Applying for a job in a ridiculously small town?

[Threequalseven]

I found a job in my area that I would be qualified for with just my bachelor's and work experience. I feel like I'd have a good shot at getting it because they just extended their application deadline. The kicker is it's in a town of 1,400 people, and the nearest big city is over a 2 1/2 hour drive away. Plus, it's in the plains area, so there wouldn't be much to offer in terms of scenery.

I'm in my 20s and living with my girlfriend. Would it be worth it to make nearly $40K/year and get work experience if it means compromising what's left of my youth? Has anybody lived in a similar situation? I just can't imagine how I'd get by in a place where everybody is over 40 and even the nearest Walmart is a half hour away. Thoughts?

[dvdneal]

I know everyone here will support getting work experience, but if you're questioning being able to live and enjoy life in the middle of nowhere, you might not last long. Whatever decision you make, just realize it's work experience or good life. Also, how does your girlfriend feel about moving with you or this that another cost of taking this job?

[Suburb Repairman]

I found a job in my area that I would be qualified for with just my bachelor's and work experience. I feel like I'd have a good shot at getting it because they just extended their application deadline. The kicker is it's in a town of 1,400 people, and the nearest big city is over a 2 1/2 hour drive away. Plus, it's in the plains area, so there wouldn't be much to offer in terms of scenery.

I'm in my 20s and living with my girlfriend. Would it be worth it to make nearly $40K/year and get work experience if it means compromising what's left of my youth? Has anybody lived in a similar situation? I just can't imagine how I'd get by in a place where everybody is over 40 and even the nearest Walmart is a half hour away. Thoughts?

Do it. My first job was in a backwards city of 5,000 people (not quite as isolated as your possible town), but it got me the experience to advance my career at a much faster pace than many of my counterparts. A three year gig in the middle of nowhere won't kill you, and you'll get interesting, broad experience. You'll learn how to work really well in a political environment in which "everyone knows everyone." Plus, it is a unique life experience (I became a skilled 9-pin bowler). You might get surprised and really like it. Several Cyburbians have done similar things for their first job, including stints in Alaska. If you hate it, just stick there for 2-3 years. That isn't that long and you'll still have plenty of youth left to enjoy. It'll get you the experience so your next move can be to a place you'll love.

Will the girlfriend be following you? If so, that personal aspect naturally needs to be part of your decision process. LDRs are not easy, but can be done.

[Brocktoon]

I found a job in my area that I would be qualified for with just my bachelor's and work experience. I feel like I'd have a good shot at getting it because they just extended their application deadline. The kicker is it's in a town of 1,400 people, and the nearest big city is over a 2 1/2 hour drive away. Plus, it's in the plains area, so there wouldn't be much to offer in terms of scenery.

I'm in my 20s and living with my girlfriend. Would it be worth it to make nearly $40K/year and get work experience if it means compromising what's left of my youth? Has anybody lived in a similar situation? I just can't imagine how I'd get by in a place where everybody is over 40 and even the nearest Walmart is a half hour away. Thoughts?

It all depends on your career ambitions. Are you happy in your current job? If you are then no reason to move but if you are trying to break into the field then you need to get experience. Also, your youth does not end at 25 or even 30. As you see it now when do you plan on focusing on your career?

[MacheteJames]

Do it. My first job was in a backwards city of 5,000 people (not quite as isolated as your possible town), but it got me the experience to advance my career at a much faster pace than many of my counterparts. A three year gig in the middle of nowhere won't kill you, and you'll get interesting, broad experience.

Will the girlfriend be following you? If so, that personal aspect naturally needs to be part of your decision process. LDRs are not easy, but can be done.

Yeah, I mean it's only 3 years in a middle of nowhere town where you have no connections during the prime of your life, right? What could possibly go wrong /sarcasm

I'm going to be a contrarian here, but think hard about this. I know that when I got started in the planning field in my mid 20s and was looking around for a first gig, a small town in the middle of nowhere was never an option. As a person of color and someone from the densely populated and diverse northeast, doing the 'nomad planner' thing and living in a tiny rural town in desperation to get experience in what amounts to a middle class civil service job was inconceivable.

[Backstrom]

I found a job in my area that I would be qualified for with just my bachelor's and work experience. I feel like I'd have a good shot at getting it because they just extended their application deadline. The kicker is it's in a town of 1,400 people, and the nearest big city is over a 2 1/2 hour drive away. Plus, it's in the plains area, so there wouldn't be much to offer in terms of scenery.

I'm in my 20s and living with my girlfriend. Would it be worth it to make nearly $40K/year and get work experience if it means compromising what's left of my youth? Has anybody lived in a similar situation? I just can't imagine how I'd get by in a place where everybody is over 40 and even the nearest Walmart is a half hour away. Thoughts?

I'd echo what everyone else has said. But don't get too caught up in what-ifs until you actually get an offer. There were a lot of jobs I thought I would get, but didn't.

[Suburb Repairman]

Yeah, I mean it's only 3 years in a middle of nowhere town where you have no connections during the prime of your life, right? What could possibly go wrong /sarcasm

I'm going to be a contrarian here, but think hard about this. I know that when I got started in the planning field in my mid 20s and was looking around for a first gig, a small town in the middle of nowhere was never an option. As a person of color and someone from the densely populated and diverse northeast, doing the 'nomad planner' thing and living in a tiny rural town in desperation to get experience in what amounts to a middle class civil service job was inconceivable.

I agree that it should be a carefully considered decision and that the rural stint isn't for everyone, but Christ, people act like you die when you reach 30 years old.

I'm a big believer in experiencing new things and pushing out of comfort zones. Threequalseven should know himself well enough to know whether he can handle rural life for a spell, perhaps isolated from a personal support structure--and I don't think he would be contemplating it at all if he thought that was a major breaking issue. I don't consider it all that different from someone joining the Peace Corps or Americorps in how you are removed from your usual environment, except with this you are actually getting paid and getting real experience. I think the most significant question he needs to answer is in regards to his girlfriend and what this move may mean--that is a very serious thing and in my opinion is a trump card.

Learn about the place. If they decide to interview you, spend a couple of extra days there just hanging out and learning what there is to do there and in the nearby town. This can be your sample to see whether you should continue to apply to these small isolated jurisdictions and/or accept the job if offered. What are the things that might make you nervous about it? For example, MacheteJames makes a legit point that you might be a social/cultural anomaly in the town that makes it harder to "fit in." Is it too much of an extreme change from what you are used to? I would just encourage you to give these rural places a little benefit of the doubt and do your research--every one of them is different. They are gratifying places to work because the decision-making process is often more efficient. And I cannot understate the value of learning how to come into a place as an outsider and winning trust & respect from them. These places understand that a young person coming in is doing so for the experience, but they are often appreciative that you are willing to give their town a shot (in my experience, they link this to being a "go getter" with a good work ethic). Provided, of course, that you don't act like a smug know-it-all from the big city. Plus, there are always old ladies willing to feed you because you remind them of their grandsons.

I'll admit that I'm a bit biased in my opinion--going the small town route is how I discovered that I really liked working in smaller settings rather than more intense urban environments.

[Threequalseven]

My main worry is that it would be incredibly boring. I honestly don't know what we would do or who we'd talk to. It looks like all my coworkers would be married moms with children. I know I could keep myself entertained, playing music and building stuff. But I think the lack of a social life would drive me mad. Of course, there's also the problem of finding housing and work for my girlfriend.

To give you an idea of how small this place is. The town itself has 1,400 people with one gas station, one grocery store, and one bar. The nearest town of 5,000 people is a 30 minute drive away. The nearest town of 20,000 people is an hour away. The nearest cities of 100,000 people are a 2 1/2 hour drive away, and the nearest major city is nearly 3 hours away. I worry there would be little else to do except for watching TV, having babies, and developing a drinking problem. I'm just concerned that this is the best gig I can get without a Master's degree. But I really can't see spending 3 years out there without going mad, yet that seems to be the required amount of experience needed to get a "big league" job without a graduate eduction. (And even with that Master's, job prospects still look awfully bleak.)

I guess my main point is, I'm worried that this could be my only chance at getting into the planning field (on account of the lack of competition for this job). However, I don't know if the loneliness and ensuing depression would justify it.

[mike gurnee]

1,400 is ridiculously small. I even wonder why they want a planner type. Most likely there would other functions as well. I made my career in small towns, but would draw the line at 20-30,000 or so for the area size. And I never had the reservations you have. GF trouble finding a job? There are no jobs in such a hamlet. Forget it. With all the reservations you have stated this is not for you.

[Suburb Repairman]

Those additional details are important. Based on what you said, I would not recommend pursuing that job. Best case scenario at least one of you would have a very lengthy commute for a job and that place does sound really, really tiny. Lack of housing options probably finishes it off.

There's a part of me that wants you to apply anyway just because I find the concept of a city of 1,400 people needing a full-time planner kind of fascinating.

[HomerJ]

1,400 is ridiculously small. I even wonder why they want a planner type. Most likely there would other functions as well.

I also find it odd that such a small town would want to hire a planner.

Why not apply? Your interview will give a better idea if it will work or not. The best position you can be in as a professional is one where a potential employer is trying to convince you to join their organization; at least give them a chance to convince you. No harm done if they can't.

[Veloise]

My main worry is that it would be incredibly boring. I honestly don't know what we would do or who we'd talk to.... I know I could keep myself entertained, playing music and building stuff. But I think the lack of a social life would drive me mad. Of course, there's also the problem of finding housing and work for my girlfriend.

... The town itself has 1,400 people with one gas station, one grocery store, and one bar. The nearest town of 5,000 people is a 30 minute drive away. The nearest town of 20,000 people is an hour away. The nearest cities of 100,000 people are a 2 1/2 hour drive away, and the nearest major city is nearly 3 hours away....

I guess my main point is, I'm worried that this could be my only chance at getting into the planning field (on account of the lack of competition for this job). However, I don't know if the loneliness and ensuing depression would justify it.

How about finding a place to live in the 5k town? Or the 20k town? You'd have a commute but would have a stab at a social life, and possible job for the GF.

It might be helpful to realize that co-workers are not your friends, and the workplace is not designed to provide a social life. FWIW, "married moms with children" are capable of having conversations about other topics, although how awesome dude! the latest [insert your special interest here] is might not be there.

(recalling my niece discounting Possible Prom Dates because they were three-five months older or younger than her)

[Midori]

I wouldn't totally write them off until you visit. If you're an outdoorsy type, it might be fantastic. Or you could become an outdoorsy type. And while most small towns have aging populations, this might not be one of them. You just don't know till you check it out.

But yes, GF would need to be prepared for the very real possibility that she'll be hard up for employment. Maybe she could take a sabbatical and write a book.

[Raf]

I'd echo what everyone else has said. But don't get too caught up in what-ifs until you actually get an offer. There were a lot of jobs I thought I would get, but didn't.

+1. Apply, but don't go overthinking this until you get an offer. Too many times in this kind of market i thought, "man i know i am going to get an interview! I am totally qualified" and never got an interview. Don't count your chickens until they have hatched.

[Otis]

Just a few thoughts.

First, if you don't want to be small town planner for the rest of your career, don't stay in a small town too long. You'll get pigeon-holed and find that big city jobs are not open to you. I wouldn't stay more than three years if small town planning is not for you. While I am a former big city guy, I am now a small town planner (and have been for more than 15 years) and I am fine with that because of the quality I life my wife and I have here. When I need a city fix, which has been the case less and less over the years, I can drive to a big city a couple of hours away.

Second, in a small town, on the positive side, you'll get much broader experience since you't likely be doing everything. That has tremendous resume value. You will be swimming with the big fish in the town and that can be very empowering. You will learn fast, especially how to get along with people and how to present ideas in a politically sensitive manner. That is extremely important in planning, especially as you go up the ladder.

Third, have they ever had a planner before? If so, why did that person leave? Run out of town? If they haven't had a planner, what issues made them decide to have a planner? And how welcoming will the local populace be to suddenly being told what they can do with their property? A planner who worked for me took a job in Idaho as a small city's first planner. He did great work, exactly what the city council wanted him to do, but some powerful people pushed the city council to eliminate the job because they didn't need no stinkin' planner.

Finally, think about whether you can go into it with an open attitude. If you're thinking this is boring hell-hole it will come across to those you will be dealing with, and they won't like your condescending attitude. Small towns have strong social networks and word will get around fast. It will make your job much more difficult than it has to be.

[MacheteJames]

How about finding a place to live in the 5k town? Or the 20k town? You'd have a commute but would have a stab at a social life, and possible job for the GF.

It might be helpful to realize that co-workers are not your friends, and the workplace is not designed to provide a social life. FWIW, "married moms with children" are capable of having conversations about other topics, although how awesome dude! the latest [insert your special interest here] is might not be there.

(recalling my niece discounting Possible Prom Dates because they were three-five months older or younger than her)

I would argue that a twenty-something new planner needs to be developing a network of peer professionals. Sometimes, this happens over beers. I did it through my local APA chapter and met some of the coolest and most talented people I know that way.You're just not going to get build the same kinds of connections with middle aged coworkers who are at a different place in their careers and lives. Maybe things are different in the sticks, but so much of getting ahead in *any* field is who you know, and co-workers, in fact, frequently DO provide a social outlet. Everyone's circumstances differ.

[Threequalseven]

This position isn't a new one. Based on the website, the last planner had a MURP from a big university, so I imagine they're just moving on to bigger and brighter things. Also, it's not a municipal planning job, it's for the regional planning organization. So I'd be working in many of the surrounding tiny towns. The town of 1,400 just happens to be in the geographic center of that region.

As for networking, it's kind of a catch-22. You need to network to get a good job, but you need the job in order to network. My current situation isn't doing me much good as I'm not networking at all. I do have over two years work experience in a related field in my college town, but job prospects are next to non-existent there. I feel that I could network with some folks at the state level in this position anyway. Also, in terms of staying longer than 3 years, I don't even think I could stick it out that long. To be frank, it would basically be a stepping stone so I could at least have the word "planner" on my resume.

Last, of course I shouldn't count my chickens before they hatch. But I'd like to decide whether or not I could even live there before applying. Seeing how the interview goes, if I get one, is good advice.

[mike gurnee]

it's not a municipal planning job, it's for the regional planning organization. So I'd be working in many of the surrounding tiny towns. The town of 1,400 just happens to be in the geographic center of that region.

THAT makes a big difference.

[Midori]

Also, it's not a municipal planning job, it's for the regional planning organization. So I'd be working in many of the surrounding tiny towns. The town of 1,400 just happens to be in the geographic center of that region.

That's what I do. I have 7 municipalities I work for over a 6-county range, of varying sizes. It's a fantastic way to get a variety of experience, and it does keep it interesting to have so many balls in the air at once. Of course, the downside (at least where I am) is it's hard to really immerse yourself in any one town when you have to spread your attention like that. Sometimes I feel like I'm just sticking band-aids on zoning ordinance provisions instead of doing a needed complete overhaul, for example. I would think that having a regional perspective would greatly mitigate the boredom and isolation factor.

[dw914er]

+1. Apply, but don't go overthinking this until you get an offer. Too many times in this kind of market i thought, "man i know i am going to get an interview! I am totally qualified" and never got an interview. Don't count your chickens until they have hatched.

I agree. You do not have an interview until they offer one, and you do not have the job until they formally offer you the job... and none of that will happen until you actually apply. I would make the effort to see if you can get the interview, and then assess the "fit" afterwards. Remember, an interview is for the benefit of both parties involved, not just the hiring agency, and you may find that it would be a great opportunity.. or not. The fact that the job is for regional planning agency helps makes the work you would be doing a lot more interesting.

[Cardinal]

Just out of curiousity, is this community in the oli fields? If so, you won't be bored at work (after work is another matter). My first director's job was in a community the same size, although a half hour from Madison, WI, where I lived and had a social life. The job did set me on a good path. Less than two years later I was in a community of 15,000, college town, making twice as much - and still in a director's position. If you take the job, negotiate 1) a large budget for conferences and training; 2) the opportunity to participate regularly in state and regional professional organizations; vacation beginning year one. Network like crazy. Get to be known for something. Don't feel bad about leaving for another position after just a year on the job.