ASSISTANT PLANNER

City of Hobbs; Hobbs (NM); On-site; USD 40,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

City of Hobbs seeks an Assistant Planner to support the Planning Department in day-to-day professional, technical, and administrative duties. You will assist with site development reviews, public notices, and GIS updates while coordinating with staff and boards.

Required are a relevant degree and strong communication skills; municipal planning experience is preferred. This role is office-based with some fieldwork and opportunities for growth within the department.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Urban Planning, Public Administration, Geography, Construction Management, or related field.
• Associate's degree or equivalent with four years related work experience.

Responsibilities

• Assist City Planner with coordination and management of planning projects.
• Serve as a point of contact for the public regarding development processes.
• Review minor development proposals for codes and plans compliance.
• Prepare reports, maps, and presentations for Planning Board and meetings.
• Manage planning records and GIS updates with department staff.
• Monitor timelines, deliverables, and budgets for tasks or contracts.
• Support grant application development and administration.
• Assist with public notices and agendas for Planning Board meetings.
• Perform field visits and site verifications related to zoning applications.
• Participate in committees or task forces as assigned.
• Perform duties of Planning Technicians and Administrative Assistant as needed.

Skills

Municipal planning

GIS awareness

Microsoft Office

Written & verbal

Team collaboration

Education

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

Associate's degree or equivalent with four years related work experience

Tools

GIS

Microsoft Office

Planning software

Job 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

• 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.

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.

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.