Associate Planner

City of Farmington•Farmington, NM

16d•Onsite

About The Position

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.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Urban Planning, Geography, Public Administration, or related field strongly preferred.
1–3 years of professional planning experience, preferably in a municipal or regional setting.
Valid driver's license with acceptable driving record.
Subject to pre-employment drug testing and background check as per City policy.
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.

Nice To Haves

Master's degree or progress toward AICP certification preferred.
Experience with grant administration (especially CDBG) highly desirable.

Responsibilities

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.
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.