Planner (Planning - Urban Design & Development)

Perform professional and technical planning work involving the gathering, analysis and presentation of data in written, graphic or oral reports; organize and conduct meetings for community participation in planning and policy or economic development and provide highly responsible and complex staff assistance to higher level staff within assigned department.

Job descriptions are intended to present a general list of tasks/duties performed by employees within this job classification. Job Descriptions are not intended to reflect all duties performed within the job.
 

SSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: Essential functions may include, but are not limited to thefunctions listed below. Must be able to perform the essential functions of thejob with or without a reasonable accommodation.

1. Prepare and produce community level plans, economic development, transportation and/or general planning including research, technical analysis and report preparation; prepare and edit proposals and recommendations.
2. Conduct public meetings; organize and coordinate citizens and property owners; negotiate and moderate differences between parties.
3. Collaborate with civic, business and governmental groups to include them in the development of community level, transportation, economic development and/or general planning policies and procedures; may coordinate meetings and/or activities with other agencies and departments as needed.
4. Perform various research and analysis including costs and revenue studies and/or economic incentives, population projections and distribution, utility need projections, economic, housing, demand forecasts and social data.
5. Help the public develop pride in their communities; plan for the physical, economic, environmental and social future of certain communities.
6. Develop work programs and schedules for conducting planning projects or studies; complete assignments according to established schedules.
7. Make recommendations to boards, commissions and elected officials on various planning matters in progress including proposed legislation and ordinances.
8. Review proposed capital improvements or minor building projects; analyze justifications and prepare recommendations on priorities; coordinate the capital implementation program with community planning efforts.
9. May coordinate and oversee contract development including formulation, administration and compliance; prepare and present reports on budget expenditures and status of project.
10. Provide staff assistance to higher level supervisory or management staff; participate on a variety of committees; prepare and present staff reports, documents, briefs and presentation materials as appropriate and necessary.

When assigned to the Planning Department:

1. Collaborate with the public on design and compliance with applicable regulations, standards and guidelines.
2. Assist with the submittal of private sector applications, projects and initiatives.
3. Assist Code Enforcement staff with the application of special zoning and other regulations.
4. Collaborate with various planners (Long Range, Current and Metropolitan Redevelopment) in drafting plans and policies and development review.
5. Provide development review process guidance to property owners, developers and design professionals.

When assigned to the Planning Department - Historic Preservation Division:

1. Collaborate with the public and Landmarks Commission (LC) on design and development review. 
2. Assist with historic preservation projects and initiatives. 
3. Assist Code Enforcement staff with the implementation and enforcement of applicable Historic Protection Overlay Zone (HPO) design regulations. 
4. Collaborate with various planners (Long Range, Current and Metropolitan Redevelopment) in drafting plans and policies, and development review.
5. Provide historic preservation education and guidance to property owners, developers, and design professionals.                     

When assigned to the Parks and Recreation Department:

1. Participate in the coordination of transportation planning projects and initiatives.
2. Coordinate parks, trails, and open space plans, projects, and activities with various agencies.
3. Collaborate with various planners in drafting plans, policies and development review for transportation, trails, and public open space projects.
4. Review development plans and proposals on and or adjacent to Major Public Open Space and parks and provide comments to public agencies.  
5. Assist with City-wide planning initiatives, regulations and policies, including but not limited to the Integrative Development Ordinance, Comprehensive Plan specific to trails, parks and Open Space. 
6. Work with management on research, mapping, and other tasks related to property acquisitions and enhancements.
    

SUPPLEMENTAL FUNCTIONS:

1. Attend and participate in professional group meetings; stay abreast of new trends and innovations in the field of planning.
2. Perform related duties and responsibilities as required.

Education and experience directly related to the minimum requirements below may be interchangeable on a year for year basis.

Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university directly related to this job description; and 

Four (4) years of experience in planning.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

Possession of a valid New Mexico Driver's License, or the ability to obtain by date of hire.
Possession of a City Operator's Permit (COP) within six (6) months from date of hire.

Environmental:

Office environment; exposure to computer screens.

Physical:

Essential and supplemental functions may require maintaining physical condition necessary for sitting for prolonged periods of time.