Urban Planner

Job Summary

As a Planner, you will play a crucial role in supporting customers, developers, contractors, and community stakeholders to realize their project requirements. Your responsibilities will include guiding clients through the municipal planning process, facilitating public and municipal approvals, and helping with applications for official plans and zoning amendments. Your expertise in Ontario’s planning framework and commitment to stakeholder engagement will be vital in helping clients meet project goals efficiently.

Key Responsibilities

• Project Facilitation and Customer Support:
• Collaborate with customers, developers, and contractors to understand project needs and align them with municipal planning requirements.
• Act as a liaison between clients and municipal authorities to guide projects through each step of the approval process, including zoning applications, bylaw compliance, and permit submissions.
• Assist clients in preparing and submitting applications for official plan amendments, zoning changes, site plans, and permits, ensuring accuracy and adherence to local standards.
• Community and Stakeholder Engagement:
• Organize and lead consultations with community stakeholders, residents, and municipal officials to gather input and foster collaboration.
• Conduct in-person meetings with key stakeholders to negotiate project terms, address community concerns, and secure necessary approvals.
• Communicate complex planning concepts clearly and professionally to non-technical stakeholders, ensuring transparency and understanding.
• Municipal Policy and Compliance:
• Stay up-to-date on local bylaws, zoning regulations, and Ontario’s Planning Act to provide clients with accurate advice.
• Draft Planning Rationales, site plans, and zoning proposals in accordance with municipal standards and legal requirements.
• Ensure all projects align with Ontario’s Planning Act, Provincial Policy Statement (PPS), Local Official Plans, Bylaws and Conservation Authorities, and other applicable guidelines.
• Approvals and Negotiation:
• Negotiate approval conditions with municipal planning departments to meet project timelines and objectives.
• Facilitate public hearings and planning committee meetings to present project details, address questions, and advocate for client interests.
• Provide guidance throughout the municipal approval process, helping clients overcome regulatory hurdles and secure project go-ahead.
• Data Analysis and Reporting:
• Perform site analyses, environmental reviews, and demographic research to support project proposals.
• Use GIS and other planning tools to create visuals, maps, and reports that aid in stakeholder decision-making.
• Compile detailed reports and documentation for municipal submissions and client records.

Qualifications

Education and Certifications:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Urban Planning, Geography, Environmental Studies, or a related field.
• Full membership or eligibility for membership with the Ontario Professional Planners Institute (OPPI) and the Canadian Institute of Planners (CIP).

Experience:

• Minimum of 3 years of experience in urban planning, land use, or community development, preferably with a strong focus on guiding clients through Ontario’s municipal planning process.
• Direct experience in drafting planning rationales, facilitating zoning changes, navigating bylaws, and securing municipal approvals.
• Proven record of working with developers, contractors, and community members to achieve project objectives and negotiate terms.

Skills:

• In-depth knowledge of Ontario’s Planning Act, zoning bylaws, municipal planning processes, and relevant provincial frameworks.
• Exceptional communication and negotiation skills, with the ability to build rapport with diverse stakeholders.
• Proficiency in GIS, AutoCAD, and planning software to support data visualization and project documentation a plus.
• Strong organizational skills with experience managing multiple projects and deadlines.
• Ability to work independently, taking initiative to meet project goals and exceed client expectations.

Additional Requirements:

• Valid Ontario driver’s license and access to a vehicle for site visits.
• Availability to attend in-person meetings and community events as needed.