Associate Planner

Essential Functions

• Performs complex professional-level transportation planning work and program administration; prepares and administers transportation plans and programs; gathers, analyzes, and manages data; assists in the development of project agreements; prepares maps, graphs, models, grant applications and reports; participates in and serves as a lead on assigned special studies and projects.
• Provides information and assistance to member agencies, outside agencies, and the public regarding laws, regulations, standards, policies, and procedures related to transportation planning and other content within the purview of Merced County Association of Governments (MCAG); ensures transportation plan and project requirements are met; communicates and coordinates with other departments and outside agencies.
• Prepares staff reports, resolutions, proposals, grant applications, letters, public hearing notices, and environmental review documents; collects and analyzes complex data for special reports and projects; engages in public engagement activities/public speaking; represents MCAG in various local, regional, and statewide forums.
• Transportation: Participates in and leads transportation and related planning studies; assists in the development, implementation, and monitoring of federal and state long term planning documents; manages funding allocations for assigned program areas; coordinates and implements environmental review procedures; performs planning and funding research; works directly with and oversees the activities of consultants; assists in the development of both short and long range transportation plans;
  
  assists in travel demand and air quality modeling and processes.
• Demonstrates a full understanding of applicable policies, procedures, best practices, and work methods associated with assigned duties; serves as project coordinator or team leader on specific projects; aids training for less experienced planning staff; responds to the more complex questions and concerns from member agencies, outside agencies, and the public.
• Establishes positive working relationships with representatives of community-based organizations, other agencies, MCAG management and staff, and the public; manages and conducts public and committee meetings.

Any combination of education and experience that has provided the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary for an Associate Planner. A typical way of obtaining the required qualifications is to possess the equivalent of two years of experience in regional/municipal planning or grant administration, and a bachelor’s degree in urban or regional planning, public administration, or related field. A wide variety of bachelor’s degrees can contribute to planning work;

many degree types will qualify. Graduate work may be substituted for one year of experience.

Should the ideal candidate lack the full scope of required experience, we are open to hiring at the Assistant Planner level.

Possession of, or ability to obtain, a valid Class C California driver’s license.

Principles, practices, and techniques of urban and regional transportation planning and project implementation, including air quality, modeling, public engagement, and funding; statistical methods and research techniques applicable to the preparation of transportation planning documents and funding requests; techniques and processes involved in the preparation and implementation of long-range plans.

Basic principles of mathematics; applicable federal, state, and local laws, codes, and regulations; standard office procedures, practices, and equipment; modern office practices, methods, and equipment, including a computer and applicable software; methods and techniques for record keeping; writing in proper English, spelling, and grammar; public speaking; occupational hazards and standard safety practices.

Apply policies, procedures, and standards pertaining to the transportation planning process; analyze complex data and prepare concise, clear and effective reports; perform mathematical calculations quickly and accurately; interpret, explain, and apply applicable laws, codes, and regulations; read, interpret and record data accurately; organize, prioritize, and independently follow‑up on work assignments; work independently and as part of a team; make sound decisions within established guidelines;

analyze a complex issue, and develop and implement an appropriate response; follow written and oral directions; observe safety principles and work in a safe manner; attend events outside of typical working hours as required and overnight travel as needed; communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing; establish and maintain effective working relationships.

Operate a variety of office equipment, including a computer and variety of software applications.