ASSISTANT PLANNER

Description

Under the direct supervision of the City Planner, the Assistant Planner performs day-to-day professional, technical, and administrative duties to support the functions of the Planning Department. This position coordinates internal processes, manages routine project activities, assists with site development and land use reviews, and ensures timely execution of planning initiatives and departmental objectives.

Essential Duties

ESSENTIAL DUTIES

• Assist the City Planner with coordination and management of planning projects, including comprehensive plan updates, ordinance revisions, and community development initiatives.
• Serve as a point of contact for the public regarding development processes.
• Review minor development proposals, including site plans, landscaping, signage, and minor subdivisions for compliance with applicable codes and plans.
• Prepare reports, maps, and presentations for the Planning Board, staff meetings, and public hearings.
• Manage and maintain planning records, case files, address assignments, and GIS updates in coordination with department staff.
• Monitor project timelines, deliverables, and budget compliance for assigned tasks or contracts.
• Support grant application development and administration under the guidance of the City Planner.
• Assist with public notices, agenda packets, and logistics for Planning Board meetings and community engagement events.
• Perform field visits, inspections, and site verifications related to planning and zoning applications.
• Participate in committees or task forces as assigned.
• Performs duties of Planning Technicians and Administrative Assistant as needed or as required.

The duties listed above are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the position.

NON-ESSENTIAL DUTIES

Represent the City in planning-related committees or professional organizations. Attend trainings, workshops, and seminars; some travel may be required.

WORK BEHAVIORS

• Follow supervisory direction and chain of command.
• Maintain a positive, respectful attitude with the public and coworkers.
• Adhere to work schedules and complete assignments thoroughly and on time.
• Comply with all City policies, procedures, and applicable laws.
• Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
• Follow safety protocols and use equipment appropriately.
• Maintain confidentiality of sensitive information.
• Operate City vehicles responsibly and maintain insurability.
• Take initiative and perform tasks in accordance with SOPs.

Minimum Qualifications

Education and Experience:

Bachelor’s degree in Urban Planning, Public Administration, Geography, Construction Management, or related field.

• OR -

Associate's degree or equivalent course work at a technical or vocational school with four (4) years applicable work experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in municipal planning processes, GIS applications, or development permitting.
• Knowledge of zoning codes, subdivision regulations, and comprehensive plans

Skills, Knowledge and Abilities:

• Strong understanding of municipal planning procedures, land use policies, and development review processes.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite; familiarity with GIS and planning software preferred.
• Ability to communicate clearly and professionally in both written and verbal formats.
• Ability to manage multiple projects with varying deadlines and priorities.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work in a collaborative team environment.

LICENSING AND CERTIFICATIONS

• Valid state issued driver’s license.

TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT USED

Computer, including word processing; motor vehicle; calculator; phone; copy and fax machine; various graphic design tools.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED

Works under the broad policy guidance of the City Planner

SUPERVISION EXERCISED

Exercises general supervision over clerical, administrative and professional staff as assigned.

Physical Demands & Work Environment

The Work is primarily in an office setting with some fieldwork required. Must occasionally lift/move objects up to 10 lbs. Requires hand-eye coordination for computer and office equipment use. Must occasionally walk, sit, stand, stoop, kneel, or crouch. Vision requirements include close, distance, color, peripheral, and depth perception. Occasional exposure to outdoor weather, dust, or construction sites. Office noise level is typically quiet; fieldwork may involve moderate noise.

• The City of Hobbs will provide 80% to 90% Heath Insurance Coverage from Single to Family coverage.
• Employees are eligible for 100% short-term disability coverage provided by the City of Hobbs.
• Employer PERA contributions 14.8% for general, 28.775% for HPD, 30.9% for HFD.
• CDL pay - $6,000 per year (if applicable).
• PTO accruals start at 12 hours per month (144 hours per year) and progressively increase based on years of service to 20 hours per month (240 hours per year) at year 21.
• Bilingual Pay - $1,500 dollar incentive per year upon completion of yearly proficiency test.
• Education Incentive - ($1,000, $4,000, $6,000 dollars - Associates, Bachelor's, Masters; degree must be relevant to position and above the current minimum requirements of the held position).
• Longevity Pay - Begins at the completion of 10 years of service. Gradually increased.
• Retention Incentive - $600 incentive yearly with years 1-9 of completed service
• 13 Paid Holidays.
• Bereavement Leave - 5 days per calendar year per personnel rules guidelines.
• Military Leave - (120 hours per year for general, 183.75 per year for HPD, 360 hours per year for HFD).