing and background check as per City policy.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Knowledge of urban and regional planning principles.
• Familiarity with zoning, land use, and environmental planning.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office; GIS and Adobe Creative Suite preferred.
• Strong communication, analytical, and project management skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
• Comfortable with public presentations and engaging diverse audiences.
• Strong attention to detail, organization, and time management.
• Commitment to ethical standards, public service, and inclusive community development.

Working Conditions and Physical Demands:

• Work is primarily office-based, with occasional fieldwork.
• May require evening or weekend meetings.
• Involves light lifting (up to 10 lbs), computer use, and visual concentration.
• Occasional exposure to outdoor weather and moderate noise during site visits.

WE ARE AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER, M/F/D/V