Planner II 

Position Summary

Reporting to the Manager, Policy, the Planner II (Policy) is responsible for the delivery of studies and projects related to the development, monitoring and implementation of the Official Plan and other planning studies for the City.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

Planning Study Preparation and Project Management:

• Design and manage studies related to the City's Official Plan and/or guidance material to implement policies
• Prepare policy recommendations, and/or Official Plan amendments
• Coordinate and facilitate internal and external working groups/workshop, agency, and public consultation meetings as necessary, and incorporate feedback into study materials
• Execute necessary public consultation process

Communications:

• Prepare staff reports, briefing notes, correspondence relating to any policy projects and/or planning legislations
• Present information to internal and external stakeholders, including Council and Committees of Council as required

Research & Analysis:

• Research best practices and trends in land use planning
• Develop research and monitoring methods to guage effectiveness of official plan and related implementation tools and recommend improvements where necessary
• Review and analyze development applications for compliance with Official Plan policies

Provincial, Regional & Local Initiatives:

• Respond to or participate in initiatives led by the Provincial, Regional, or other local governments that affect land use planning; make recommendatios that align with the City's Official Plan
• Attend meetings, represent the City's interests, and make recommendations to senior staff and management as appropriate

Ontario Land Tribunal (OLT):

• Support the City Clerk in the preparation of records that are required to be forwarded to the OLT
• Prepare materials and evidence for hearings, and the resolution of appeals as directed
• Attend OLT hearings, as requested.

Customer Service:

• Respond to public enquiries on a range of planning matters via phone, email, and in-person
• Act as a technical resource for other planning staff on enquiries related to the interpretation of the Official Plan or other ongoing policy projects
• Respond to enquiries from staff in other departments, other government agencies, or elected officials regarding the Official Plan or other ongoing policy projects
• Maintain knowledge of the City's processes in order to respond effectively to enquiries

Education and Experience

• Degree in Urban Planning or related discipline
• You must be eligible for membership in the Ontario Professional Planners Institute (RPP)
• Candidate or Full membership (RPP) is preferred
• Project Management certification is considered an asset
• 4 years experience in land using planning

Required Skills/Knowledge

• Comprehensive knowledge of the Ontario Planning Act, Provincial Plans, and other related legislation
• Proficiency in computer skills (word processing, data management, and presentation/publishing software); some proficiency with design and GIS software is an asset
• Knowledge regarding the practical application of planning legislation, provincial planning documents, local planning documents, and the role of regulatory tools
• Knowledge of planning policy research and analysis, formulation and implementation
• Effective time and project management skills to handle competing priorities with varying deadlines
• Excellent report writing and presentation skills
• Ability to work independantly and on a team
• Some mentoring and coaching skills
• Demonstrates good judgment and makes sound decisions
• Shows commitment to personal growth, development, and leadership opportunities
• Shares new ideas and challenges the status quo
• Proven written and verbal communication skills with the ability to communicate with honesty, openness, respect, and trust
• Takes initiative to participate in a culture of learning, mentoring, and sharing
• Occasional attendance at Council or public meetings outside core business hours
• Contributes to building and being a part of a positive culture
• Demonstrate the City’s corporate values of care, collaboration, courage and service

Leadership Competencies