02/26/2020
Senior Planner (CUPE 13.20)
Description
Basic Function:
To provide professional planning analysis and advice on land use planning matters having regard to the Planning Act, and other related legislation, regulations, policy and planning principles. Responsible for assisting the Director, Planning in reporting and providing advice on land use planning matters. Responsible for independently managing planning projects, conducting studies and preparing and presenting reports for County Council. Undertakes data collection, maintenance and analysis, advises individuals and organized bodies on planning matters, provides evidence at hearings, represents the Planning Department before committees, and directs the work of others in carrying out these duties.
Position Description:
To evaluate development proposals through the use of professional judgement ensuring compliance with the requirements of affected agencies, planning principles, and the interpretation of Provincial and County land use policies and regulations and to prepare planning reports and appropriate recommendations.
To provide guidance and information to County staff, Council, developers and citizens regarding Norfolk County’s planning process, Official Plan policies, Zoning By-law and relevant provincial policy and regulations.
To oversee the day to day management/supervision of major planning development projects, reports and studies as assigned by the General Manager, Development or the Director, Planning Services
Responsible for the processing and consolidation of recommendations related to planning applications including official plan amendments, rezoning applications, site plans, committee of adjustment, subdivisions/condominium and land division
To provide analysis and recommendations on planning applications including official plan and zoning by-law amendments, subdivision, condominium, site plan and Committee of Adjustment applications.
To attend Council and other meetings, as required, to represent the Planning Department on planning interests of Norfolk County
To coordinate and/or participate in County/Divisional initiatives including the periodic review and update of the County’s Official Plan and Zoning By-law(s).
To attend Committee of Adjustment meetings in rotation with other Senior Planners.
To develop site plans under Section 41 of the Planning Act
To maintain and foster corporate goals by ensuring public access to and participation in the planning process.
To prepare Official Plan Amendments and land use by-laws such as zoning, holding, interim control, part lot control, temporary use and site plan for consideration and approval by the County and subsequent approval by the Ministry of Affairs, if required.
To prepare and administer site plan agreements and other such agreements as deemed necessary for related development applications, in accordance with Norfolk County process and standards.
To undertake special projects and other duties as assigned.
Coordinate public meetings pertaining to planning matters
Present studies, policies and applications at Public Meetings, Public Information Sessions, and Committee meetings
To respond to the media on planning matters subject to County media Relations Policy CRS-33.
To act as a Departmental representative / Liaison on Committees as needed.
Mentor, coach and provide leadership to planners, planning students and department co-op students.
Working after hours for Public Meetings, Council Meetings, Committee Meetings, and other Public Open houses on a project by project basis and when deemed necessary to meet deadlines and deal with crises.
Requirements
Knowledge and Experience:
Minimum 4 year Honours post-secondary degree in Land Use Planning or related field; Graduate level Master’s Degree in Planning is preferred but not required
Plus over three up to and including four years’ experience in land use planning
Membership in the Canadian Institute of Planners in good standing and a Registered Professional Planner
GIS experience and quantitative skills/statistical analysis is an asset
Preference will be given to applicants with experience in rural land use planning
Experience testifying before the Local Planning Appeal Tribunal (formerly Ontario Municipal Board) is an asset
Skills and Abilities:
Solid understanding of municipal government with a well-developed ability to interpret and apply policies and regulations of the Planning Act, the Provincial Policy Statement and other applicable municipal and provincial legislation including but not limited to the Condominium Act, the Municipal Act, the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, and the Heritage Act
Thorough knowledge and understanding of relevant planning and land use related legislation and policy.
Thorough understanding of planning policy matters and development approval process.
Comprehension of site development issues including but not limited to Crime Prevention through Environmental Design (CEPTD) principles.
Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to negotiate effectively.
Unquestionable confidentiality regarding topics including Archaeological resources, Species-at-Risk data and development proposals.
The ability to work effectively in a team environment and the ability to work with members of the public.
Well established and refined writing skills with extensive experience in planning report writing with demonstrated ability to convey issues and concepts in a convincing manner
Excellent communication skills and experience in presenting information to individuals as well as larger audiences, including Council, Committees and various public meeting forums.
Excellent evaluation and analysis/judgement skills.
Demonstrated analytical and problem solving skills
Ability to provide credible expert testimony at Local Planning Appeal Tribunal (formerly Ontario Municipal Board) hearings and other legal proceedings.
Commitment to personal and professional development by actively pursuing further planning knowledge and skills
Demonstrated ability to exercise significant discretion and sensitivity
Demonstrated ability to manage multiple files and/or projects with changing priorities and levels of complexity
Demonstrated ability to be service oriented while still ensuring the public interest is served
Valid Ontario driver’s license and access to a reliable vehicle
Computer expertise in corporate standard software (Microsoft Office) and department specific software to data search and entry and to create and modify word processed documents
Must be aware of safe work practices as they relate to job responsibilities and work environment, and have the basic understanding of the Occupational Health and Safety Act
Benefits
Status: Permanent Full Time (2 positions)
Employee Group: CUPE Local 4700
Salary: $45.16 per hour, less $1 for first six months
Division: Development and Cultural Services
Department: Planning
Reports To: Director, Planning
Location: Simcoe
Posting Period: February 18, 2020 - March 6, 2020
The Corporation of Norfolk County is an equal opportunity employer. Accessibility accommodations are available for all parts of the recruitment process. Applicants need to make their needs known in advance.
Successful applicants are required to provide the Employer with a current Criminal Record Check, including a Vulnerable Sector where required and verification of education.
Thank you for your interest in this position. Only those to be interviewed will be contacted.
